2019 Vanderhall Carmel Boasts 200 HP, Adds Doors And Removable Top

Unlike Vanderhall’s Venice three-wheeler, the 2019 Carmel features a set of doors as well as more interior room to go with the GM-sourced 1.5-liter four-cylinder turbo petrol producing 200 HP, a 10% increase over the Venice’s 180 HP 1.4-liter unit.

Since this 1.5-liter engine is also lighter, it gives this new three-wheeler a 75/25 weight distribution, which is a good thing, according to the autocycle manufacturer.

“The new Carmel emphasizes our ongoing commitment to the autocycle segment,” said the company’s marketing director, Daniel Boyer. “In contrast to other manufacturers in our market, the one and only thing Vanderhall does is manufacture All-American autocycles. We are committed to being the leaders in this segment, and the Carmel is the latest evidence of that dedication.”

Features on the Carmel include the front entry doors, high-performance 4-piston brakes as standard, bespoke 19-inch wheels, LED lights, synthetic upholstery, electric power steering, provisions for accessory air conditioning and a removable roof. The vehicle even comes with heated seats and a two channel audio system with Bluetooth connectivity.

As for performance, the 1.5-liter turbocharged unit also puts down 203 lb-ft (275 Nm) to go with the 200 HP (202 PS). In a straight line, the Carmel can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph (96 km/h) in 4.5 seconds and max out at 138 mph (222 km/h).

The mono-aluminum chassis and ABS composite body have been carried over from the Venice model, and customers will be able to choose between four distinctive colors: Silver Vintage Metallic, Poseidon Blue Metallic, Ruby Metallic and Pearl White.