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Directory:Electric Vehicles

From PESWiki

Today is Saturday, August 23, 2008

Table of contents

1 Overview

For article , see PowerPedia:Electric vehicle.

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Overview

An electric vehicle, or EV, is a vehicle with one or more electric motors for propulsion. The motion may be provided either by wheels or propellers driven by rotary motors, or in the case of tracked vehicles, by linear motors.

The energy used to propel the vehicle may be obtained from several sources:

from chemical energy stored on the vehicle in on-board batteries: Battery electric vehicle (BEV)
from both an on-board rechargeable energy storage system (RESS) and a fueled propulsion power source: hybrid vehicle
generated on-board using a combustion engine, as in a diesel-electric locomotive
generated on-board using a fuel cell: fuel cell vehicle
generated on-board using nuclear energy, on nuclear submarines and aircraft carriers
from more esoteric sources such as flywheels, wind and solar
from a direct connection to land-based generation plants, as is common in electric trains and trolley buses

The fuel cost for an electric car is one quarter that of a gasoline car. Lithium-ion batteries extend the range and top speed. Choose from several new models or convert a conventional car into an electric car.

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Electric Vehicle Technologies Featured at PESWiki

Tesla Motors Inc. Nears Launch of First Vehicle - Tesla Roadster is 100% electric, not hybrid. A high power, high efficiency inverter combined with a powerful AC induction motor and large lithium ion battery pack make it faster than most sports cars (0-60mph in under 4 seconds; it also has a 250+ mile range and is more than twice as efficient as a Toyota Prius (135 mpg equivalent energy usage, station-to-wheel). Major VC backed ($60 million) company debuted the car July 19, 2006 in Santa Monica.

Phoenix Motorcars electric cars - Phoenix Motorcars, headquartered in Ojai, California, is an early leader in the mass production of full function, freeway speed electric automobiles. Entertaining fleet orders for Sport Utility Trucks (SUT).

The Hydraulic Battery-powered Electromagneti Generator from Tennessee - A trio of inventors from Tennessee have design a hydraulic, battery, electromagnetic system than they say can fuellessly run a home or a vehicle, or other devices. Several working prototypes have been built. Presently awaiting "pending" patent status, they are ready to build a business to bring this technology to market.

ZENN Motor Company - A Canadian developer, manufacturer and supplier of electrically powered vehicles currently sells two models in the U.S. The ZENN is an affordable Neighborhood Electric Vehicle (NEV) with a regulated maximum speed of 25 mph and a range of 35 miles on a full charge. The vehicle can be recharged overnight from a standard electrical outlet.

Fuelless "Surge" Motor Technology - In around 1994, Troy Reed claimed to have a fuelless, pollution-free motor with around 7 kilowatts of output, powerful enough to run a house or a car. The technology received a flurry of high-level interest, including major media. Actor Dennis Weaver organized a cross-country demonstration. What happened to the technology?

Electric Race Car that could save the planet—fast - High performance X1 electric race car humiliates Ferrari and Porche both off the line and in a 1/4 mile. All with a 150 mile range, and recharge time of 4.5 hours.

Azeev Inc. - A startup company doing research for the production of Zero Emission Electric Vehicles is planned to be 100% electric, not hybrid. Both Two Wheel and Four wheel drive (in-wheel motors) is contemplated. Planned range is about 500 Miles per charge. Self-funded company debuted the prototype on September 20, 2006 in Edison, NJ.

Lightning Car electric cars - Lightning Car Company is planning on releasing a 700HP, electric sports car, called Lightning GT sometime in 2008. They estimate to deliver top speed of more than 130mph and accelerate from 0-60 in under four seconds.

Hybrid Bus: e-Traction Revolution on Wheel - Whisper™ buses in the Netherlands get 13.9 mpg by using a diesel engine with an electrical generator to produce electricity which runs electric motors that are directly connected to wheels.

Venturi Automobiles - Features three electric models, including the Eclectic -- an urban 3-seater electro-solar or wind vehicle is the first production energy-autonomous vehicle in history. Eclectic takes advantage of moments of immobilisation to store energy in its NiMH batteries. It offers a range up to 50 km at a speed of 50 km/hr and can also be recharged from the grid in 5 hours. Production of 20 vehicles has commenced and 200 will be launched in June 2007.

Axel Corporation's Hybrid Bike - Tokyo based Axle Corporation has introduced a new electric motorbike with a hybrid plug-in, electromagnetic-permanent magnet motor, and is seven times more cost-efficient than scooters running on petrol.

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Companies

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Electric Bicycles, Motorbikes and Scooters

Directory: Electric Scooters (Separate Page) - There is great alternative to city commuting -- electric scooters. The cost to travel 10-20 miles is well below $0.2 as opposed to $2 on city bus (NYC). Scooters require less mass to be moved, and hence can be far more economical.

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Electric Cars

Directory: Electric Cars (separate page) - Put solar PV panels on the roof of your garage or carport and "fill up" at home for free. These cars are designed for short range daily commuting, not highway use.

