Difference between revisions of "Glowing Motors Verret"

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(Description and Capability)
(Usage and Economics)
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==Usage and Economics==
 
==Usage and Economics==
It is commonly believed that the Verret "is so cheap it only lasts 5 years". In truth, the power-converting component of the fuel cell(the thing that actively converts radiation into electricity) is the only part with a short operational lifespan(just 5-7 years regardless of usage); and it is possible to replace the battery relatively easily.
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It is commonly believed that the Verret "is so cheap it only lasts 5 years". In truth, the power-converting component of the fuel cell (the thing that actively converts radiation into electricity) is the only part with a short operational lifespan (just 5-7 years regardless of usage); and it is possible to replace the battery relatively easily.
  
The other components, such as the motor, drive train, and electronics, last significantly longer. The battery, however, represents about 40% of the cost of the car, and after five years the interior trim is often worn out or showing it's age. As such, re-batterying(replacing the fuel cell) is relatively rare, and most drivers would rather turn the car in and purchase a new one.  
+
The other components, such as the motor, drive train, and electronics, last significantly longer. The battery, however, represents about 40% of the cost of the car, and after five years the interior trim is often worn out or showing its age. As such, re-batterying (replacing the fuel cell) is relatively rare, and most drivers would rather turn the car in and purchase a new one.  
  
The official literature on the subjects states that the cell is good for 5 years and after that it must be returned to the Foundation for removal and disposal. The easiest way to accomplish this is to drive the car to a dealership. There is no trade-in value, but they are so inexpensive few customers complain. The cars are then returned to the nearest factory to be re-manufactured. The cell and interior fittings are replaced, and other components tested and replaced as needed. Exterior panels are re-painted and damaged panels replaced. The typical operational lifespan of the chassis(with all functional parts being replaced several times over) can exceed 100 years. Officially the only way to actually "destroy" a Verret is to damage the frame.
+
The official literature on the subjects states that the cell is good for 5 years and after that it must be returned to the Foundation for removal and disposal. The easiest way to accomplish this is to drive the car to a dealership. There is no trade-in value, but they are so inexpensive few customers complain. The cars are then returned to the nearest factory to be re-manufactured. The cell and interior fittings are replaced, and other components tested and replaced as needed. Exterior panels are re-painted and damaged panels replaced. The typical operational lifespan of the chassis (with all functional parts being replaced several times over) can exceed 100 years. Officially the only way to actually "destroy" a Verret is to damage the frame.
  
 
The fuel elements, additionally, have a longer lifespan than advertised. Only the component responsible for the conversion ever actually breaks down. The fuel itself is usually good for 30-40 years. However because the conversion matrix is integrated into the cell, re-manufacturing requires highly specialized specialized equipment. Production and re-production of fuel cells is carried out by a subsidiary of [[Pleasant Company]].
 
The fuel elements, additionally, have a longer lifespan than advertised. Only the component responsible for the conversion ever actually breaks down. The fuel itself is usually good for 30-40 years. However because the conversion matrix is integrated into the cell, re-manufacturing requires highly specialized specialized equipment. Production and re-production of fuel cells is carried out by a subsidiary of [[Pleasant Company]].

Revision as of 22:10, 10 November 2021

The Verret is a modular Grand Standard-ceritifed car manufactured by the Gudersnipe Foundation under it's Glowing Motors subsidiary. The vehicle has been in nearly constant production at factories all over the known worlds since the early Fourth Age with relatively few modifications. In some areas it is the only practical vehicle for private ownership and is thus completely ubiquitous. Verrets are a common sight in Arindell and the Agras, as a major factory is located across the Brutish Sea in Modia.

Description and Capability

The Verret is a four-door family saloon with a steel frame and plastic bodywork. It is noted for being cheap, and because the exterior pannels are standardized, replacements are extremely easy to come by. The vehicle is all electric, with power generated by what is often referred to as a "nuclear battery" (in truth a nuclear-electric fuel cell). Verrets are sometimes also called "five-fivers" because they run for about 5 years and cost around 5,000 Gate Credits.

The car can seat 5 passengers and has a top speed of about 80mph. Because the electric motor drives the wheels directly, the acceleration is very quick, doing zero to sixty in a little under 7 seconds. However, these are approximately the design limits of the mechanical components, so little to no performance can be gained through modifications. The primary limiting factor is the electrical output of the power cell, which also accounts for a large percentage of the weight of the car.

Despite their utilitarian styling, each Verret is comfortable and well-appointed, without any optional extras. Air conditioning, heating, power windows, and a quality in-car entertainment system all come as standard. Navigation systems are also available in regions that support them. The only real component to customize is the color. Various third-party companies have been known to produce "after-market body kits" which change the exterior styling, but these are relatively uncommon as the added cost is usually substantial.

Usage and Economics

It is commonly believed that the Verret "is so cheap it only lasts 5 years". In truth, the power-converting component of the fuel cell (the thing that actively converts radiation into electricity) is the only part with a short operational lifespan (just 5-7 years regardless of usage); and it is possible to replace the battery relatively easily.

The other components, such as the motor, drive train, and electronics, last significantly longer. The battery, however, represents about 40% of the cost of the car, and after five years the interior trim is often worn out or showing its age. As such, re-batterying (replacing the fuel cell) is relatively rare, and most drivers would rather turn the car in and purchase a new one.

The official literature on the subjects states that the cell is good for 5 years and after that it must be returned to the Foundation for removal and disposal. The easiest way to accomplish this is to drive the car to a dealership. There is no trade-in value, but they are so inexpensive few customers complain. The cars are then returned to the nearest factory to be re-manufactured. The cell and interior fittings are replaced, and other components tested and replaced as needed. Exterior panels are re-painted and damaged panels replaced. The typical operational lifespan of the chassis (with all functional parts being replaced several times over) can exceed 100 years. Officially the only way to actually "destroy" a Verret is to damage the frame.

The fuel elements, additionally, have a longer lifespan than advertised. Only the component responsible for the conversion ever actually breaks down. The fuel itself is usually good for 30-40 years. However because the conversion matrix is integrated into the cell, re-manufacturing requires highly specialized specialized equipment. Production and re-production of fuel cells is carried out by a subsidiary of Pleasant Company.

Re-Batterying

Replacing the nuclear cell on a Verret is actually so simple a child could do it with the proper tools. These consist of a wrench and a specially designed lift-system. The batteries are also available for purchase. As such, several third-party companies exist to offer replacement services, purchasing and fitting new fuel cells for owners who may not want to return their car. The Foundation allows this so long as the spent cells are returned. There is not even any certification required, though companies interested in doing this are required to purchase the lift built by the Foundation.