Yeah, this is my biggest hang up with the vehicle. I know going at speed will prevent a lot of the water from hitting the occupants, at least the driver, but side winds or being stopped at traffic lights would suck. I guess getting full motorcycle rain gear would be another option, but doors would be more welcome!
@@haraldriegler6000 Great! Hopefully there are photos of the solution because I’m unlikely to drop $18,000 without being fully informed of what I would be getting. I’ve seen other vehicles that had doors that only went half way up etc.
@@mrdsn189 you can find them online (e.g. on the arcimoto site in their "all-weather" promo video, but you can also see them in their configurator. Currently they only go half way so there are no windows. Personally I own a Renault Twizy, and that's got similar half-height open doors as the Arcimoto . It works well, you don't get wet even in heavy rain. But for the Twizy, the aftermarket soon came up with mountable windows, and I got those immediately, and these plastic windows were what finally turned the little thing from a nice-weather car into an all-year car. I'm in Europe, so in the winter with Snow and all, you really want those windows. If Arcimoto doesn't offer any, my guess is that if the vehicle is successful (which I think it will be, because it's great in many ways), aftermarket suppliers will definitely end up offering some. Unfortunately there's no way to buy an Arcimoto out of Europe yet, but I'd get one if it was possible.
Don't forget the felimoto. Some cats are up for a field trip😸. But broadly, I think it's a good idea for the back seat to be easily convertable into extra cargo. Probably, not simple engineering to do it safely and flexibly
As an aerodynamicist I can say that if the Arcimoto had side doors/curtains that fully enclosed the cabin, the freeway range would increase substantially, and I think it can be done without screwing up the wide open feeling of riding on the outside of the vehicle that makes the Arcimoto such a gas to ride. The key in my opinion would be a modified version of the California doors. The California half doors would help clean up the aerodynamics a bit by themselves (besides keeping splashes from soaking your shoes). My modification would be to add an empty frame to the doors around the top that lays against the roll bars. Done right I don't think the top from would even be noticeable when the doors are closed, and wouldn't interfere with the wide open feeling The top frame would have a zipper track that a heavy gauge vinyl panel could zip into to fully enclose the vehicle. Around town and in clear weather the curtains would be completely removed, rolled up and store inside the rear storage box. When you know you are going to be going on the freeway or on cold/rainy/snowy/all-of-the-above days, it would only take a few minutes to zip the curtains in. Since the curtains are attached to the doors, they wouldn't interfere with getting in and out of the vehicle. If with the curtains in more ventilation is needed I have an idea how that could be done with just a couple of plastic cylinders that slide in and out through ports in the side windscreen, but this post is already long enough. What do you think about this idea?
Owners do not report any difference in range with doors. In this weight class, the weight of doors matters too. I gained 2mph on my top end which is now 84mph since I removed the 65 pounds of weight of the rear seat, harness and foot mats. This was confirmed by two Arcimoto technicians who noticed the difference in pep. I closed in the rear with HD cargo nets.
I didn't even notice the side of the road at first, I was thinking, huh they have the same road signs as the UK it's almost like a little bit of home over there 😄.
It all just looks wrong to be driving on the right hand side.. I can't get over that.. So everything else is just lost in that background minor panic of 'She's on the wrong side of the road!'
Thank you for a great ride-along! This has been the best “review” I’ve seen on the FUV (and from a trusted source!). I was really interested in the highway performance as my work commute is a mix of city and highway speeds. Now I will just need to be patient and wait for It to come down to the target price!
Probably the best edited, best sounding, most comprehensive review I've seen from this channel! And, obviously, your driving skills, Nikki, are impeccable. Thank you for this content. I need to test drive an Arcimoto.
Like the on the road impressions as they were happening. Grew up on snowmobiles and this reminds me riding those but for year round use. Waiting for the price to come down a bit.
Can confirm - top speed is "over 80." :-P (Although range drops like a stone when going that fast. The battery percent-meter (about 1% per mile in the city) starts counting down so quickly, you'd think a SpaceX Falcon 9 was about to launch!)
Bullseye! Your review was spot on. Arcimoto has a winner and seeing all the FUN you seem to be having with it, I'd dare say that it's appropriately named.
This whole area looks uncannily like many regions in southern Germany that I travelled through, in terms of topography and vegetation. I hope we see FUVs in Europe soon.
LOL to the Twizzy footage @17:32 ... I was trying to figure out where there was left-lane driving in the Portland area until I realized you weren’t in the Arcimoto 🤣
I wish she had included more forward facing footage from the Arcimoto. I'm always happy to see Nicki's face, but the view out the windscreen would give a better sense of the vehicle.
An outstanding review! Most informative of the Arcimoto but also much better than many other in-depth EV reviews I've seen. She's answered most of my questions, as someone who's considering the FUV, if the company survives to sell to my very not "green" fly-over state and if the price comes down. Extensively covered the fun factor, practicality, safely
Doors would absolutely improve highway efficiency. If you think about the fact that it is less than half the weight, roughly half the frontal area, and has almost the same size battery as something like an early Leaf or i3 with similar ranges, cleaning up the aerodynamics should boost highway range beyond those cars.
We rented these in the rain and the front seat didn't get too wet but the passenger did get pretty wet and cold. The heated handlebars and seat make it very rideable during the winter as a commuter. I want one with doors for sure soon.
