A better world is possible - Global Commons Institute

Copyright Bruce Nixon 2010. All rights reserved. This electronic copy is provided free for personal, non-commercial use only.
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smaller vehicles made from lighter materials offer just as much. So, whilst giving impressive savings, hybrids
may be only an interim solution.
Electric cars offer considerable scope for short journeys. They are widely used in Denmark and Norway.
Current electric cars are limited in range and capacity and a lot of development is needed. Most are
impractical for more than short distances and there are safety concerns about the G-Wizz, a two-seater. Reva
Electric Car Company (REVA), market and technology-leader in EV (electric vehicle) personal transport in
India, announced the launch of lithium-ion batteries that would cater to the European market. The twoseater
Mini’s range is 156 miles but it has only two seats because of the size of its batteries. But most car
journeys in UK are less than 40 miles. In 2011, Nissan will offer a family-sized battery electric hatchback. By
2015, a range of family sized electric and hydrogen fuel cell cars should be available. Bearing in mind the
relatively short range of current cars we’ll need to think carefully about how best to meet our individual
needs. Relatively high prices may make it preferable to hire.
Networks to support Electric and Hybrid vehicles Renault and Peugeot Citroen have announced a deal with
French electric company, Electricite de France (EdF), to develop and market green vehicles. The plan is to
build a cross-country network to support plug-in electric vehicle charging stations. The charging stations
would have smart technology that would recognize individual cars and directly invoice the owner for any
charges. This partnership between the car makers and EdF reinforces the strong French stance and
commitment to being a leader in green transportation. The message is “We need green transportation now.”
Shia Agassi, founder of Better Place developed the idea of marketing electric cars like mobile phones, taking
out a contract for miles. It is being tried out in Israel, Denmark, Japan, Hawaii, Seville and San Francisco. He
says it isn't just about making all-electric vehicles. His big idea is for electric car networks throughout the
world, using clean electric energy. An infrastructure will be needed, including charging stations, battery swap
stations, and the software to make it as easy as possible for the user. London Mayor Boris Johnson wants to
greatly expand charging points around London. His working group is developing a plan along the lines of the
Autolib’ electric car rental scheme planned for Paris for 2010. Of course it depends how the electric power is
generated!
Care share schemes are developing on a substantial scale in USA with Zipcar leading the market, smaller, not
for profit organisations, and Hertz and other car hire companies getting involved. Bill Ford said “The future of
transportation will be a blend of things like Zipcar, public transportation and car ownership.” A survey of
“Zipsters” found that 80% want to drive an electric vehicle.
It’s a safe bet we’ll have a range of green options by 2020. Meanwhile plug in hybrids rechargeable at home
may suit us.
UK Campaign for Better Transport The following summarises the comprehensive proposals of the UK
Campaign for Better Transport source: the Green Car Congress, USA. The full report is available from the
Campaign for Better Transport.
Transport Policies for Cutting UK Transport GHG Emissions by 26% by 2020 provides a comprehensive
package of transport policies that could reduce UK transport sector greenhouse gas emissions by 26% by
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