SunVee stands for Solar Utility Neighborhood Vehicle. This is a concept for a solar neighborhood electric vehicle.

Solar: Solar-electric panels are integrated with the body to charge batteries which power an electric motor.

Utility: This is a practical vehicle for trips with passengers and cargo as well.

Neighborhood: The range is about 30 miles and the top speed is about 25 miles/hour, making this vehicle useful for within your neighborhood.

Vehicle: This is a vehicle for transforming our consciousness about how we use energy.

History
The concept for this vehicle has been evolving for several years, mostly in the mind of Kelly Hart, who designed and built his first solar vehicle in 1999. Partly as a response to the uncertainties of Y2K, but also for environmental reasons, Kelly put together the "Sunmobile," which is powered both by the sun and by pedalling.

	Kelly is moving several bales of straw on the original Rhoades Car, before it was solarized.

The Sunmobile is based on a commercial four-wheeled, two person, pedalling "bike", called a Rhoades Car. On this platform, Kelly designed and built a solar electric powered vehicle that retains one of the original human powered pedals. The Sunmobile is charged exclusively with the photovoltaic panels mounted as a roof canopy/sun shade. It will travel at up to 30 mph, and has a range of up to 30 miles on a fully charged battery.

	The Sunmobile was featured in the local Fourth of July parade.

At first, the one horse power, 24 volt, permanent magnet electric motor was connected to the bicycle chain derailing system from the passenger side, so that a combination of 36 speeds, or gears, were available for various inclines of travel. This arrangement worked OK, but the bicycle technology was ultimately a bit fragile for the torque demands placed on it by the motor, and it needed frequent repair.

	The box behind Kelly is for batteries; behind that is a cargo box.

	The one hp motor is coupled with a centrifugal clutch to a lawnmower transaxel.

Now the same motor is coupled, with a centriugal clutch, to a riding lawnmower transaxel, with six forward speeds and reverse. The tranaxle powers one of the rear wheels, while the other wheel is powered by the pedals. This arrangement allows the driver to add motive power when desired, either to assist going up hill, to add traction in soft dirt, or to provide physical exercise.

	Handlebars with hand brakes and twist accelerator, mirror, speedometer, headlights, pedals and dashboard adorn the Sunmobile.

There is a twist grip on the handlebars which is used as an accelerator. It feeds information to a motor controller mounted under the chassis, which in turn provides the motor with electicity. An easily visible digital meter shows the voltage, the amps being consumed (or charging the batteries) and accumulated amp/hours. The amp/hour reading is comparable to a gas gauge, showing how much "juice" has been consumed. There is a charge controller that automatically determines when and how much to charge the batteries from the solar panels mounted as a canopy.

The Sunmobile has never been plugged into grid power to charge the batteries, although it certainly could be if desired. All that needs to done to keep it charged is to park it in the sun...anywhere. Hundreds of miles have been driven with absolutely no fossil fuel or pollution created.

	The spare tire is mounted on the rear cargo box.

There are two rear brakes: on the pedalling side is a drum brake, and on the motor side is a disc brake that is part of the transaxel. Both of these are actuated by bicycle style hand levers. Another method of braking is to allow the motor to act as a regenerative brake, which charges the batteries at the same time.

A digital bicycle speedometer/odometer monitors these functions. An automotive horn is very audible. Headlights are mounted for evening or night time use. The seats are padded boat seats. A rear view mirror is attached to the driver's side. The passenger side has a safety bar to grip while moving; it hinges down and out of the way when entering the vehicle.

All of the framework that supports the photovoltaic canopy is made of aluminum. The original chassis framework is 2-inch square channel welded steel. The Sunmobile has never been weighed, but it probably is over 400 lbs. with a set of four deep-cycle marine batteries. The original Rhoades Car was rated to carry about 800 lbs.

	The passenger grip bar is hinged down to easily enter the Sunmobile.

SunVee Concept

	This is a sketch of a possible SunVee design. The photovoltaic panels would be incorporated into the body at three locations.

The concept for the SunVee is similar to the Sunmobile in many respects, but divergent in others. Most of the deficiencies of the Sunmobile would be improved in this evolution.

	This is the front view of the proposed SunVee.

Enclosure: The SunVee would have the option of being completely enclosed for weather protection and security. The chassis and body would be made almost exclusively of molded and colored recycled plastic. Flexible amorphous photovoltaic panels would be permanently fixed to portions of the body. The doors would be removable for fair weather use. The body would be a bit wider than the Sunmobile, with a seat that might accomodate three people. Cargo space behind the seat would be accessable from either the front or from a rear hatch.

