Chinese/Italian hybrids built in Alabama?

Hybrid Kinetic Motors, which has said it intends to build a $4.3 billion plant in Bay Minette by 2013, entered a $5 million contract with Italdesign Giugiaro Tuesday for the design and engineering of a family of hybrid vehicles.

“We believe HK Motors could help transform the economy of south Alabama, but also Alabama and into Florida and Mississippi,†Alabama Development Office Director Neal Wade said at a ceremony to unveil the prototype vehicle.

“HK Motors could play a vital role … in the development of the next car for the next generation,†Gov. Bob Riley said.


When HK Motors and Giugiaro officials pulled the cover off the prototype, the gleaming silver car was met with “oohs†and “aahs.†The sports car can seat three adults and one child, with the driver seated in the front center.

The roof — which has solar panels that help power the vehicle — is hinged and lifts up with the sides to allow entry into the car, somewhat reminiscent of the limited edition Delorean of the 1980s — a car made famous by the movie “Back to the Future.â€

“It’s my understanding the sedan will be different,†state Rep. Alan Baker, R-Brewton, said. “This is here for the wow factor.â€

But amid the excitement over the project, state officials acknowledged the skepticism that has met the plans. HK Motors has said it will produce 1 million vehicles once it reaches full capacity by 2018. By 2012, automotive production in the United States could be back up to 14 million to 15 million cars per year — meaning that HK Motors would be producing a significant share of the market if it did reach capacity. The company has said it would employ up to 5,800 people.

The Brewton Standard > News > HK Motors unveils prototype vehicle: ?The wow factor?

 

Photos. The "Energy" screen looks eeriely familiar...

HK Motors unveils car | montgomeryadvertiser.com | Montgomery Alabama | Montgomery Advertiser