There are a number of small, quirky commuter / run abouts that should take the motoring world by storm. The FUV looks by far the most finished and well thought out one, and by EV standards not that expensive. Looking forward to them on the UK roads
Thanks for a great review as always! Like in Oregon, our Michigan spring tends to be a bit nippy yet. My family is taking the EV cars today leaving me with my Zero, and I have errands to run. With a temp below freezing and potential black ice, I'm not looking forward to that trip. This could extend that season as well as be a vehicle you just jump into to get some groceries without having to fully gear up. It's quite compelling. From the specs, it looks like the onboard L2 charger is about 3KW. Perhaps that's my biggest issue. Put a 6 KW in there on par with public L2 charging, and it could even go on some minor roads trip.
This is the motorcycle that you'll be happy to have your grandmother riding, when she begrudgingly has to let go of the Indian. And she'll be more than happy to have it as an option, over getting a regular car. I feel that this vehicle has a great future with the rebels that occasionally have to pause.
@@AnonymousFreakYT The minute I saw this thing it took me back to my classic Vespa I rebuild when I was 17, all around fun, I very jealous of your purchase.
I believe the heated seats and grips are standard. If you buy one in Oregon today without half doors or trunk, it is $17,900. With Oregon Clean Energy rebate, it comes down to $15,400. If you are low/moderate income and live in Oregon, we are now talking $12,900 - which is within $1000 of the original target price of $11,900. Just incredible!
Awesome review! Thanks. Love your channel. I'm about to lease a Tesla Model 3, but I still want an FUV as well, having sold my motorcycle. Motorcycles are more dangerous, lack storage and passenger comfort, and also lack protection from wind and rain. The FUV takes care of all these issues. That's why I'm also an FUV investor. 👍
Here in San Diego I’d love to see the lifeguards using an FUV on the beach rather than a tinted windowed, air conditioned pickup which insulated the guard from the people they are protecting!
It is great to see a variety of electric vehicles reviewed. It increases the inclusive nature of EV transport. I'm too old to tackle a vehicle like this but I hope lots of young people enjoy this type of transport. Not so sure about the effect of the double seat belt arrangement!!!
Great job, Nikki! I have a small investment in FUV. I have to admit to having some doubts lately as the price has fallen back and stayed flat. Watching you really went a long way to renewing my excitement about the prospects for sales in the future. You showcased it's acceleration and I could tell you were having fun. Your future seems bright also. Well done!
Excellent, detailed review. I love the honest impressions and the comparison to the Twizy. Being in the States, we can't get the Twizy, so it's awesome to have something similar available. I'm frankly waiting on a single-seater version. I"d like to see this model combined with the Roadster... sportier with an extra measure of weather and impact protection.
I saw one in a parking lot here in South Florida. My first impression is that it is a pretty simple vehicle and quite expensive for the level of complexity and amount of materials in the vehicle. Before any incentives it is the same price as a used Chevrolet bolt with about 30,000 miles on the clock. I find it hard to justify the purchase unless you really do want to have fun with it and factor in the value of that fun.
@@transportevolved That seems a lot better - in line with a smaller Harley. The only other thing I see Nikki is the need to have that rear sit kitted out for carrying things without being gouged another grand or two. Some kind of storage system that can take your weekly shop without strapping backpacks in there ( which is what I would end up doing ). There will be as much stuff carrying as passenger carrying and they should take care of that at list IMO.
I will encourage you to check out the can am spyder. It starts at $18499 without any extra features. Its engine is gas powered. It requires oil and transmission fluid change for maintenance. It does not offer an enclosure for safety like the fuv. It’s a three wheels made in Canada. It sells pretty well. At $17900, a fuv is a bargain 🤷♂️
Thank you, for mentioning the Renault Twizy. Parker from Vehicle Virgins also had a blast with it. Fortunately I live in Mexico where Renault stil sells it for USD $16,500. Thank you again for referencing the Twizy.
Like the ‘Roadster’. More like a motorcycle, yet 3 wheel stability and electric responsiveness! Maybe lower frontal area gets some high speed range back too. Thanks!!
If you used it in the summer when you dont really need the house battery and parked it up in the winter when you do. A very cool addition to the house.
Nice one Nikki. I really enjoyed that! I did a double take when I saw what looked like an A road roundabout and then a national speed limit sign when you turned off onto a country lane. I thought you had been transported back to England!
I was very impressed with the helmet. I think this vehicle would appeal to more customers if it had a steering wheel, I think the original one did. I have issue with the look. Colored panels within colored panels, odd stripes, huge logos everywhere, it looks to have the bravado of a fairground ride or Vegas slot machine. I would like to see something more refined like the Carver, which is also enclosed, leans, has a steering wheel and it less than half the price. Doesn't go highway speeds but I'm really comparing the aesthetics. Great review!
Nikki: Nice review. I agree with your eval. I'm interested if they can bring the price down. Yahoo finance documents class action suit on false claims about preorders a while back. Got any figures on how effective regenerative braking is? I think key improvements would be: 1) price reduction to $12k 2) removable side panels/doors for poor weather riding 3) solar panels for a removable top panel 4) needs bungy cord hooks on rear seat for groceries. 5) I would prefer light brown seats/interior for lower heat absorption in hot weather - Jim
1. They're working on it. Not sure if they'll hit it (as Tesla's "$35k Model 3" wasn't a real thing either, just a "sold enough of them to claim we did.") but they're working on it. 2. They have half-doors now, and are working on full doors. The half doors are good at least in Oregon winters. 3. Only really useful when they have full doors to keep the ventilation running when parked. Won't really add any significant range, simply because the roof is so small 4. One early buyer would fill the back seat with packages before trading up to a "Deliverator" version with the rear seat completely replaced with a larger cargo area. 5. They offer brown! And if you are willing to throw enough money at them, you could probably get any color you want. :-D
Just had a thought. Rather than an E-Brake lever, maybe have a two directional throttle? Twist one way to accelerate. Let go and it goes to “neutral”. Then twist throttle the other direction for fine tuned regenerative braking.
