Don't EVs simply shift pollution from the car to the Power Station?
It is possible to purchase renewable energy.
Removing pollution from town & city centres is beneficial to our health.
Pollution from a large generating facility can be much better controlled than from individual vehicle exhaust.
The energy source can be changed without the need to make any modifications to the vehicle
EVs much less wasteful of energy than their equivalent petrol/diesel vehicle, e.g. they use regenerative braking that captures lost energy when braking or as it slows.
EVs also help reduce noise pollution as they are very quiet.
EVs have far less parts such as lubricants, filters, exhausts & spark plugs - replacing all these regularly causes pollution in their manufacture, delivery & disposal.
We believe that in the UK, the only quality, safe and high performing electric vehicle that is available is the Citroën Berlingo Electrique (although you can obtain EVs such as Milk floats, golf carts or very small cars that struggle up steep hills).
The vehicle comes as a small van, and can be used as such.
If this vehicle is not for you, we are constantly monitoring the progress of EV producers looking for new vehicles. In the meantime, we ask that you complete our online forms so that we can update you when more choices become available.
Is it possible to recharge EV batteries with no effect on the environment?
Solar & wind power can be used to recharge batteries. Drivelectric can provide you with details on how you can obtain these.
Many electricity suppliers offer 'green electricity' (we can supply details on request).
How much do EVs cost?
EVs of any quality currently cost between 30% and 100% more than their equivalent petrol/diesel vehicle.
However depending on the mileage driven and the benefits available in the locale of the vehicle, huge savings can be made on fuel costs, servicing, taxation and parking (check out the economic benefits page).
In some cases (in London), savings from the running costs of an EV can make up for the extra capital costs of purchase within the first year of operation, and henceforth generate significant cost savings.
What about the limited range?
The vast majority of total daily mileage that vehicles in urban areas of the UK cover is well below the range of many EVs.
Within days, EV drivers learn to adjust their driving patterns to accommodate the range of their vehicles.
Public recharging points are being installed across the country.
Drivelectric is working in partnership with a number of car rental companies to offer smart short rentals.
For fleet vehicles, Drivelectric can provide EVs with interchangeable batteries. The vehicles can continue doing their tasks 24 hours a day.
What recharging infrastructure is available?
The National Grid is the basic infrastructure for recharging EVs
Wherever you see a 240V 13 Amp plug, you can recharge most EVs
In addition, there is a growing number of public-use recharging points in the UK specifically designed for EVs, e.g. in London, several public and supermarket car parks have installed recharging points (with specially allocated parking spaces)
Drivelectric is working with local councils and private businesses to increase the number of public-use recharging points as EVs numbers increase.
I park on the street - how am I supposed to recharge my EV?
There is a precedent for a recharging post being installed on the street outside a house in Lambeth, however some councils are more helpful than others and you may need to be tenacious and creative to get them to agree to assist you.
Frequently, there is a solution to this problem requiring just a little creativity. You may be able to recharge at work, at a neighbour or at a local business.
If you are very interested in purchasing an electric vehicle from us, but your main concern is lack of recharging facilities, please contact us. We may be able send a professional to conduct a survey in your locale to find a solution for you. This may also help us work with your local council.
What happens if I run out of power before reaching my destination?
A little bit of planning greatly reduces the likelihood of this occurring.
Drivelectric provides training courses on all aspects of driving electric including how to reduce the risk of running dry.
Most EVs give ample warning when the battery is running low and switch into an economy mode. This increases the range for the last stretch of your journey.
You could stop at a garage or business or friend or even a local resident and ask to plug in your vehicle for a short while to get you back to base.
Drivelectric is working with a number of breakdown services to provide a mobile rapid recharging service.
Are EVs safe?
EVs tend to be safer than fossil-fueled vehicles. They do not have a flammable tank of petrol.
Driving an EV is stress free which reduces their likelihood of being involved in accidents.
In addition, the weight of the batteries provides extra stability for the vehicle.
EVs come with the same safety features as their petrol equivalents such as side impact bars and air bags.
Are EVs reliable?
There is less to go wrong in an EV as compared to a conventionally fueled vehicle.
Electric motors are notoriously reliable and very easy to maintain.
Simple measures taken in using the batteries will prolong their life and range ability.
All vehicles that we recommend are backed up by a full servicing facility.
Are there other types of vehicle that have environmental and cost benefits?
There are numerous ways of fueling a vehicle, but an EV charged with renewable electricity is by far the best for the environment.
Whilst Drivelectric specialise in electric vehicles, where EVs are not suitable, we are also recommend use of any vehicle that has a reduced impact on the environment (which invariably saves money as well).
If you would like us to conduct an in-depth analysis of you or your company's transportation effect on our environment, with recommendations on how to improve it, please contact us.
We have information on Hybrids, Solar, LPG (Liquid Petroleum Gas), CNG (Compressed Natural Gas), LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas), Diesel, Bio-diesel, and even used frying oil!
We also offer advice on running electric rail buses, electric bikes, electric mopeds and electric bicycles and more!
What about fuel cells and hydrogen cars?
Fuel cell technology is not currently available for general use.
Estimates of between 5 to 20 years are given as to when they will be more common.
Production and storage of hydrogen, the likely fuel for the cells still presents huge problems of expense and uses fossil fuels.
Drivelectric is committed to selling vehicles that are here now!
