Electric Dodge charges in

America’s politicians have brokered a deal with car industry executives for billions of dollars in aid – and here’s the kind of machine the money could help them develop. This electric Dodge EV was spotted by our spies being put through its paces. The picture reveals that the Lotus Europa-based model, which debuted at November’s LA Motor Show, is more than a concept. The lines are subtly different to the show car, but it’s not clear if the drivetrain is changed. The electric motor is said to deliver 268bhp, and gives the Dodge a sub-five-second 0-60mph time. First models are due in 2010.