Concept Car Of The Day: 2009 Capstone Turbine CMT-380 - AllCarIndex

Concept Car Of The Day: 2009 Capstone Turbine CMT-380

Jul 29, 2024

Capstone Turbine Corporation made headlines back in 2010 with the introduction of their revolutionary CMT-380 hybrid electric supercar. The CMT-380 was not your typical hybrid vehicle - it featured a cutting-edge microturbine technology that set it apart from the competition.

Developed in partnership with Electronic Arts Chief Creative Director Richard Hilleman, the CMT-380 was a high-performance supercar that pushed the boundaries of traditional hybrid electric vehicles. Powered by both traditional batteries and an ultra-low emission range-extending microturbine, the CMT-380 offered a driving experience like no other.

The sleek design and impressive performance numbers of the CMT-380 caught the attention of automotive enthusiasts worldwide. With a 0-60 mph acceleration time of 3.9 seconds, a top speed of 150 mph, and a driving range of up to 500 miles on a single tank of fuel, the CMT-380 was a force to be reckoned with.

The Capstone C30 microturbine that powered the CMT-380 was a marvel of engineering. Clean and efficient, the microturbine ran on diesel or biodiesel and produced ultra-low exhaust emissions. Paired with lithium-polymer battery cells that could be charged at home or at a public recharging station, the CMT-380 offered a truly sustainable driving experience.

Although Capstone's primary focus was on stationary power markets, the success of the CMT-380 demonstrated the potential for microturbine technology in the automotive industry. With interest growing in hybrid electric vehicles, microturbines were being considered as electric vehicle range extenders and for public charging stations.

While Capstone had no plans to mass-produce complete cars, the limited production run of the CMT-380 served as a showcase for the technology. The success of the CMT-380, along with other demonstration vehicles like the Langford Whisper hybrid, helped generate public awareness of the benefits of microturbine technology.

Capstone's microturbines have been installed across the globe in a variety of applications, from office buildings to industrial manufacturing operations. Their efficiency and reliability have made them a popular choice for businesses looking to reduce their environmental impact and energy costs.

Although the CMT-380 is now just a memory, it will always be remembered as a groundbreaking vehicle that paved the way for the future of hybrid electric supercars. With Capstone leading the charge, microturbine technology continues to revolutionize the clean energy industry and beyond.