Speed and Power: The one hp motor of the Sunmobile would be increased to three hp for the SunVee. This would greatly enhance the acceleration and speed potential, so that it will be able to keep up with traffic on any road posted at 25 mph. The Sunmobile must be geared way down and travels very slowly up hills.

	This is the rear view of the proposed SunVee.

Transmission: An upgrade to a hydraulic transaxle should allow smoother acceleration without shifting gears, no need for a clutch, and quieter operation. The Sunmobile requires frequent shifting and the centrigugal clutch is fairly noisy. Because the SunVee will be noticeably heavier than the Sunmobile, the human-powered pedalling option will be eliminated.

Suspension: The SunVee will have a true suspension, for a more comfortable ride, better cornering and less abuse to the chassis and body. The Sunmobile has no suspension.

Tires: The SunVee will have wider, more substantial tires that are designed for greater weight and durability. The tires on the sunmobile are barely adequate, industrial bike tires.

	Solar-electric panel

Photovoltaics: The charging capacity will be doubled, with four instead of two 75 watt solar panels. This should compensate for the increase in energy use of the larger motor.

Steering: The SunVee will have wheel or butterfly steering, as opposed to the handle bars of the Sunmobile.

Brakes: An upgrade to disc brakes on all four wheels will enable secure and responsive braking. There will also be a parking brake.

Other safety features: The Sunvee will comply with all Federal and state requirements for Low Speed Vehicles. This includes windshield wiping and washing systems, front and rear turn signals, tail and stop lights, three rearview mirrors and seat belts.

Other Solar Electric Vehicles

Here are some small solar electric vehicles that might be considered similar to the Sun Vee. Direct links to the manufacturers are provided for further investigation.

Cruise Car of Sarasota, Florida is now selling, through a variety of dealerships across the U.S., several models of solar electric vehicles. These are all low-speed, street-legal vehicles, suitable for neighborhood or golf course use. Visit www.cruisecarinc.com for more information.

The Classic Cruise Car comes in two, four and six seat versions. Listed range for the four-seat model is 48 miles; maximum speed is 20 mph; the body is composed of steel, plastic and fiberglass; it has headlights, turn signals, tail lights, brake lights, a horn, and rear view mirrors; it can be towed; uses 6 or 8 standard lead/acid golf cart batteries; has a 5.5 hp motor; has 4-wheel hydraulic brakes plus a hand brake; has a spring suspension system;a direct drive motor/rear axle arrangement, and both on-board grid charger and solar panels.

The SunRay is primarily designed as a solar golf car, and comes in two and four-seat models. The two-seat model has a 5.5 hp, 48V motor; uses 6 standard lead/acid golf cart batteries; features a 180W solar panel; has a 55+ miles range; maximum speed of 22 mph; will carry 755 lbs.; has self-adjusting drum brakes; has leaf springs and shock absorbers; has either 8" or 10" tires; and includes a 48V automatic charger. The basic model retails for around $3,500.

The Kudo Cruise Car comes in 2, 4, 6, 8, 11 and 14 seat models. The six-seat model features a 7 hp motor; a range of about 50 miles; a maximum speed of 25 mph; carries 8 standard lead/acid golf cart batteries; will carry 880W solar panel; tempered glass windshield; three rear view mirrors; headlights, turnsignals, and brake lights; front and rear drum pneunamic brakes; a speed change gear box; steel plate suspension; 10" wheels; and a 48V automatic charger. The 14-seat model retails for around $15,000.

They also sell independent Solar Roof Kit conversions to turn any golf cart into a solar vehicle.

Zap Xebra Xero Solar Option Truck
Speed: Up to 40 mph (65 kmph)
Range: Up to 25 miles per charge (40km) * Up to 40 miles per day with opportunity charging; Energy to charge 4.75 kwh
Charger: Onboard 110 Volt AC
Seating: Up to 2 (303 lbs.)
Battery: Lead Acid
Classification: 3 wheel motorcycle (Zero Emission Vehicle)
Dimensions: 11ft 6in Length (290 cm) x 4.66 Width (142 cm) x 5.05 Height (154 cm)
Weight : approx. 1,800 pounds
Options: Upgraded Radio/CD, Color, Leather Seats, Car Cover, Upgraded Batteries
Colors: Ocean Blue, Zebra Flash, Kiwi Green, and Lipstick Red
MSRP: $12,500 See www.zapworld.com for more information.

