Uzushio Electric has started volume production of the 68VM electric three-wheeled vehicle in the Philippines. The 68VM measures 3,300 (L) x 1,440 (W) x 1,820mm (H). It can carry six passengers and one driver. The capacity of the battery is 3-5kWh. The output of the motor is 5kW. When it is driven at a speed of 20km/h (the most fuel-efficient speed, approx 12.4mph), its drive range is 80km. Otherwise, its drive range is 50km. The maximum speed of the vehicle is 50km/h. Its hill-climbing ability is 16°.
The production capacity of the 68VM electric three-wheeled vehicle is 500 units per month (6,000 units per year), and it is scheduled to be increased to 1,000 units per month (12,000 units per year) in July 2015. For the PCU of the 68VM, a battery management system (BMS) that Uzushio Electric developed in a joint research with Ehime Prefecture was employed. Also, for the major devices of the vehicle such as its lithium-ion (Li-ion) rechargeable battery and inverter, the company employed products made by Japanese manufacturers to improve product quality and reliability.
