Paris Motor Show 2008: Venturi Eclectic & Fetish electric roadster on sale

Eclectic debuted as a concept two years ago, but this is the production version, which goes on sale next year at 15,000 euros (£11,808) for the basic lead-acid battery version and 18,500 (£14,563) for the lithium-ion version. A 31-mile range is common to both, the difference lies in the life of the battery packs; 2.5 years for the lead acid, eight years for the lithium ion. The roof-mounted solar panels are mainly there for effect as they develop only tiny amounts of electricity.

The dinky windmill, however, is said to generate about 10 miles worth of range after six hours spinning – as long as it is windy. For the most part the vehicles will be recharged via mains electricity, which in France is largely nuclear-generated. The vehicles will be built at a new factory near Le Mans.

In the meantime there are plans for a limited run of Fetish models; 25 only, price on application. Powered with lithium-ion batteries, this 112mph sports car will accelerate from 0-62mph in less than 4sec. Venturi also debuted a design study based on Michelin’s advanced electric wheel motors called the Volage. A pretty little Lotus Elise-style sport coupe, this running prototype will be on display at next year’s Michelin Bibendum Challenge for alternative propulsion vehicles.