Tesla did not make the world’s first electric car. And it definitely didn’t cost in upwards of $100,000. The world’s first production model electric car was actually called the Comutacar. The Comutacar was manufactured by the Vanguard car company between 1974 and 1976. It remained the only fully electric car until Tesla launched their version in 2011. It is most certainly not an aesthetically pleasing auto. You could say it is an “ugly Tesla” with very little features. But keep in mind, this car was built before smartphones and the Internet. The electric and solar tech for cars have come a long way since the 1970s, and the Tesla Model S is like a UFO compared to the Comutacar. However, their following remains on YouTube.
The Vanguard Comutacar
An innovative hallmark for its time, it boasted eight Trojan six-volt rechargeable lead-acid batteries. It was also rechargeable from an 110-volt household outlet. Its range was nowhere near that of the Tesla 200 or so mile range. It could travel 50 miles in any direction at a speed of 40 mph. There were roughly 2000 Commutators made. And their price tag was a whopping $3,500 when they were in their prime. Fairly cheap, even for today’s economy.
YouTube Brings Solar Hybrid Back
A YouTube video published by Cereal Marshmallows showcases an electric-solar hybrid of the Comutacar. It is indeed a blast from the past. It is as if it skyrocketed from a clock tower with tread marks of flames. When watching the YouTube video, you would expect Marty McFly and Doc Brown to exit from the solar hybrid. The video shows the solar-powered Tesla downgrade in all its beauty. It is like a box that runs on electric solar power, which can be parked anywhere due to its convenient size. The interior also looked surprisingly inviting. It is no masterpiece, but could be considered a classic by many car collectors and solar enthusiasts.
Comutacar vs. Tesla
The newest Tesla electric car and SUV models are indeed impressive. They are capsules of luxury that offer electrifying innovation. The Tesla Model S has all-wheel drive, GPS, automatic steering, and can go from 0 to 60 mph in 2.8 seconds. The Comutacar is not easy on the eyes, it only goes 40 mph and most likely doesn’t even have seatbelts. However, the YouTube solar hybrid is pretty cool. It will get the job done if you live in a city and only use it for commuting within a 50-mile range. If you are inspired by the YouTube video of the Comutacar, you may be able to find one somewhere. This could have a big impact on your life. Instead of looking for an outlet to charge your smartphone, you could be charging your car.
