All electric Coda Sedan to arrive in 2010

A new electric car that will be manufactured in China will be available in the US begining 2010. The car is being brought to the US by Southern California automobile maker Code Automotive and is expected to be priced around $45,000. The 5 passenger, all electric car is expected to have a range of around 100 miles before recharge is required. The design of the car is based on an existing gas powered chinese vehicle called Hafei Saibao 3 which sells for considerably less. Coda does not plan to have dealerships and rather wants to take a direct sales approach which could lead to challenges for servicing the vehicles.

The car is powered by a lithium ion battery that can be charged by plugging it into a regular electric outlet and takes about 10-12 hours for a full charge. With a top speed of around 80 miles per hour and 0 to 60 in 8 seconds, the vehicle is capable of driving at highway speeds. Chevy Volt which is also expected to be launched nationwide in 2010 will be a direct competitor to the Coda sedan. Coda sedan buyers will be eligible to take advantage of the $7,500 tax credits.