I have health and mobility issues, and stopped driving due to the pollution factor around eighteen years ago. I have had friends say, "you should get a mobility scooter", to which I usually respond with a word that often preceeds "off". The Arkimoto however, is something I could actually see myself getting. Should it ever get to Aotearoa-New Zealand. Great video guys.
You can tell you ride bikes, you look totally comfortable and know what to look for on the road. It would be nice to see the price closer to the 12k mark. It would also be nice to see a bigger range. 100 miles isn't much range, if you want to go for a ride in the country
I was a _bicycle_ rider, but never a *motor* cycle rider before getting my FUV. It took a couple weeks to get "really comfortable" with it, and another month before I felt comfortable riding it on the freeway. But after that, and it's all second-nature.
18K + gear = looks like a whole lot of FUN ! ~ realistic no. You can buy a used chevy bolt for this much money. But 12k I would be ALL IN- think they will take my 06' Suzui Boluevard as a trade ? Thanks for the GREAT review.
People spend up to $50k on Harleys. This isn't meant to price compare with a 4 door car, and right now, there's really no other option that's undercutting its price.
Yeah, originally they didn't have headlights there (you can see higher-up, wider-spaced orange reflectors, on early prototypes, those were the headlights) - but because it is registered as a motorcycle, they had to put the headlights in a "motorcycle" placement. I agree, it would be nicer if they had been able to do something nicer looking; but they had to make a few engineering changes last-minute to comply with regulations, so just made the changes "quick and dirty". You can see some of the b-roll showing the older prototypes at 1:07 and again at 1:50 showing the original headlight design. There's a black access hatch with the Arcimoto logo on it to get to vehicle systems where they later had to put the headlights. The other major one is the front turn signals. On the production vehicles, they sticking out the sides on little stalks. I like this look, makes it look like an old roadster. But originally they were going to be flush-mounted (you can see the rectangular holes the stalks go in to,) but again, final compliance testing had the turn signals fail a few times, so they went with the "on the stalks" as a quick and dirty fix.
The starting price of a can am spyder is $18499 without any extra features. It use gas and requires oil and transmission fluid change for maintenance. It is a three wheeler made in Canada. It sells pretty well. At $17900, fuv is a steal 🤷♂️
If I had one of these it would be as a secondary vehicle to a car which is how I believe most people would buy them. The FUV for fun, fair weather, urban use. The car for long distance, multiple passengers, cargo, inclement weather.
I’ve been bugging Arcimoto to get it into Canada myself. However they are still ramping up production, and seeing as the border is still closed to non essential, I’m being patient. However I have managed to get my wife accepting to go for a test drive when we can get there. So I’ll play that long game. They were also the first share I ever bought, looking to the future.
Great review. Look forward to the Roadster. I do wish it had more range. Especially at higher speeds. While aerodynamics likely is a major contributor to the large efficiency hit at higher speeds I suspect something else is going on as well. It sounds like the EV powertrain or motor electronics is not well optimized at higher motor RPM's / power output. I would also hope for with newer battery chemistries capacities closer to 30KWh's at a good price might be possible. DC fast charging would also be very nice. With NCMA battery chemistries charging at 50KW on a 30KWh battery pack should be possible. Example just 4 modules with 24 cells each of GM's Ulitum system would yield 35KWh's and would be a 96S configuration with a 360VDC nominal pack voltage.
Yeah that must have been fun for them. Being out in the open air, they can really _hear_ the lack of engine noise on this vehicle passing them, and _smell_ the lack of exhaust.
Thank you for doing a real review of the FUV. It seems like most of the stuff Ive seen about it have been from investment types who dont know much or anything about motorcycles and even less about vehicle reviews. It IS very interesting, and I can see many potentional markets for it. I wonder about all of the other 3-wheelers coming... How many of them will find markets? (especially at around twice the target price). Edit: I see yall changed the title. Good call... I didnt really understand what it meant... Clickbaity and cryptic.
I may be biased, being an early investor - but I too get annoyed that Arcimoto seems to be spending more effort pushing the stock than the vehicle! The founder chats with investment RUclips channels way more often than car or green tech channels.
"One of the supporters of Transport Evolved actually has one of the very first FUVs to be made..." - Hey, that's me! :-D This is my usual winter riding outfit: i.imgur.com/MIYr8Zo.jpg (With whatever pants I'm wearing to work.) I stay dry enough that even in moderate rain, I get more wet walking 100 feet from FUV to office building than I do riding 10 miles in the FUV. The seat heaters and grip heaters keep me warm enough (although I do wear gloves to keep the backs of my hands warm, and the index finger that I use to activate regenerative braking - that lever gets surprisingly cold!)
Yes, you should definitely wear at least a helmet in any 3-wheel not-a-car. In a collision, especially a side impact collision your head needs protection. No, I don't think that is safer than a motorcycle. A bike is more capable of getting out of trouble by accelerating, braking, or turning quickly.. The Arcimoto price is surprisingly reasonable given the battery size and the motor power. It looks like a lot of fun.
