What
is a Neighborhood Electric Vehicle?
A Neighborhood
Electric Vehicle (NEV) is a small, enclosed, one or two passenger
vehicle powered by rechargeable batteries and an electric motor.
These vehicles are designed to be used within a city environment
to run errands, commute to work or school, and to make small,
local deliveries. NEVs are a low cost, environmentally friendly
alternative to larger gasoline powered vehicles. As small vehicles
they are easy to park, and less dangerous to pedestrians and other
vehicles. They are enclosed so they can be used in rainy weather.
The batteries onboard an NEV can be recharged from any 110 volt,
20 amp outlet. NEVs typically carry one person because most trips
in cities are made by only one person, and the vast majority of
trips within cities are a short distance, so range is not a problem.
Why A Neighborhood Electric Vehicle Makes
Sense
Modern cities
have evolved to require the widespread use of automobiles. This
has resulted in monumental economic and environmental problems
such as air pollution and traffic congestion. In many urban and
suburban settings the air is polluted and traffic congestion takes
a large toll. The NEV is uniquely designed to address these problems.
NEVs use electric motors that do not create air pollution and
they use energy very efficiently. Energy costs are about one cent
per mile. They can accelerate quickly and do not waste energy
idling at stoplights. Being small, the NEV contributes to a reduction
in traffic and parking congestion while retaining freedom of personal
mobility. Widespread NEV use could help change the design of cities
so that shorter trips are needed to enjoy a pleasant lifestyle.
Transportation
studies have repeatedly shown that most vehicle trips in cities
are comprised of one person going a short distance. This type
of driving using a gasoline powered vehicle is a very inefficient
use of petroleum. Stop-and-go driving causes the most air pollution,
the worst gas mileage and the most wear and tear on the engine.
Electric vehicles are much more appropriate for this type of travel,
being efficient, non-polluting, and having minimal impact. Many
people travel primarily in a local area at 30 to 40 miles per hour.
If they would use a small, economical, earth friendly vehicle
for these trips, it would reduce the need for more streets, parking
lots and garages. In addition, if gasoline vehicles were used
more appropriately, they would last longer, the mileage would
be lower and the resale value would be higher.
gizmo
one
less car
