The shape is the main reason for its unorthodox seating position. Like the classic German, the Jetcar carries two occupants in tandem as in a jet fighter trainer - hence the aeronautical name. Entrance to the cockpit comes via side doors, which cut deep into the car's frame. Surrounded by curved glass and wafer thin pillars, it is doubtful there's a car on the market with better forward and side-to-side visibility. Looking rearward, however, is a totally different matter. Only a tiny peephole is offered to see what's coming up from behind - possibly a problem if left lane hogging on the autobahn.
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| With an estimated fuel economy figure of between 2.5 and 3.5 L/100 km, the Jetcar might just be the most economical car to grace the planet. (Photo: Jetcar) |
But in North America its 160 km/h top speed should be ample to not impede faster motorists, as the Jetcar's 800cc 3-cylinder turbodiesel engine, sleek aerodynamics and light weight should contribute to happily move it along.
It also might just be the most economical car to grace the planet. With an estimated fuel economy figure of between 2.5 and 3.5 L/100 km, only the prototype VW '1L' car - that incidentally looks very similar - can top it.
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| With a production run of 100 hand built cars, the Jetcar offers an interesting alternative when commuting through Europe. (Photo: Jetcar) |
But unlike the Volkswagen, which was only developed as a study, the Jetcar will go into limited production. For 2004, it's expected that the company will produce roughly 100, each built by hand.
But while assembled in-house the Jetcar makes extensive use of components featured in the Smart City Coupe (DaimlerChrysler). Not only is the engine sourced directly from the tiny European car, but the wheels, seats and much of the interior.
While no plans have been announced to sell it in North America, the Jetcar offers an interesting alternative to commuting in Europe, putting a twist into metropolitan transportation.