The folks at www.sunnev.com are offering kits for sale to build your own solar electric vehicle.

The vehicle will seats two people, has a 25 mph top speed with a range of 20 miles. It is water proof, has a 2-speed transmission, lights, horn, brakes, and weighs 350 pounds. It is street legal. The small panel on the hood gives you about 3 miles per day travel on a sunny day. Larger panels on the roof could bring that up to 12 to 16 miles per day.

The kits include: Chassis (welded square tubing); front suspension with two shocks; rack and pinion steering with steering wheel; rear suspension with two shocks; four wheels (26" diameter Kevlar belt tires); drive system (48V DC motor and control with regenitive braking and reverse); inner frame, welded; door assembly with latch and handle; body parts (floor, pans and outside panels made of fiberglass reinforced plastic); floor, seats and dash board; hydraulic disc brakes on all four wheels; speed control with pedal, PWM control, relays and all cables; headlights, taillights, turn signals, switches and wiring harnesses; solar charge controller with ammeter; Built in 110 Volt charger; safety glass windshield and polycarbonate side and rear windows; windshield wiper, seat belts, rearview mirrors, horn and parking brake; detailed assembly manual; wiring diagrams; Certificates of Origin for all major components. The solar panel(s) and batteries are not included. The cost of the kit is $4,500.

The Ecotrike features: Front 20-inch fork with shocks, disk brake, and pivot bearings; Three performance bike or motorcycle high pressure rims and tires, 100 psi max rating; Turn signal lights - right and left; Head light - 50 watt 12V; Front removable aerodynamic panel; Removable door and window - right and left; Front windshield; Pedal crank assembly; Brake cables and levers for front and rear; Mini 5 mm V-belt pulley and V-belt assembly; Generator support brackets; Speed control handle assembly and cable; Horn 12V; Instrument console assembly; Front top cross member "L" shaped attached to solar panel; Rear view mirrors and bracket; Cloth padded chair; Battery hold down assembly and cover; Rear wheel forks with shocks; 20-inch custom wheel forks with wheels and drum brake.

Electric System Motor Drive Components: Solar panels (2 Kyocera 80 watt); Two motor 24 vdc PM 1.6 hp continuous - Permanent Magnet motors; Pedal driven generator - hub motor (24 V dc 6 amps custom); Two motor overload breakers; PWM Controller 300 amp - 24V; Battery charge indicator - digital panel meter modified; Fuse holder blocks (2) for 24V and 12V circuits; Gel cell batteries (2 Gel Star 70 Ahr 12V standard); NiMH batteries 105 Ahr 24V optional); Charge controllers for gel batteries - 1 0 amp; Horn and turn switch assembly button switch and three position toggle; Brake lights and rear turn lights (12V four fixtures); Panel meters volts and ammeter; High current 24V solenoid breaker (250 amp 24V); Brake switch assembly; Seat belt kit - retractable shoulder belt.

This dersign has been patented and, as of July, 2007, the inventor (Andy Schoenberg) has turned over the marketing of the patent to the MILLENNIUM MARKETING GROUP LTD. at www.patentmovers.com. The estimated retail price is $4,500.

The Venturi Eclectic is the latest entry into the marketplace of a somewhat practical solar electric vehicle. It is expected that it will be available as a limited version of 200 vehicles in June, 2007 at a price of around $32,000 US. They hope that by 2009 volume sales will bring the price down to about $20,000 US. They also anticipate marketing a single-seat "ultilitarian" version.

Here are some of the specs for this vehicle: Three seats; 16 kW Asynchronous motor; 1:10 speed reduction; hydride metal nickel 72V battery (liquied cooled) provides 100 Amphours and has an estimated 10 year life; regenerative braking; can be recharged in 5 hours from 16A grid power; 2.5 sqm of photovoltaic cells (yield 14%) provide 330W, with an estimated solar range of 7 km/day; aluminum/composite chassis with steel engine cradle; McPherson suspension; 4 disc brakes; 2.86 m length, 1.85m width, 1.75m height, 350 kg weight without passengers; 50 km range; 50 km/hr. top speed; optional wind turbine to enhance renewable energy generation. See www.venturi.fr for more information.

The Venturi Astrolab is what they consider their high-performance solar-electric commuter car. They expect these to become available in January, 2008 at a price of about $122,000!

