Obvio!

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Obvio! is a Brazilian automobile manufacturer. The company is specialized in the production of microcars. They produce the 828 and the 012. These cars are planned to be distributed through ZAP in the USA [1]in 2008. A dealer and service network is being established in the United States and Canada.

The cars are mid-engined using a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that can also mimic a 6 speed sequential gearbox, and powered by a 4 cylinder, inline 16 valve 1.6 litre 115 hp Tritec engine (high power version with either 170 hp or 250 hp are also available). They are described as "high performance urban cars". Fuel consumption is 12.5 km/litre (29.40 MPG) in the city or 17.3 km/litre (40.69 MPG) in highways. It runs on either pure alcohol (E100) or gasoline or any mix thereof. An all electric version is also planned.

The chassis is designed as a series of ellipses (a system called "Niess Elliptical Survival Rings") to be strong, yet low in weight. The cars have three seats and are fitted with airbags. It has McPherson suspension and disc brakes all round. The internal and external panels of the bodyshell are made in ABS/PMMA plastic. It uses scissor doors and also has a Boblbee backpack space integrated into the design.

The 828 has a list price of US$14,000 and the 012 has a list price of US$28,000. Extras offered are air conditioning (hot/cold), individual seats, power windows/rear mirror/central locking, leather seats and an iMobile Carputer.