Rode a 40 Horsepower, 320 pound ON-OFF road bike for Ages, mostly on the asphalt. Rolled myself out through a field while wondering if I'd tightened the drive chain up a little tight. (Hit a curb on the other side of the bike, while my attention was "not Where it ought to be." Probably a "Non-Event" in a Arcimoto.) Then I acted like neither of my eyes were functioning in the middle of an intersection; and the Driver of one of the "Cages" we all swear at Saved my Bacon. (That One, I fear, might have put me in a hearse -- in the Arcimoto; probably like one of Jamie Bonds martinis -- "shaken, not stirred." (We won't Mention the time you were 110% Correct -- I was Forced into the other lane of traffic when a car; and then a light truck pulling a trailer blocked my entire half of a four-lane roadway. {Truck driver must've figured, "If HE can Go, I probably can also Pull Out." And then both stopped, and so did my heart. Just about.} I went for the lane that seemed Pretty Well Clear of on-coming Traffic, rather than Tangle with either of the two machines motionless in my Lane. I estimate my closing velocity with that oncoming "Cage" must've been over 140 MPH. I got back over on my own Side; but it was a Real Near Thing.) Sometimes all your Extra maneuverability Does For You is dig you in Deeper. Especially since the Carriage Operators don't really know what a motorbike can do. And, if you've read This Far -- there was an "Old Lady" Harley rider, who was Strongly in Favor of NEVER 'slowing down to Nothing," for a left-hand Turn. She Liked to "Circle the Block," to the right. Just like a FedEx or United Parcel van. THEY don't see any Advantage, in waiting for a Investigating Officer, either. Intersections are "murder."
I'd disagree with wearing a helmet while strapped into a tube cage frame. In a collision, the extra weight of a helmet will place considerable stress on the neck vertebra. The head and body "remains in place because of the seat belts, but the momentum keeps the head moving forward, potentially causing a basilar skull fracture, resulting in serious injury or immediate death." This is the reason for the HANS device in motorsports. A side collision could result in something similar. For me, sans helmet would be my choice.
@@richardjensen2769 There are indeed hazards to riding and lapses in attention are deadly serious on a bike. You either ride defensively like the "old lady," staying out of trouble, or you'll never get old. A good friend has a Can Am Spyder 3-wheeler. His comment is that you can't miss anything in the road, one of your wheels will hit it. That would apply to curbs and oncoming traffic as well I presume.
@@Miata822 ANYTHING that "happens to be Out There," I suppose. Used mattresses, roadkill, a "stray ladder, fallen from a truck." One of the worst might be a cow, on the still open rangeland of Nevada. Your CanAm Pal seems to have hit on Exactly the downside, that may be the equivalent of a "Tesla Killer," for all of these 3 wheelers. (The Elio, of course, is DOA, on its Own.)
Great video, Nikki. Would love to see a video about Gogoro and it's new partnership with Hero Moto in India. How neat would it be for Arcimoto to use Gogoro's battery swapping in India.
Great video and driving on a vehicle I'm interested in. I wish you would have told us how many miles you drove and how much battery you used. My commute is mostly highway and 30 miles round trip with no place to charge.
Best Arcimoto review ever, someone at the company deserves so a praise
Don't see many comments on your skills Nicki - but well done on those life savers. Your traffic awareness is outstanding
I'm assuming 'life savers' is what you call 'shoulder check' over there?
I've seen that phrase come up a few times.
I want one too. I’d want removable doors like on a Jeep for rainy days.
Yeah, this is my biggest hang up with the vehicle. I know going at speed will prevent a lot of the water from hitting the occupants, at least the driver, but side winds or being stopped at traffic lights would suck. I guess getting full motorcycle rain gear would be another option, but doors would be more welcome!
🐣
You can order the doors, there's just a longer delivery time on them.
@@haraldriegler6000 Great! Hopefully there are photos of the solution because I’m unlikely to drop $18,000 without being fully informed of what I would be getting. I’ve seen other vehicles that had doors that only went half way up etc.
@@mrdsn189 you can find them online (e.g. on the arcimoto site in their "all-weather" promo video, but you can also see them in their configurator. Currently they only go half way so there are no windows. Personally I own a Renault Twizy, and that's got similar half-height open doors as the Arcimoto . It works well, you don't get wet even in heavy rain. But for the Twizy, the aftermarket soon came up with mountable windows, and I got those immediately, and these plastic windows were what finally turned the little thing from a nice-weather car into an all-year car. I'm in Europe, so in the winter with Snow and all, you really want those windows. If Arcimoto doesn't offer any, my guess is that if the vehicle is successful (which I think it will be, because it's great in many ways), aftermarket suppliers will definitely end up offering some. Unfortunately there's no way to buy an Arcimoto out of Europe yet, but I'd get one if it was possible.
I'm thinking that back seat could be replaced by a doggo crate. Call it the Doggerator.
Doggimoto! Barkimoto?!
@@christopherbrand5360 Kidomioto?
Don't forget the felimoto. Some cats are up for a field trip😸. But broadly, I think it's a good idea for the back seat to be easily convertable into extra cargo. Probably, not simple engineering to do it safely and flexibly
As an aerodynamicist I can say that if the Arcimoto had side doors/curtains that fully enclosed the cabin, the freeway range would increase substantially, and I think it can be done without screwing up the wide open feeling of riding on the outside of the vehicle that makes the Arcimoto such a gas to ride. The key in my opinion would be a modified version of the California doors.
The California half doors would help clean up the aerodynamics a bit by themselves (besides keeping splashes from soaking your shoes). My modification would be to add an empty frame to the doors around the top that lays against the roll bars. Done right I don't think the top from would even be noticeable when the doors are closed, and wouldn't interfere with the wide open feeling The top frame would have a zipper track that a heavy gauge vinyl panel could zip into to fully enclose the vehicle. Around town and in clear weather the curtains would be completely removed, rolled up and store inside the rear storage box. When you know you are going to be going on the freeway or on cold/rainy/snowy/all-of-the-above days, it would only take a few minutes to zip the curtains in. Since the curtains are attached to the doors, they wouldn't interfere with getting in and out of the vehicle. If with the curtains in more ventilation is needed I have an idea how that could be done with just a couple of plastic cylinders that slide in and out through ports in the side windscreen, but this post is already long enough. What do you think about this idea?
