Electric vehicles, or EVs, are vehicles than run solely on electricity. The batteries that power the motor must be plugged into a power source to be charged. Although EVs can use onboard or outside chargers, they both use electricity from the power grid. However, even though electricity production can create pollution, EVs are considered zero-emissions vehicles because their motors are emissions-free.
Unfortunately, there are currently no light-duty EVs available from major auto manufacturers. However, there are some NEVs, or Neighborhood Electric Vehicles, available from many companies. These NEVs are usually small vehicles meant for neighborhood commuting or light hauling, and can maintain speeds of up to 25 miles per hour. They are most commonly used at airports, college campuses, and resorts.
In the medium and heavy duty category, the first highway legal battery-electric vehicle (BEV) became available in 2009 from manufacturer Smith Electric Vehicles US-Corp. Including Ohio in their initial roll-out, Smith Electric Vehicles is planning to produce 500 to 600 vehicles in the United States. A key component of their roll-out is the recharging infrastructure provided by Aeroenvironment. For more information on these ventures, please visit the links below.
Links
- Electric Drive Transportation Association»
- The Electrification Coalition»
- Plug In America»
- To find out more about electric vehicles that are currently available, please see our Buyer's Guide.
- For more information on electric vehicles, please visit the Alternative Fuels Data Center.
- To learn more about the current availability of EVs, please visit EVWorld.
- Smith Electric Vehicles in the US».
- Aeroenvirnment».
