August 22, 2008
Trident Says Biodiesel-Capable Iceni Good for 58 MPG, 3.7-Second 0-60 Acceleration
Trident Performance Vehicles said this week that it's still seeking financial backing for its fuel-efficient, biodiesel-capable Iceni, and that's a good thing.
The first prototype of the two-seater debuted at least a couple of years ago, and Trident says it has continued to improve on the original.
One constant: A front-mounted General Motors Duramax 6.6-liter V8 turbodiesel that drives the rear wheels through a rear-mounted eight-speed sequential automatic gearbox with paddle shifters.
Trident originally claimed the engine could achieve 375 horsepower and 520 pound-feet of torque. The British company now claims output of 550 horsepower and torque of 950 lb-ft.
Acceleration has also reportedly improved, reaching 60 miles per hour from a standstill in just 3.7 seconds -- down from a flat 4 seconds. For comparison purposes, the $198,000 Lamborghini Gallardo LP560 requires 3.6 seconds and the $270,000 Ferrari 612 Scaglietti 4.6 seconds to reach 60 mph from a standstill.
Trident originally estimated the Iceni would be available for $111,000. The company now says $139,000 is more like it. That's still within the realm of reason, given the prices of the Lambo and Ferrari.
But get this: Whereas the Gallardo has an EPA estimated fuel-economy rating of 10/15 miles per gallon city/highway and the 612 Scaglietti 9/15 mpg, Trident claims the Icenti can return up to 58 mpg at highway speeds and 90 mpg at a steady 30 mpg.
Unbelievable. Or is it?
Scott Doggett, Contributor
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- Scott Doggett August 22, 2008, 6:46 PM
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- Fuel Economy, Trident