Here are some of the specs: two seats in tandem for better balance on the road; 16 kW Asynchronous motor; 1:7 speed reduction; hydride metal nickel 72V battery (liquied cooled) provides 100 Amphours and has an estimated 10 year life; can be recharged in 5 hours from 16A grid power; central carbon body with front and rear units in aluminium; 3.6 sqm of photovoltaic cells (yield 21%) 600W average solar contribution: 18 km/day; McPherson suspension; 4 disc brakes; 3.8 m length, 1.84m width, 1.2m height, 280 kg weight without passengers;110 km range; 120 km/hr. top speed. See www.venturi.fr for more information.

Here is one of the few Solar Electric NEV's that has been developed for sale so far. It is called the Solar Bug and has the following features:
Body: Light weight composite
Weight: 650 pounds
Top Speed: 25mph (NEV law limitations)
Range: 30 miles+
Batteries: 4-12 Volt
Reserve/Headlight Battery:12 volt
Battery Charger Main Batteries: 4 bank (4-6 hours complete charge ˜ 65¢ per charge)
Regenerative Braking
Solar power: (2-7) 10-watt solar panels with independent PWM charger
Tires: 12”-60 PSI
Drive: Chain
Safety: DOT approved batteries Roll bar and seat belts

I was informed that for a limited time they would take orders for delivery in 2007 at an $8,500 price. See their website for more information...freedrive-ev.com . If you should buy one of these, please tell them that you heard about it through SunVee.com.

Ambient Light Vees are describes at www.solarvehicles.org where Jeff Dekzty and Will Scully have assembled lots of information about their experiments with a variety of model solar vehicles, including some rudimentary plans that might help you conceive of and build your own. These Canadians are true crusaders for moving beyond the stranglehold of the internal combustion engine. They consider themselves "Light Riders".

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The Quaranta is a concept hybrid gas/electric vehicle with solar assist for the electric portion made by Italdesign Giugiaro . The wide black roof is a solar panel that charges the batteries and provides energy for the climate control system. Giugiaro says the all-wheel-drive, mid-engined car accelerates from zero to 62 mph (100 kph) in 4.05 seconds and tops out at 155 mph. This is a three-seater sports car that will cost lots of money, if it ever gets to market!

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	Queen's University's eighth solar vehicle, the "Mirage".

For many years schools, universities and corporations have been making truly solar-electric vehicles to enter into the many competitions that happen around the world. The rationale for all of the money and effort that goes into these creations is often that the technology will trickle down to products for consumers; yet there is still no commercially available solar-electric untilitarian vehicle on the market. The race cars are fast and efficient, but usually carry only one person, have very limited cargo space and are rather ungainly to drive. SunVee will change that when it is available!

Other Electric Vehicles

	Lee Iacocca's NEV, the luxury Lido 4-passenger sedan.

The Lido is a Neighborhood Electric Vehicle. It can travel
up to 25 mph; has a 40 mile range, with a 6-8 hour recharge time; DC motor with rear wheel drive; rack and pinion steering; 13-inch wheels and tires; hydraulic brakes; automotive lighting (head, tail and brake lights); 3-point anchored front seat restraints / reap lap belts for extra security; automotive glass for safety and clarity; dual rear view mirrors; and is available in three styles: 2-passenger, 4-passenger and Runabout Utility. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price is roughly $10,000 for the base model. More information is available at lidomotors.com, but last time I tried this link the page wouldn't display, which makes me think that this company may have folded.

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	Myers NmG three-wheeled electric car.

Myers Motors NmG (No more Gas) is not a low speed vehicle; the top speed is 70 mph! It is a single occupant, three-wheeled electric car that runs on 156 volts DC (thirteen 12-volt batteries in series); has an onboard battery charger; fully integrated electronics system; 1350 lbs curb weight; 72-inch wheel base; 57 inches vehicle height; 30-60 mile range; price is about $15,000-$17,000. More information is available at www.myersmotors.com.

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	Commerter Car Corp. is introducing the Tango.

The Tango is a fairly high-performance EV, that weighs in at over 3,000 lbs, despite its compact body...partly because it carries from 19 to 20 batteries. It features two motors, one on each rear wheel. The range is listed at between 40 and 160 miles, depending on the choice of battery pack. The top speed is 150 mph! They are taking orders now for production models, which will cost between $18,000 and $108,000 US. More information can be found at www.commutercars.com.

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	Global Electric Motor's two-seat GEM car.

