Get Your Hands On A Solar-Powered Prototype EV From Bankrupt Lightyear Automotive | Carscoops
Lightyear Automotive had once promised to revolutionize EVs with its first production model that was priced at $236,000
9 hours ago
by Brad Anderson
Several prototypes of the innovative electric vehicle (EV) from Holland’s Lightyear Automotive have surfaced on a local online marketplace, just months after the company filed for bankruptcy shortly after beginning production
The Lightyear 0 came to life following years of research and development. Not only did it have solar panels that meant it could go up to seven months between charges but it was also the world’s most aerodynamic production car. It also had an eye-watering $236,000 sticker price. We suspect these prototypes will sell for significantly less than that.
Read: Lightyear 0 Becomes Most Aerodynamic Production Car On Earth
Two of the prototypes appear to be near-production examples and at the time of writing, bidding on them at the online marketplace Troostwijkauctions that was first discovered by Jalopnik had reached €15,000 ($16,605) and €6,400 ($7,085) respectively. The first is finished in an intriguing example of matte brown and the listing notes that it was used as a static show car and can only be driven at up to 20 km/h (12 mph). Additionally, it can only be charged with a laptop. The second prototype is painted silver and no mention is made as to whether or not it is functional.
At least four other fully-built prototypes are available to purchase, two of which are still sporting camouflage across their bodywork. A handful of other Lightyear 0 prototypes in various stages of assembly can be purchased, but none of them are functional.
It’s not just prototypes that have been listed for sale. Various different Lightyear battery packs can be bought, as can a complete electric powertrain, and various electric motors. There are also hundreds of different parts that are boxed up and available, including seats. Then there’s all of the things that you need to run a business, like desks, computer monitors, an office seating area, conference tables, and chairs.
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