NAFTC Prepares Manual for New Miles Electric Vehicle

The NAFTC has entered into an agreement to develop service materials and training for the Miles Automotive Group. Miles Automotive, with offices in Malibu, California; New York City; and Hong Kong and Shanghai, China, is preparing to market an all-new electric drive, zero-emissions NEV in the United States. Years of research, design, and testing have enabled Miles Automotive Group to offer fleet managers the first NEV with the comfort, safety, and convenience features of a conventional passenger vehicle. In partnership with China’s leading automaker, First Auto Works (FAW), Miles Automotive Group is ready to provide zero-emissions electric vehicles for North America’s urban fleets. The vehicles, known as the Miles ZX40, are manufactured at FAW’s Huali (Tianjin, China) automobile plant.

David Hirsch, CEO of Miles Automotive, has retained the NAFTC to enhance the current English translation of the service and owner’s manual. Miles Automotive is also working with the NAFTC for the development of an advanced troubleshooting and diagnostic manual, a basic time guide for allowable repair times, a pre-delivery checklist, and the development and delivery of a three-day new product information course for service technicians.

“All of us in the Miles Group are very pleased and excited to have obtained the service and expertise of the NAFTC,” said Hirsch. “The development of these materials by the NAFTC will help ensure the owners and operators of our cars enjoy a truly seamless transition into an electric, zero-emission vehicle.”

The ZX40 is available with the following features:

• Power mirrors
• Liquid crystal dashboard display
• Adjustable vinyl seats
• Map lights
• Accessory power outlet
• Rear cargo netting
• AM/FM/CD/Cassette audio system
• Digital clock
• Metallic paint
• Variable intermittent windshield wipers
• High intensity headlamps
• Rear windshield wiper
• Integrated roof rack
• Impact absorbing bumpers and side panels
• Front and rear window multi-setting defroster
• Dual access to storage area
• Rooftop storage/luggage carrier
• Power windows and doors
• Air bag option
• Fog lamps
• High-mounted brake lights
• Advanced torsion bar rear suspension
• Cargo area with tie-down storage straps
• McPherson suspension with stabilizer
• Power-boosted braking system
• Chassis of high tension steel
• Reinforced welded steel plates

Some may think the ZX40 is a typical golf cart-type NEV. However, it is interesting to note the following comparisons:

GOLF CART TYPE NEV Miles ZX40
Composition Lightweight Plastic and Extruded Aluminum Heavy Gauge Steel
Doors No Standard Doors Reinforced Lockable Doors
Airbags Unavailable Available
GVW/GVWR: GVW: 1600 lbs GVWR: 2491 lbs
Range: Range: 25–30 miles Range: 40+ miles
Tires: 10” Golf Cart Tires D.O.T. Approved 155/R70 Tires

Miles Automotive Group Zero Pollution All Electric Vehicle. NAFTC File Photo