Global Electric Motor's GEM car is a true NEV, with a top speed of 25 mph. Curb weight is 1100 lb. with batteries; length: 96.5 inches; height: 69.5 inches; width: 55 inches; 72-volt shunt GE motor; front wheel drive direct-coupled Dana Spicer differential; GE solid state controller; 10" two-ply street and turf rated tires; six Trojan 12-volt deep-cycle batteries; on-board charger; four wheel automotive-style hydraulic brakes; independent front wheel suspension with two coil spring/shock units; rear suspension is trailing arm with two coil spring/shock units; automotive rack and pinion steering; aluminum welded space frame; structural composite and thermo-plastic body; seats two occupants; automotive-design 3-point safety belts; quartz halogen headlights, front and rear turn signals, high mount rear brake and taillights; automotive safety glass windshield with wiper; rearview & dual exterior mirrors. A four-seat model is available. Price is about $7,000 to $9,000. More information is available at gemcar.com.

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	Ford Motor Company's two-passenger Th!nk NEV.

Ford Motor Company's Th!nk comes in both two and four passenger models. Range is up to 30 miles; has a 72-volt battery, 5,000-watt DC motor; charging time is 4 to 8 hours; front and rear hydraulic with coil-over spring shocks; regenerative braking; hydraulic four-wheel drum brakes; drive mode-25 MPH turf mode-15 MPH; gear ratio is set at a constant 10.35:1; automotive-style headlights and tail lights; turn signal lamps; hazard lights; reverse lights; rearview and sideview mirrors; automotive-type glazed windshield; windshield washer/wiper; state-of-charge and low-battery indicator; digital speed display; rear license plate illuminator; odometer with trip meter; on-board charger.
Two-passenger model: length: 104 in; width: 58.1 in; height: 69 in; wheel base: 68 in; weight: 1350 lbs; payload: 600 lbs.
Four-passenger model: length: 114 in; width: 58.1 in; height: 69 in; wheel base: 78 in; weight: 1,400 lbs; payload: 1,000 lbs. Price range is about $8,000 to $10.000. Apparently, Ford Motors has abandoned this!

	Gorilla NEV.

Gorilla NEV
36 volt, 20-25 mph version.
Three 12-volt batteries and charger included.
Includes all required safety equipment for legality in California and 32 other states. $5495.00 More information is available at gorillavehicles.com.

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	Nevco's Gizmo.

Nevco's Gizmo is an LSV, with a top speed of 40 mph. Vehicle weight with batteries is from 660 lbs. to 860 lbs., with a payload of 250-500 lbs.; storage capacity 10 cubic feet; dimensions 4' wide x 4.5' high x 8' long; motor 12 peak HP series DC; deepcycle lead acid batteries; 48V system; chassis steel tube truss; body fiberglass; transmission chain drive, single speed; brakes hydraulic disc, hand actuated; range 45 miles standard per charge; recharge power source standard 110V AC outlet. Base configuration with 45 mile battery pack is $8,650 plus shipping. More information available at nevco.com.

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	Nissan's Hypermini concept EV.

Nissan's Hypermini is a concept car, yet to be introduced. It would be a two passenger EV (electric vehicle) that can go 60 miles per hour and travel about 75 miles on a single charge. Dimensions (L x W x H) 2,500 x 1,475 x 1,550 mm; wheelbase 1,790 mm; track (front / rear) 1,255 / 1,260; neodynium magnet synchronous motor, with maximum output 20 kW at 15,000 rpm; lithium-ion batteries; inductive charging system; rear-wheel 2WD; suspension (front) independent struts; suspension (rear) independent parallel-link struts; brakes (front / rear) ventilated discs with anti-lock system; tire size 185 x 55R x 14. Price to be determined. More information is available at nissandriven.com.

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	India's Reva EV.

Made in India, the Reva is an EV that can travel at about 35 mph. The power pack consists of eight 6 Volt EV type lead acid batteries. The dent proof body panels are made of high impact ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene)". It features side impact beams, a specially developed steel frame and electronic regenerative braking. The suspension consists of McPherson strut in front and coil spring at the rear; two door hatchback; payload is two adults + two children (227 kg); city driving range is 80 km; charge time is
80 % charge in 3 hours; 100% in 6 hours; high torque, separately excited DC motor, 13kW peak; microprocessor-based battery management system with an intelligent fuel gauge; 48 volt, 200 amp-hr EV tubular lead acid batteries; Dimensions: length
2638 mm, width 1324 mm, height 1510 mm, wheel base 1710 mm; curb weight 754 kg. More information is available at revaindia.com.

