The Veritas RS III Roadster Hybrid Feature unleashed the beastly Veritas RS III Roadster just over a year ago, and now the tiny sports car manufacturer is adding hybrid drive to its V10-powered retro sled – right before it releases a full electric version and a coupe.
The Veritas RS III Roadster Hybrid looks exactly like it's petrol-powered counterpart, right down to its BMW-sourced 507-horsepower V10, dual cockpit and carbon fiber/kevlar shell. What's different is the addition of a 105 kW motor mounted between the front axles, netting a total of over 600 hp. The lithium ion battery pack and electric motor tacks on an around 500 pounds, bringing the curb weight to a still svelte 2,821 pounds. But despite the extra weight, Vermot AG claims that the 0-62 mph time is actually down to 3.1 seconds (from 3.2) and tops out at 205 mph (10 mph down from the original).
What that means is that you will still get to enjoy the sound and feel of the 507-horsepower BMW-built V10 engine in the standard RSIII, but with a little extra punch from an electric motor. Unfortunately, the lithium ion battery pack and electric motor adds an extra 500 pounds (226 kg), bringing the curb weight to a still svelte 2,821 pounds (1,280 kg).
Despite the extra weight, the Veritas RS III Roadster Hybrid is a little faster to 62 mph (100 km/h) than the standard car it is based on, while also offering a top speed of 205 mph (330 km/h).
More importantly, car's lithium-ion battery will allow the plug-in hybrid to travel up to 50 km (31 miles) on electricity alone. Furthermore, since the electric motor powers the front wheels, the RSIII has a de facto all-wheel drive system which should ensure safe and predictable handling.