Owners do not report any difference in range with doors. In this weight class, the weight of doors matters too. I gained 2mph on my top end which is now 84mph since I removed the 65 pounds of weight of the rear seat, harness and foot mats. This was confirmed by two Arcimoto technicians who noticed the difference in pep. I closed in the rear with HD cargo nets.
You can't just cut in left-hand drive footage without a proper introduction, I freaked out for a second 😅
I didn't even notice the side of the road at first, I was thinking, huh they have the same road signs as the UK it's almost like a little bit of home over there 😄.
Glad to see I’m not the only one who noticed.
It all just looks wrong to be driving on the right hand side.. I can't get over that..
So everything else is just lost in that background minor panic of 'She's on the wrong side of the road!'
Thank you for a great ride-along! This has been the best “review” I’ve seen on the FUV (and from a trusted source!). I was really interested in the highway performance as my work commute is a mix of city and highway speeds. Now I will just need to be patient and wait for It to come down to the target price!
She gets up to freeway speeds on Hwy 26 here: ruclips.net/video/NfSNs90N-Ms/видео.html
Probably the best edited, best sounding, most comprehensive review I've seen from this channel! And, obviously, your driving skills, Nikki, are impeccable. Thank you for this content. I need to test drive an Arcimoto.
One of the best informed reviews I’ve seen on the FUV thanks
Like the on the road impressions as they were happening. Grew up on snowmobiles and this reminds me riding those but for year round use. Waiting for the price to come down a bit.
Can confirm - top speed is "over 80." :-P (Although range drops like a stone when going that fast. The battery percent-meter (about 1% per mile in the city) starts counting down so quickly, you'd think a SpaceX Falcon 9 was about to launch!)
That looks like great fun. Thanks for being you 😃👍🙏
Looks awesome! Been watching Arcimoto for a while. Great to see a straight review. 😁🙃😎👍
Bullseye! Your review was spot on. Arcimoto has a winner and seeing all the FUN you seem to be having with it, I'd dare say that it's appropriately named.
This whole area looks uncannily like many regions in southern Germany that I travelled through, in terms of topography and vegetation. I hope we see FUVs in Europe soon.
"Driving in around and aboooot a massive 'dormant' Volcano" no doubt..
This thing is the ultimate FU vehicle
Thanks for the ride and review. It's great to hear your experience. I'm hoping it does begin to take off so they can open a shop in my town in WI.
Thanks for a review that really shows what it's like to drive the Arcimoto FUV. Great job as usual. 🤘😎👍🍁
Great job. Your very relaxed driving it. I'm impressed with your 🎤 and cameras are awesome.
Thanks for the review of it
LOL to the Twizzy footage @17:32 ... I was trying to figure out where there was left-lane driving in the Portland area until I realized you weren’t in the Arcimoto 🤣
I wish she had included more forward facing footage from the Arcimoto. I'm always happy to see Nicki's face, but the view out the windscreen would give a better sense of the vehicle.
Great helmet voice sound! Nice mic
An outstanding review! Most informative of the Arcimoto but also much better than many other in-depth EV reviews I've seen. She's answered most of my questions, as someone who's considering the FUV, if the company survives to sell to my very not "green" fly-over state and if the price comes down. Extensively covered the fun factor, practicality, safely
I wonder if doors would make it more fuel efficient on the highway. I know cars take a pretty big hit when you drive with your windows down...
Doors would absolutely improve highway efficiency. If you think about the fact that it is less than half the weight, roughly half the frontal area, and has almost the same size battery as something like an early Leaf or i3 with similar ranges, cleaning up the aerodynamics should boost highway range beyond those cars.
Yes, for sure.
This is one of the best FUV videos I've seen. Faith renewed! 🙏🏿
We rented these in the rain and the front seat didn't get too wet but the passenger did get pretty wet and cold. The heated handlebars and seat make it very rideable during the winter as a commuter. I want one with doors for sure soon.
Great review, thank you! I particularly like the outlook from a motorcyclist perspective, well done.
There are a number of small, quirky commuter / run abouts that should take the motoring world by storm. The FUV looks by far the most finished and well thought out one, and by EV standards not that expensive. Looking forward to them on the UK roads
Thanks for a great review as always! Like in Oregon, our Michigan spring tends to be a bit nippy yet. My family is taking the EV cars today leaving me with my Zero, and I have errands to run. With a temp below freezing and potential black ice, I'm not looking forward to that trip. This could extend that season as well as be a vehicle you just jump into to get some groceries without having to fully gear up. It's quite compelling. From the specs, it looks like the onboard L2 charger is about 3KW. Perhaps that's my biggest issue. Put a 6 KW in there on par with public L2 charging, and it could even go on some minor roads trip.
This is the motorcycle that you'll be happy to have your grandmother riding, when she begrudgingly has to let go of the Indian. And she'll be more than happy to have it as an option, over getting a regular car. I feel that this vehicle has a great future with the rebels that occasionally have to pause.
Yeah, my aunt and uncle got to drive my FUV last year - they're died-in-the-wool Harley-heads, and they loved it.
For the Hardly-Ablesons?
@@robertkirchner7981 Mainly for me as I love this thing, but I think it's going to fill so many gaps in our transportation market.
@@AnonymousFreakYT The minute I saw this thing it took me back to my classic Vespa I rebuild when I was 17, all around fun, I very jealous of your purchase.
I’ve never really liked three wheeled vehicles, But this is something else.🤩
This looks usable for those of us who have mobility issues. I would love to test drive this one and see for myself if it meets my expectations.
