Vectrix lives again, has lithium future

Saturday, November 28, 2009

Vectrix lives again, has lithium future

Posted by SharK at 9:57 AM

Vectrix VX-1 - Click above for high-res image gallery

It appears that Vectrix has just about sorted itself out and could soon officially declare itself out of bankruptcy and on the straight and narrow lithium-lined path. According to a press release we found reproduced on the V is for Voltage forum (but could not find on the websites of the companies involved) GoldPeak Batteries has scooped up "New Vectrix" and changed its name to back to its original Vectrix Corporation. The new owners had a partial stake in the company previously and were, indeed, the supplier of their nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) battery. If things proceed as hoped, the new company should have a bright, lithium-powered future.

If you haven't figured it out yet (dude, you're slow!), the Vectrixes of the future will come will a lithium iron phosphate (LiFePo₄) battery that should improve range and eliminate some of the problems buyers have had with the original chemistry. There have been reports of problems balancing voltages within the cells and shortened range and battery life due to operation in high ambient temperatures. Not only will the new machines be packing lithium power but the company hopes to offer an upgrade kit for existing bikes. Product lineup plans for 2010 have also been clarified with the VX-1 getting something of a makeover and two smaller models in the works. Like their larger sibling, the new runabouts will also have lithium batteries and be the electric equivalents of a 50 cc and 150 cc scooter. We now await the official announcement from Vectrix and will also seek to learn whether there is any truth to a rumor about a possible TTXGP appearance from the re-born company. Purported press release after the break.

Gallery: Vectrix Electric Scooter