The four-door, five-passenger Sedan is a pure BEV, using a lithium-iron phosphate battery with 134-hp and an impressive 221 lb-feet of torque to achieve a 90-120 mile range. Speed is electronically limited to 80-mph. The battery system, governed by CODA’s signature battery management system, can be charged with a standard 110v charger or optional 220v charger; the 220v charger will fully charge a battery in under six hours. The battery pack is covered by an 8-year, 100,000 mile warranty. CODA estimates that driving 100 miles should cost approximately $3 with average electricity costs.
CODA expects the Sedan to garner four- and five-star class ratings in U.S. crash test ratings. Six airbags, a collapsible steering column, occupant detection system, knee blocks and other active/passive safety systems make the Sedan a veritable mobile fortress for drivers and passengers alike.
Amenities are sufficient. An infotainment touchscreen interface is the technophilic medium between driver and car, and a hands-free phone is the medium between driver and people. A GPS, GreenScreen real-time fuel gauge, Emergency Roadside Assistance and a radio/CD sound system with USB/MP3 capability are the cherries on top.
The MSRP for the Sedan is an astonishingly high $44,900, with an average of $37,400 after rebates and $32,400 for California state residents. A Sedan can be reserved with a $499 refundable deposit.
The CODA Sedan is a step forward, but not a giant leap of progress. But progress it still is, and CODA will likely sell its target 10,000 vehicles in 2011. And that, hopefully, is just the beginning.