The Tesla Electric sports car combines basic lithium ion battery technology with their own unique battery pack design that is light, durable, recyclable, and it is capable of delivering enough power to accelerate the Tesla Roadster from 0 to 60 mph in under 4 seconds. And the battery stores enough energy for the vehicle to travel about 220 miles without recharging, with a 135 mpg equivaence. It has a two-speed transmission. For more information see www.teslamotors.com

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The Business Plan outlined below was intially created in 2002 and nothing substantial has occured since then. At this point Kelly Hart has moved on to other interests and is offering this concept as an example of how a similar business might proceed; he is no longer interested in being a principle designer or partner in the business described below. Kelly is willing to answer questions regarding his experience with the Sunmobile or regarding his ideas for the SunVee. There are no products or services related to solar vehicles for sale at this time.

Marketing Plan
SunVee would be substantially an internet-based company. Much of the customer relations, ordering, parts dissemination, and problem troubleshooting would be done on-line. National advertising through other media would direct customers to the sunvee.com website.

Customers who have bought a SunVee would be given the opportunity to make a substantial commission on sales to other interested persons who have learned about it through this contact. In this way, the customers would become the sales force who would demonstrate and promote the vehicle. Of course the SunVee will generally sell itself because of its value, utility and styling.

The fact that there would not necessarily be retailers, with enormous overhead, would allow very competitive pricing, and generous commissions to agents. Once the ball got rolling, this could be a very effective way of selling the vehicle.

There would be a main factory that assembles the various components. This factory would best be located in the central United States, adjacent to a railroad siding. Components could be delivered by rail, and the completed SunVees could be shipped via rail to a network of regional distribution points. These distribution points would not need to be warehouses; simple fenced enclosures would suffice to keep them, since they are completely weather-proof. In fact, if they are kept outside, the batteries will be fully charged and the vehicle ready to drive.

To get SunVees to customers who have bought them, a regional employee, working on a commissioned basis and driving his own vehicle, would make deliveries directly to the customer's home and would complete the transaction. This could be done with a trailer that carried several SunVees, towed by a van or pickup truck. An economical route could be calculated in advance to make several deliveries during one trip out.

The basic SunVee is so simple mechanically that regular auto mechanics should be able to make repairs. Guidance for servicing would be available at sunvee.com, or by phone. Of course there would be a thorough owner's service manual as well.

The Market

	Ford Motor Company's two-passenger Th!nk NEV.

Small neighborhood electric vehicles (NEV's) have been gaining popularity throughout the United States, and in other parts of the world. There are now five companies that manufacture and sell NEV's in the United States. None of these employ solar-electric technology; because of this SunVee would enjoy a unique niche. Since SunVee would be the first utilitarian solar vehicle in the market, it would have considerable prestige as an originator.

NEV's, also known as Low Speed Vehicles (LSV's) can legally be driven on any street with a posted speed limit no greater than 35 mph. This means that most urban environments, and many small, rural communities would be appropriate locales for the SunVee.

Because the SunVee is completely pollution free, it will appeal to the wide range of people who are concerned about our environment; many of them have been waiting for a practical solar car for many years. As gasoline and energy costs escalate in the future, the SunVee will become even more attractive, because solar energy is free. Batteries will need replacement perhaps every five years, but that is a comparatively small expense. In addition, thanks to recent legislation, NEV owners are now eligible for a federal tax credit.

	Solar electric panel.

Ease of charging will also attract customers. Unlike all other NEV's available, the SunVee does not need to be plugged in to be charged. The solar-electric panels and the charge controller take care of the batteries in the best possible manner, keeping them charged and ready to go, but not overcharging them. The owner can simply park the SunVee in the sun and the vehicle will take care of itself; there is no need to ponder whether it is necessary to plug it in or not. Of course if it is a cloudy day and the owner wants to charge the vehicle, it can be plugged into ordinary house current to do so.

Styling
The shape of an NEV is free to take many forms, since it is not constrained by the conventional Internal Combustion Engine's requirements for space, air, water, oil, etc. The electric motor itself is very small. The battery compartment is best kept low in the vehicle for optimal center of gravity, so it can be under the rear storage bay. The shape of the SunVee will be somewhat constrained by the need to incorporate the photovoltaic panels into the body. Amorphous cell panels allow simple curved solar panels to be part of the vehicle. SunVee could be daringly bold or perhaps retro in styling. Eventually there could be several different models to choose from.

