Hasta La Ideas

Guest post by Eric Capper

Conservative designs like the Toyota Prius, Honda Insight and Smart ForTwo have spread infectiously across a cost-conscious automotive industry vying for fuel efficiency. These cars certainly have their place in the market, but many consumers have wondered when they’d see a fuel-conscious car that actually looked like a car. Yes, there are already cars that promise strong fuel economy and unique exterior designs—the Tesla Roadster, Fisker Karma, Frazer Nash Namir and Koenigsegg NLV Quant—but none of these have the fire-breathing American grit of a good old muscle car.

Enter the Revenge Verde, a $190,000, 200 mph+ green monster marketed as “the world’s first guilt-free mid engine Supercar.” Though we’re not sure how the car’s absurd price and performance relinquish buyers from guilt, a fuel-efficient, mid-engine supercar manufactured entirely in America is certainly something to feel cozy about.

Based on the iconic Ford GT’s platform, the Verde is powered by the HP2g, a 400 hp V8 hybrid that achieves 110 mpg running on ethanol. Zero to 60 mph takes an estimated 3.5 seconds, and, much like the GT, the Verde’s expanse and sheer size are arrogant and alluring in a very American way. This is a true sports car: the Revenge Verde features either an electronic sequential 6-speed paddle or stick shift – both mandating a clutch pedal.

Two decidedly un-green engine options are also offered: Ford’s 605 hp engine and the Corvette ZR1’s 630 hp engine. The Verde is available in seven different colors, aside from the obvious Lamborghini Gallardo green to match the vehicle’s name.

More shots after the jump,

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