DETROIT -- I spoke with Clement Dorence, Marketing Manager, regarding the Venturi America.

This vehicle is based in Monte Carlo, France, and is not in the United States yet. The automaker has been specializing in electric vehicles (EVs) for ten years and are partnered with Peugeot. The America EV is a mix between a sports car and a dune buggy.

It has a lithium battery with a six to eight year battery life. It can go from 0-60 mpg in less than five seconds.

The Venturi America has 190 miles of range per charge with a top speed of 120 mph. It has 54 kw of power on the battery. It can use a 110 charge or 220. The engine is in the rear between the two wheels and the battery is behind the seats and in the console in the middle with a "H" configuration.

"The battery needs to be protected in case of a crash," Dorence said.

Look for the Venturi America at the 2011 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.