Business Concept
The company manufacturing the SunVee will be part of the Neighborhood Electric Vehicle Industry. The target market for the SunVee is all people living in urban or semi-rural environments where neighborhood use of vehicles on streets posted at no greater than 35 MPH is possible. The SunVee differs from its competitors in that is completely charged by just parking it in the sun. Important characteristics of the SunVee include: no fuel costs, no pollution, no use of fossil fuel, quiet operation, and it is fun to drive! The company making the SunVee will become a significant player in the movement toward safe, sustainable, pollution-free transportation.

Current Situation
At this point, a business concept has been refined and an extensive plan for taking this concept to market has been developed. Initial equity investors or partners are now being sought.

Key Success Factors
There are several key factors that are particularly important for success.
1. Initial testing and proof of concept has been accomplished.
2. There is an obvious need for non-polluting vehicles, both from consumer demand and governmental mandate.
3. Uniqueness of styling and function will set the SunVee aside from the competition.
4. The marketing strategy for extremely low overhead will be a decided advantage.

Financial Needs
At this time $110,000 in equity investment is being sought. It will be used for the intital phase of establishing a corporation responsible for manufacturing and marketing the SunVee and creating a replicable prototype SunVee. It is projected that this phase I of development will take about 12 months to accomplish. The money will primarily be used to pay for personnel and material to accomplish the creation of this prototype, as well as to establish the corporation. We would anticipate going public within perhaps five years, allowing investors to recoup their investment plus a negotiated return on that investment.

Vision Statement
The vision for SunVee is to provide a significant number of neighborhood solar cars for people in North America so that they might enjoy driving a classy, utilitarian car that is completely non-polluting and does not depend on fossil fuels. Distinctive characteristics of the company will be that much of it is internet based, without the overhead of sales rooms, massive corporate headquarters, and an extensive sales staff. The SunVee will differ from its competitors in that the vehicle will be charged with solar electric panels incorporated into the body of the car. The SunVee will fulfill the strong desire among many people to drive a totally eco-friendly car. Our company will be recognized as a leader in the field of Neighborhood Electric Vehicles, with the distinction of of being the first, and possibly the only, one that runs completely on the energy from the sun.

Milestones and Phases of Equity Investment
Important milestones for launching this business are:
1. Presentation to investors for Phase I begins with the creation and promotion of this website. (Current)
2. Financing for Phase I completed Dec. 2002.
3. SunVee prototype completed Dec. 2003
4. Financing for Phase II completed by March, 2004
5. Management and manufacturing teams in place June, 2004
6. Manufacturing plant established and begins production August, 2004
7. Financing for Phase III completed by Feb. 2005
7. Regional sales representatives in place by Feb. 2005
8. Major marketing efforts are initiated March, 2005
9. First SunVee ships April, 2005

Overall Strategy
Our strategy is to adopt innovative and leading-edge techniques in all aspects of running our business. Being a younger, smaller company than our competitors, we will have a natural advantage of being able to innovate. We have much less invested than our competitors in the past way of doing business, so we have little to lose and much to gain by doing business differently. We want to particularly be recognized as using innovative ideas to directly benefit our customers, such as new policies on pricing, service and marketing. But we also want to try innovative techniques for running our business better internally.

Marketing Strategies
Our basic marketing strategy is to excite customers about driving a SunVee through conventional advertising and through the example of those who have already purchased one. Our marketing efforts will emphasize the fact that the SunVee is complely free of fuel costs and pollution. The message that we want to send to customers is that not only is the SunVee fun to drive but it is also good for the environment and their pocketbook. We will primarily direct our marketing toward urban drivers and small, rural community drivers. We will equally rely upon our advertising and commissioned sales by existing owners to drive sales ahead. Key differences between our marketing program and those of our principal competitors is that the standard automotive show room with its often overly persuasive sales force will be replaced by enthusiastic owners who love their cars and a highly informative and effective internet-based sales program.

We will closely integrate all of our marketing and sales efforts to project a consistent image of our company. The image we will present of the SunVee is one of great fun to drive, ease of refueling (park it in the sun), extreme economy (no fuel cost), and evironmental responsibility (no pollution nor use of fossil fuel). We will emphasize these factors in our sales advertising by showing people driving with pleasure, while bypassing gas stations, ATM's, and smog test stations.

Sales Tactics
Our primary sales method will be a combinaiton of an informative website with an easily navigated process for commiting to purchase a SunVee, and enthusiastic and motivated prior customers willing to demonstrate their SunVee to prospective customers for substantial commissions on eventual sales. A particularly important aspect of our sales process is assuring customer satisfaction, so that they want to promote the SunVee. We address this by making a superior product that will basically sell itself. Our sales tactics differ from our principle competitors in that we don't rely on expensive showrooms, paid sales staff and wholesale/retail pricing structures.

