Historic Electric Vehicle Sells at Astonishing Price
At a recent surprise auction near Atlanta, an extremely rare General Motors EV1 was hammered down for $104,000. This pioneering electric model has only a handful of surviving examples, and the auctioned vehicle represents one of the precious few that escaped the crusher.
Milestone in Electric Vehicle Development
The GM EV1, as the groundbreaking model of modern electric vehicles, was produced between 1996 and 1999. Its streamlined body design and advanced technological concepts laid an important foundation for subsequent electric vehicle development. The model used lead-acid and nickel-metal hydride battery packs, achieving a top speed of 128 km/h, which was considered a technological breakthrough at the time.
Rarity and Collectible Value
Since General Motors decided to recall and destroy most EV1s, only about 40 examples survive worldwide today. These surviving vehicles are mostly preserved in museums or by former engineers, rarely appearing on the open market. The auctioned vehicle maintains its original configuration, including distinctive magnesium alloy wheels and low-drag body design.
Auction Scene Spectacle
The unannounced auction attracted numerous car collectors and electric vehicle enthusiasts. The bidding process was exceptionally fierce, with the final price far exceeding expectations, fully demonstrating the historical value and collection potential of this classic electric vehicle. This transaction also reaffirmed the unique position of early electric vehicles in the automotive collectors’ market.