Our methods of transportation are evolving and many of us will soon be driving electric vehicles!
Most major car manufacturers are delivering electric vehicles starting in late 2010. Electric vehicles allow us to reduce our dependence on petroleum for our trasnportation needs. By driving an electric vehicle, you contribute to cleaner air, you create a smaller carbon footprint, and you reduce green house gases. You won't ned to go ot the gas station anymore iwth your electric vehcle. When you park, you can "refuel" by charging up at a charging station where you live, work, play or shop.
Charging stations can be installed anywhere and everywhere. In addition to your own home, you'll be able to charge your car in the parking lots of your employer, shopping centers, theaters, ball parks, and other places you visit.
Electic Vehicle Sales Projections
The sales projections for electric vehicles are strong. President Obama would like one million on the road by 2015.
Electric vehicles typically have very low operation costs. For example, when gas is $3.00 a gallon, the cost per mile is 15 cents a mile in a 20 mpg car. In comparison, an electric vehicle costs around 4 cents a mile.
Electric vehicles are fun to drive. They’re quiet, and they have acceleration and torque.
The impact on the environment is significantly less than a gas powered car.
Estimates indicate 25% of light duty vehicle sales are projected to be electric by 2020.
New Electric Vehicles on the Road
Both Nissan and Chevy are introducing electric powered vechicles in 2010. In 2011, Ford, Audi, Mitsubishi, and Toyota, will make these cars available to the public. New manufactures such as Think!, Coda, and BYD, will have cars available in 2011 as well.
See the complete list of electric vechiles on the way, as maintained by Plug-in America, here.
The Nissan Leaf and Chevy Volt will be some of the first available in the Midwest from major manufacturers. Tax credits, up to $7,500 (depending on battery size), will be available from the federal government. **incl link to our tax credit page**. The Leaf is expected to cost under $33,000, and after the tax credits, will be approximately $25,000.
Communities Getting Ready
Many communities are preparing for the arrival of electric in a variety of ways, including: deployment of charging stations in public areas, demonstrations of vehicles, and incentives.
Portland, Phoniex, Tuscon, Orlando, Houston, Seattle, Toronto, St. Louis, and Kansas City are among the local governments organizing metrowide efforts to prepare for this change in transportation.
Businesses, educational institutions, and utilities are all very involved in the planning process.
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