Advertising
The message or theme that our advertising will deliver is that the SunVee is fun, cost effective, easy to use, and evironmentally responsible. The primary advertising vehicles that we will use are the internet and television. Secondary advertising vehicles that we will use are national magazines and newspapers.

Promotions/Incentives
We will promote our business through our website, www.sunvee.com. On this site we will offer product information, service information, basic information about our business, suggestions on how to use our product effectively, a wide range of information of interest to potential customers including information on how to order a SunVee and lots of pictures of all aspects of the SunVee. Also there could be a list of commissioned agents in all localities who have expressed an interest in being listed at the website. We will promote our website on all of our literature, by listing our web address in our advertising, in major search engines on the web, by getting free links with related websites and by advertising on the web.

We will encourage anyone who purchases a SunVee to become a commissioned agent, thereby generating an ever-expanding sales force who are enthusiastic about demonstrating the SunVee, and gaining significant sales commissions.

Publicity
The main purpose of our publicity is to increase the general awareness of the SunVee. Our publicity is also intended to emphasize our competitive advantages. The primary publicity vehicles that we will target are the web and national television. Secondary publicity vehicles that we will target are national magazines and newspapers. We will pitch the media by mailing and e-mailing press packets, arranging interviews, etc.

We plan on holding a press conference to announce the introduction of the SunVee. We will announce this press conference widely, and give special invitations to members of the media. We expect that the SunVee will become significant news and will generate much free publicity.

Trade Shows, Etc.
We will occasionally feature the SunVee at appropriate trade shows, consumer shows and conventions. Our objective in attending these shows will be to portray our firm as a major player in the Neighborhood Electric Vehicle Industry, provide demonstrations and keep up industry contacts.

Human Resources Plan
We recognize that human resources are an extremely important asset. Hence we will screen new applicants very carefully including in-person interviews and reference checks. We will review each employee's performance regularly, and when possible promote from within. Our salaries and benefit packages will be competitive with those offered by other firms in our area.

Our human resources strategy will be to treat all employees with respect, to create a positive and productive environment, to be fair and consistent, and to involve employees in decision-making as much as possible.

New staff will be added as needed to accomplish the goals of each phase of development. Our recruitment strategies for identifying candidates and hiring individuals to fill these positions will be based on a combination of referrals, classified advertising in local newspapers or other web-based methods.

Product Delivery
We will control costs by getting competitive bids on major purchases, arranging for long-term delivery contracts and watching overhead costs closely.We will insure that our quality is high by having specific standards that must be adhered to, selecting high quality vendors, having a rigorous hiring process, communicating to all employees that quality is our first priority, and conducting customer surveys.

We believe that maintaining excellent relationships with our suppliers is an important part of successfully delivering our product. We will pay our suppliers within terms; we will treat their sales people and customer service people with respect; we will maintain a relationship with key executives at our core suppliers; and we will let our suppliers know that we appreciate their work. Because of these steps, our suppliers will be willing to really go to bat for us when we need their extra help.

Financial Projections
The following projections are based on these assumptions: Sales commissions will amount to 10% of gross sales (5% for agents and 5% for delivery people), the actual cost of sales (including freight) will amount to 25% of gross sales, the payroll tax rate is 13% and there will be no sales on credit (except credit cards).

Phase I (2003) would involve consultants or contracted work only, no employees.

Phase II (2004) would invlove hiring a Manager ($40/hr.), Secretary ($20/hr.), Accountant ($25/hr.), Inventory person ($20/hr.), Shop Foreman ($25/hr.), 5 Mechanics ($20/hr.) and 5 Assembly persons ($15/hr.).

Phase III (2005) would add to the personnel a Webmaster/clerk ($25/hr.), a Technical Support person ($25/hr.), a Publicist ($25/hr.) and would increase the Assembly Team to 20 people for the last half year.

(2006) would increase the Assembly Team in increments to 30 people.

(2007) would see a doubling of the Assembly Team to 60 people, with the addition of an Assistant Manager ($30/hr.) and general raises for all of the key employees.

It is assumed that 10 people can assemble one SunVee each day and that each SunVee will have a retail price of $10,000.

Pofit and Loss Projections:

Cash Flow Projection:

Balance Sheet Projection:

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Contact

For more information about the SunVee concept, contact Kelly Hart, P.O. Box 632, Crestone, CO 81131.