I believe the heated seats and grips are standard. If you buy one in Oregon today without half doors or trunk, it is $17,900. With Oregon Clean Energy rebate, it comes down to $15,400. If you are low/moderate income and live in Oregon, we are now talking $12,900 - which is within $1000 of the original target price of $11,900. Just incredible!
Awesome review! Thanks. Love your channel. I'm about to lease a Tesla Model 3, but I still want an FUV as well, having sold my motorcycle. Motorcycles are more dangerous, lack storage and passenger comfort, and also lack protection from wind and rain. The FUV takes care of all these issues. That's why I'm also an FUV investor. 👍
In this review are the reasons I´m FUV shareholder. Hopefully with mass production price comes down and then it´ll be a great vehicle.
Here in San Diego I’d love to see the lifeguards using an FUV on the beach rather than a tinted windowed, air conditioned pickup which insulated the guard from the people they are protecting!
Wow, yes, an FUV would be an order of magnitude better than a truck for beach life guards! Hard to believe a big truck is even allowed on the beach.
It is great to see a variety of electric vehicles reviewed. It increases the inclusive nature of EV transport. I'm too old to tackle a vehicle like this but I hope lots of young people enjoy this type of transport. Not so sure about the effect of the double seat belt arrangement!!!
You shouldn't rule yourself out because of your age. Mark Fronmeyer's (CEO) mom rides one and loves it. Bet it would make you feel young again!
I like this tricycle because when replacing tires I only have to buy 3 instead of 4 😊
Great job, Nikki! I have a small investment in FUV. I have to admit to having some doubts lately as the price has fallen back and stayed flat. Watching you really went a long way to renewing my excitement about the prospects for sales in the future. You showcased it's acceleration and I could tell you were having fun. Your future seems bright also. Well done!
Very good review, one of the best I have seen. On this platform!
Looks like a blast but I just keep thinking about our soggy winters.
From what I’ve heard, rain goes right by when you’re moving
FUV is amazing
9:37 Hey, you just drove by my house! :P
Now I know where you live, MUAHAHAHA! (If you find a random Arcimoto flyer on your door one of these days... Uh... It wasn't me, I swear!)
@@AnonymousFreakYT LOL!
How are the sensations when you "send it"? I know you did it!!
Keep evolving!!!
23:00 Go ahead and say the "S" word 😂 Great content, as always 👍
Thanks for an awesome review. Looks awesome and if I was a two vehicle house I would strongly think about it.
Excellent, detailed review. I love the honest impressions and the comparison to the Twizy. Being in the States, we can't get the Twizy, so it's awesome to have something similar available. I'm frankly waiting on a single-seater version. I"d like to see this model combined with the Roadster... sportier with an extra measure of weather and impact protection.
I saw one in a parking lot here in South Florida. My first impression is that it is a pretty simple vehicle and quite expensive for the level of complexity and amount of materials in the vehicle. Before any incentives it is the same price as a used Chevrolet bolt with about 30,000 miles on the clock. I find it hard to justify the purchase unless you really do want to have fun with it and factor in the value of that fun.
Watch the review.. the target price of $12k is mentioned. - Nikki .
@@transportevolved That seems a lot better - in line with a smaller Harley. The only other thing I see Nikki is the need to have that rear sit kitted out for carrying things without being gouged another grand or two. Some kind of storage system that can take your weekly shop without strapping backpacks in there ( which is what I would end up doing ). There will be as much stuff carrying as passenger carrying and they should take care of that at list IMO.
I will encourage you to check out the can am spyder. It starts at $18499 without any extra features. Its engine is gas powered. It requires oil and transmission fluid change for maintenance. It does not offer an enclosure for safety like the fuv. It’s a three wheels made in Canada. It sells pretty well. At $17900, a fuv is a bargain 🤷♂️
Thank you, for mentioning the Renault Twizy. Parker from Vehicle Virgins also had a blast with it. Fortunately I live in Mexico where Renault stil sells it for USD $16,500. Thank you again for referencing the Twizy.
The mini driver with the British livery was jealous of you.
Like the ‘Roadster’. More like a motorcycle, yet 3 wheel stability and electric responsiveness! Maybe lower frontal area gets some high speed range back too. Thanks!!
Super Fun FUV!
It was! - Nikki
Deliveroo, Just Eat and the like are going to go mad for this! Very nice bit of kit!!
If I could use this as a back up battery for my home 12k would be a bargain.
If you used it in the summer when you dont really need the house battery and parked it up in the winter when you do. A very cool addition to the house.
You are going to use it a lot more than you think.
A bit too outdoors for me and our climate, but with doors and a heater..
Nice one Nikki. I really enjoyed that!
I did a double take when I saw what looked like an A road roundabout and then a national speed limit sign when you turned off onto a country lane. I thought you had been transported back to England!
You should strap a Jerrycan on the back just for shits and giggles. You can tell people it's liquid electricity.
Can't wait for my arcimoto to be delivered this July.
“I gotta get me one of these”
I was very impressed with the helmet. I think this vehicle would appeal to more customers if it had a steering wheel, I think the original one did. I have issue with the look. Colored panels within colored panels, odd stripes, huge logos everywhere, it looks to have the bravado of a fairground ride or Vegas slot machine. I would like to see something more refined like the Carver, which is also enclosed, leans, has a steering wheel and it less than half the price. Doesn't go highway speeds but I'm really comparing the aesthetics. Great review!
Nikki: Nice review. I agree with your eval. I'm interested if they can bring the price down. Yahoo finance documents class action suit on false claims about preorders a while back.
Got any figures on how effective regenerative braking is?
I think key improvements would be:
1) price reduction to $12k
2) removable side panels/doors for poor weather riding
3) solar panels for a removable top panel
4) needs bungy cord hooks on rear seat for groceries.
