Hiroyasu Koma, the owner of Japan’s GLM, believes that he can turn this idea into reality. Three years after founding GLM, Koma is well on his way. The Kyoto-based manufacturer developed a factory from scratch, secured the necessary regulatory approvals, and even patented its highly adaptable chassis.
The startup’s first car is released in association with noted Japanese racing car manufactuer Tommykaira, which was founded in 1968. The electric sports car is sold as the EV version of the iconic Tommykaira ZZ. That makes GLM more of a coach-building company than a car brand.
The ZZ EV sports cars can clear 100kph (62mph) in 3.9 seconds, keeping it essentially in a dead heat with the Tesla Roadster and making it faster than the Tesla Model S.
Production of the Tommykaira ZZ EV was announced in December 2013 following a US$6 million funding round which featured Mitsubishi Capital, Globis Capital Partners, and the Japan Finance Corporation, which is the Japanese government’s public investment arm. The cars have completely sold out, but GLM confirmed earlier this month it will start mass production of the EV. Koma is ready to move fast.
He tells Tech in Asia that he hopes to start selling the car globally in 2015, citing Europe, Malaysia, and Taiwan as prime targets. That expansion will necessitate a further round of funding, likely US$10 million according to Koma’s estimates.
