The Kestrel is a 4 passenger EV, the body of which is made from impact resistant bio-composite material from Hemp mats produced by Alberta Innovates Technology Futures (AITF) in Edmonton Alberta from Hemp stock grown in Vegreville, Alberta.
Natural materials like hemp is claimed to offer a green and sustainable alternative to conventional fibers used in bio-composites, which are becoming increasingly popular due to their low cost and light weight.
The company will begin prototyping and testing on the vehicle later this month with the intention to achieve the same mechanical properties as glass composites, while achieving a reduction in weight.
Kestrel has been designed and engineered by Motive Industries for participation in Project Eve, a Canadian initiative to further the production of EVs and EV components in Canada.
Kestrel designer Darren McKeage said that electric cars need to be efficient, therefore, the Kestrel design had to be simple (minimized part count) and light weight, while still being unique and eye catching.