5) I would prefer light brown seats/interior for lower heat absorption in hot weather
- Jim
1. They're working on it. Not sure if they'll hit it (as Tesla's "$35k Model 3" wasn't a real thing either, just a "sold enough of them to claim we did.") but they're working on it.
2. They have half-doors now, and are working on full doors. The half doors are good at least in Oregon winters.
3. Only really useful when they have full doors to keep the ventilation running when parked. Won't really add any significant range, simply because the roof is so small
4. One early buyer would fill the back seat with packages before trading up to a "Deliverator" version with the rear seat completely replaced with a larger cargo area.
5. They offer brown! And if you are willing to throw enough money at them, you could probably get any color you want. :-D
Just had a thought. Rather than an E-Brake lever, maybe have a two directional throttle? Twist one way to accelerate. Let go and it goes to “neutral”. Then twist throttle the other direction for fine tuned regenerative braking.
I recognize those roads.
Really good review, Nikki. Excellent job.
I love FUV so cool can’t wait for mine
Need a version that would qualify for Lyft/Uber use around town and of course with federal/state incentives!
Annoyingly, Uber hosted a couple events with Arcimoto a few years ago - but apparently decided not to pursue it.
It would be interesting to see a review of the SAM EV.
Thanks...
Great in-depth video.
Great review 👍
Love it, waiting for cost to come down.
Cheers
Yes i would be into buying one for me.. Abit more milage from the battery would be good to see.
Arcimoto should send one to the OG Gambler 500 in june. :)
I have health and mobility issues, and stopped driving due to the pollution factor around eighteen years ago. I have had friends say, "you should get a mobility scooter", to which I usually respond with a word that often preceeds "off". The Arkimoto however, is something I could actually see myself getting. Should it ever get to Aotearoa-New Zealand. Great video guys.
Assuming total around town range when battery is charged near 80% is around 75 miles? Good review.
You can tell you ride bikes, you look totally comfortable and know what to look for on the road. It would be nice to see the price closer to the 12k mark. It would also be nice to see a bigger range. 100 miles isn't much range, if you want to go for a ride in the country
I was a _bicycle_ rider, but never a *motor* cycle rider before getting my FUV. It took a couple weeks to get "really comfortable" with it, and another month before I felt comfortable riding it on the freeway. But after that, and it's all second-nature.
18K + gear = looks like a whole lot of FUN ! ~ realistic no. You can buy a used chevy bolt for this much money. But 12k I would be ALL IN- think they will take my 06' Suzui Boluevard as a trade ?
Thanks for the GREAT review.
People spend up to $50k on Harleys. This isn't meant to price compare with a 4 door car, and right now, there's really no other option that's undercutting its price.
They really need to improve the headlights maybe a light bar center mounted , instead of the black square on the front
Yeah, originally they didn't have headlights there (you can see higher-up, wider-spaced orange reflectors, on early prototypes, those were the headlights) - but because it is registered as a motorcycle, they had to put the headlights in a "motorcycle" placement. I agree, it would be nicer if they had been able to do something nicer looking; but they had to make a few engineering changes last-minute to comply with regulations, so just made the changes "quick and dirty". You can see some of the b-roll showing the older prototypes at 1:07 and again at 1:50 showing the original headlight design. There's a black access hatch with the Arcimoto logo on it to get to vehicle systems where they later had to put the headlights.
The other major one is the front turn signals. On the production vehicles, they sticking out the sides on little stalks. I like this look, makes it look like an old roadster. But originally they were going to be flush-mounted (you can see the rectangular holes the stalks go in to,) but again, final compliance testing had the turn signals fail a few times, so they went with the "on the stalks" as a quick and dirty fix.
I wouldn't want one for city commuting but for backroad cruising it looks like a lot of fun!
The starting price seems too high. Hopefully they can drive the price down as they get better at making them at scale. Seems like fun to drive.
The starting price of a can am spyder is $18499 without any extra features. It use gas and requires oil and transmission fluid change for maintenance. It is a three wheeler made in Canada. It sells pretty well. At $17900, fuv is a steal 🤷♂️
11:12 Use the force, Luke.
Very interesting
If I could buy one in Canada today? Our car would be up for sale tomorrow. Its perfect for our needs here on Vancouver Island.
They have been in limited production for a couple of years now. Don't think you can't get one now.
If I had one of these it would be as a secondary vehicle to a car which is how I believe most people would buy them. The FUV for fun, fair weather, urban use. The car for long distance, multiple passengers, cargo, inclement weather.
@@charliedevine6869 Its in Oregon. Its not being exported to Canada yet.
Yeah! This is a perfect city commuter. Imagine if everyone drove one
I’ve been bugging Arcimoto to get it into Canada myself. However they are still ramping up production, and seeing as the border is still closed to non essential, I’m being patient. However I have managed to get my wife accepting to go for a test drive when we can get there. So I’ll play that long game. They were also the first share I ever bought, looking to the future.
Love it, will it ever arrive in the U.K. though.
Great review. Look forward to the Roadster. I do wish it had more range. Especially at higher speeds. While aerodynamics likely is a major contributor to the large efficiency hit at higher speeds I suspect something else is going on as well. It sounds like the EV powertrain or motor electronics is not well optimized at higher motor RPM's / power output. I would also hope for with newer battery chemistries capacities closer to 30KWh's at a good price might be possible. DC fast charging would also be very nice. With NCMA battery chemistries charging at 50KW on a 30KWh battery pack should be possible. Example just 4 modules with 24 cells each of GM's Ulitum system would yield 35KWh's and would be a 96S configuration with a 360VDC nominal pack voltage.
