Chinese company Techrules comes to the Geneva auto show with a carbon fiber sports car that serves as a testbed for a new type of hybrid drivetrain, a turbine generator connected to an electric motor.
Techrules is a new company here on the Geneva auto show floor, yet the car it's showing fits right in with the best from Pagani, Lamborghini and other exotics.
Techrules' Turbine-Recharging Electric Vehicle (TREV) isn't really about the car itself, but about its innovative hybrid drive system.
Techrules does plan on initially marketing its drivetrain in a supercar, then following it up with a more affordable everyday car.
The design of this prototype car uses a more wedge-shape than many other supercars at the Geneva show.
Rather than an engine, the Techrules Turbine-Recharging Electric Vehicle uses an electric motor to drive the rear wheels.
The TREV has a remarkably large carbon fiber wing on the rear.
The downforce from this wing may be necessary to keep the rear wheels gripping during acceleration, as the electric motor produces instant torque.
The rear panel covers the drive system, which consists of the turbine, battery pack and electric motor.
The turbine spins at 96,000 rpm, generating electricity that lets the TREV hit 62 mph in 2.5 seconds, while its range is over 1,200 miles on 21 gallons of aviation fuel.
Techrules notes that turbines work better for generating electricity than an internal combustion engine because they are more efficient when running at a set speed.
As a testing prototype, there is only one seat in the TREV.
Steering wheel and instrument cluster are relatively bare-boned.
The control panel on the console includes simple, large buttons that would be easy to operate by a driver wearing a fire suit.