In light of rising gas prices, we're not surprised to see fuel-sipping alternative-fuel vehicles fetching good money on eBay. But why not purchase some style by means of a pair of 1980 Jet Electrica 007s?
Wait, style? These? Really?
In light of Jet Industries' other products, we'd say yes. Based in Austin, Texas during the 1980s, Jet specialized in converting everything from the Ford Escort to the Subaru Sambar microvan to electric power. In light of those offerings, the Electrica 007 - built off Dodge's Omni 024 - had some (questionable) sport appeal.
As neglected as this duo is, they are, in a sense, time capsules. Both were purchased by the city government of Denver, Colorado, in the early 1980s; judging by their condition, it looks as if both may have sat ever since. Although their interiors are grungy, body panels bent and weatherstripping certainly cracked, they are remarkably solid for Malaise-era Mopars.
That said, you're going to need more than some elbow grease to get these babies sparkin'; we'd recommend a masters in electrical engineering and a penchant for high-voltage circuits. Neither car is currently running, which makes sense - neither has the twenty lead-acid batteries required to power the car. We'd also want to take a look at the drive mechanicals, including the controllers and the 23-hp DC motors themselves.
There's no doubting they're a unique (and electrifying) find. But given the amount of work each demands - coupled with the lack of a good EV parts source - we're wondering if they're worth the risk. We'll see if the duo pushes past $2000 on eBay. We'll bet on it - there are, after all, six days left...