Love Arcimoto. Will get at least 1 in a couple years when they are cheaper and more available. This thing is super fun and super practical.
Great news about the vaccine.
Perfect overtake of those cyclists
Yeah that must have been fun for them. Being out in the open air, they can really _hear_ the lack of engine noise on this vehicle passing them, and _smell_ the lack of exhaust.
Thank you for doing a real review of the FUV. It seems like most of the stuff Ive seen about it have been from investment types who dont know much or anything about motorcycles and even less about vehicle reviews. It IS very interesting, and I can see many potentional markets for it. I wonder about all of the other 3-wheelers coming... How many of them will find markets? (especially at around twice the target price).
Edit: I see yall changed the title. Good call... I didnt really understand what it meant... Clickbaity and cryptic.
I may be biased, being an early investor - but I too get annoyed that Arcimoto seems to be spending more effort pushing the stock than the vehicle! The founder chats with investment RUclips channels way more often than car or green tech channels.
"One of the supporters of Transport Evolved actually has one of the very first FUVs to be made..." - Hey, that's me! :-D
This is my usual winter riding outfit: i.imgur.com/MIYr8Zo.jpg (With whatever pants I'm wearing to work.) I stay dry enough that even in moderate rain, I get more wet walking 100 feet from FUV to office building than I do riding 10 miles in the FUV. The seat heaters and grip heaters keep me warm enough (although I do wear gloves to keep the backs of my hands warm, and the index finger that I use to activate regenerative braking - that lever gets surprisingly cold!)
You should have shown the current version of the Deliverator instead of the previous “cube” prototype.
I wore my black helmet in summer in the Phoenix summer on my black bike. I didn't want to be an organ donor, plus I looked good!
17K price doesn't seem as high of a price now. Since, it's quite capable. An enclosed passenger seat would make it more useful.
I'm calling shotgun!
Chapeau.
Yes, you should definitely wear at least a helmet in any 3-wheel not-a-car. In a collision, especially a side impact collision your head needs protection.
No, I don't think that is safer than a motorcycle. A bike is more capable of getting out of trouble by accelerating, braking, or turning quickly..
The Arcimoto price is surprisingly reasonable given the battery size and the motor power. It looks like a lot of fun.
Rode a 40 Horsepower, 320 pound ON-OFF road bike for Ages, mostly on the asphalt. Rolled myself out through a field while wondering if I'd tightened the drive chain up a little tight.
(Hit a curb on the other side of the bike, while my attention was "not Where it ought to be." Probably a "Non-Event" in a Arcimoto.) Then I acted like neither of my eyes were functioning in the middle of an intersection; and the Driver of one of the "Cages" we all swear at Saved my Bacon. (That One, I fear, might have put me in a hearse -- in the Arcimoto; probably like one
of Jamie Bonds martinis -- "shaken, not stirred." (We won't Mention the time you were 110% Correct -- I was Forced into the other lane of traffic when a car; and then a light truck pulling a trailer blocked my entire half of a four-lane roadway. {Truck driver must've figured, "If HE can Go, I probably can also Pull Out." And then both stopped, and so did my heart. Just about.}
I went for the lane that seemed Pretty Well Clear of on-coming Traffic, rather than Tangle with either of the two machines motionless in my Lane. I estimate my closing velocity with
that oncoming "Cage" must've been over 140 MPH. I got back over on my own Side; but it was a Real Near Thing.) Sometimes all your Extra maneuverability Does For You is dig you in Deeper. Especially since the Carriage Operators don't really know what a motorbike can do. And, if you've read This Far -- there was an "Old Lady" Harley rider, who was Strongly in Favor of NEVER 'slowing down to Nothing," for a left-hand Turn. She Liked to "Circle the Block," to the right. Just like a FedEx or United Parcel van. THEY don't see any Advantage, in waiting for a Investigating Officer, either. Intersections are "murder."
I'd disagree with wearing a helmet while strapped into a tube cage frame. In a collision, the extra weight of a helmet will place considerable stress on the neck vertebra. The head and body "remains in place because of the seat belts, but the momentum keeps the head moving forward, potentially causing a basilar skull fracture, resulting in serious injury or immediate death." This is the reason for the HANS device in motorsports. A side collision could result in something similar. For me, sans helmet would be my choice.
@@richardjensen2769 There are indeed hazards to riding and lapses in attention are deadly serious on a bike. You either ride defensively like the "old lady," staying out of trouble, or you'll never get old.
A good friend has a Can Am Spyder 3-wheeler. His comment is that you can't miss anything in the road, one of your wheels will hit it. That would apply to curbs and oncoming traffic as well I presume.
@@apexerman1 Valid point.
I think any additional safety of these 3-wheelers is mainly a matter of perception.
@@Miata822 ANYTHING that "happens to be Out There," I suppose. Used mattresses, roadkill, a "stray ladder, fallen from a truck." One of the worst might be a cow, on the still open rangeland of Nevada. Your CanAm Pal seems to have hit on Exactly the downside, that may be the equivalent of a "Tesla Killer," for all of these 3 wheelers. (The Elio, of course, is DOA, on its Own.)
Great video, Nikki. Would love to see a video about Gogoro and it's new partnership with Hero Moto in India. How neat would it be for Arcimoto to use Gogoro's battery swapping in India.
Yanno what, I want one too
Would be great to know how this compares to Ayro.
The BIG question that everyone wants the answer to.
When is it coming to the UK ?
Very cool. Just not for me and that’s fine. Wish them luck!
Great video and driving on a vehicle I'm interested in. I wish you would have told us how many miles you drove and how much battery you used. My commute is mostly highway and 30 miles round trip with no place to charge.