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Electric Trucks and Utility Vehicles

Directory: Electric Trucks (separate page)

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Solar Vehicles

Directory: Solar Powered Vehicles

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Snowmobiles

Green snowmobile (http://www.exn.ca/dailyplanet/view.asp?date=3/29/2005#) - Check out the competition at the Clean Snowmobile Challenge, hosted recently at the Michigan Technological University. See why these snowmobiles are sweeping the industry with a storm. (Discovery.ca; March 29. 2005)

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Electric Aircraft

Boeing tests battery-powered plane (http://www.theage.com.au/news/news/boeing-tests-batterypowered-plane/2008/04/04/1207249411282.html) - "For the first time in the history of aviation, Boeing has flown a manned airplane that was powered by a hydrogen battery," Boeing chief technology officer John Tracy told a news conference at the firm's research centre in the central Spanish town of Ocana. (The Age; April 4, 2008)

Electric Propulsion System for Sport Aircraft (http://www.greencarcongress.com/2007/07/sonex-aircraft-.html) - Sonex Aircraft (http://www.sonexaircraft.com/) and AeroConversions (http://www.aeroconversions.com/) introduced their E-Flight Initiative, including a proof-of-concept prototype electric powerplant. The companies’s goal is to determine the feasibility of commercializing a line of electric aircraft products. Initial top speeds will reach 130 mph, with flight times of 25-45 minutes. (Green Car Congress; Jul. 26, 2007)

Superconductor electric airplanes (http://www.gizmag.com/go/7459/) - Scientists have unveiled research (http://www.iop.org/EJ/abstract/0953-2048/20/8/005) that would enable high-powered, ultra-reliable electromagnetic engines to be built for airplanes using lightweight superconductors and emission-free hydrogen fuel cells. These electric planes would be eco-friendly, exceptionally quiet, highly energy efficient and low maintenance. (Gizmag; Jun. 19, 2007)

Solar Flight (http://www.solar-flight.com/) - SUNSEEKER, a manned solar powered aircraft, has an electric motor, planetary gearbox, a folding propeller and 40 lbs of Lithium batteries installed in the wings. It was flown from Ramona to Tehachapi and back, over the Mojave Desert, San Gabriel mountains, Ontario, and Lake Elsinore. Flight time on the return was less than 3.5 hours.

Pipistrel's all-electric aircraft (http://www.ecofriend.org/entry/pipistrels-all-electric-powered-aircraft-takes-to-the-skies/) - So what is the big deal in a glider going around in the sky? Well, it is powered by an electric motor. The Electro Taurus boasts similar performance and characteristics to their gas-powered Taurus 503. The Taurus 503 is completely self-launch able, as adapted to a specialized Pipistrel retractable pylon mounted propeller system and twin parallel main landing gear. (EcoFriend; Dec. 28, 2007)

Conventional Light Aircraft with Electric Motor Makes First Flight (http://www.greencarcongress.com/2008/01/conventional-li.html) - A conventional light aircraft propelled by an 18 kW electric motor powered by lithium polymer batteries made its first flight late in December in France. The 48-minute flight of the “Electra” covered more than 50 kilometers (31 miles). The wood and fabric Electra is 7m in length, with a wingspan of 9m. Weight of the aircraft without batteries is 134 kg. The battery pack weights 47 kg. Maximum takeoff weight is 265 kg. The aircraft has a cruise speed of 90 km/h. (Green Car Congress; Jan. 4, 2008)

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Electric Boats

African Cats (http://www.africancats.com/) - Hybrid Electric Catamaran - A Dutch company has developed a hybrid version of its 43-foot catamaran, using Valence lithium-ion batteries that recharge from the motor/generator while sailing. Dual wind generators and solar panels provide additional charging capacity. (Green Car Congress (http://www.greencarcongress.com/2006/05/hybrid_electric.html); 4 May 2006)

transatlantic21 (http://www.transatlantic21.ch/index.php?id=106&L=1) - "sun21" is a 14-meter-long electric catamaran powered exclusively by solar energy that will undertake the first motorized crossing of the Atlantic without using a drop of gasoline. It will leave Spain the end of November 2006 and is due to arrive in New York in May 2007.

Solar-powered 42-passenger boat (http://www.gizmag.com/go/6997/) - The SolarShuttle solar powered electric boat, designed by SolarLab (http://www.solarlab.org/), is entirely pollution-free and silent running. It can carry 42 passengers in all daylight conditions, has reserve power for night-time running and even generates surplus energy that can be fed back into the national grid. (Gizmag; Mar. 17, 2007)

Lear Baylor (http://www.learbaylor.com/) - The Lear 204 electric boat cruises waterways silently without the environmental impact of sooty exhaust, irritating noise, or large wakes to spoil the moment. It is safe, stable, and simple to operate, with almost no maintenance and operational costs are only a dollar a day.

Electric Boat and Watercraft Businesses (http://energy.sourceguides.com/businesses/byP/ev/eboats/eboats.shtml)

Duffy Electric Boat Company (http://www.duffyboats.com/)

Tamarack Lake Electric Boats (http://www.tamarackelectricboats.com/)

MW-Line (http://www.mwline.ch/) - The Aquabus 1050 electrosolar boat can transport 24 passengers on lakes and rivers or up to 5 km offshore in silence, cleanliness and comfort. It is equipped with electrical propulsion and modern solar panels to provide operating costs that are 40 times less than with a Diesel engine.

ElectraCraft (http://www.electracraft.com/) - environmentally-friendly electric leisure boats

Elco Electric Launch (http://www.elcoelectriclaunch.com/)

ElectraBoat (http://www.electraboat.com/)

Nauticraft (http://www.nauticraft.com/) - Unique pedal and electric boats.

Hammacher Schlemmer (http://www.hammacher.com/publish/10313.asp?pcat=&pcont=solar%20KWSP&cat=solar%20KWSP) - Solar-Powered Personal Boat

Ecocats (http://www.ecocats.com/40paxElectricFerry/tabid/83/Default.aspx) - 40 pax electric ferry

Solemar (http://www.seacleaner.com/solemar/index-eng.htm) - Passengers' ships and pleasure boats exclusively powered by solar energy.

American Marine Electric Motor Corp. (http://www.amemco.com/) - Announcing the first SELF-COOLING, permanent magnet, brushless DC motor, super efficient, all-electric outboard motor.

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Hybrids

Hybrid Center (http://www.hybridcenter.org/) - Links to a Buyer's Guide (http://www.hybridcenter.org/), a Comparison Chart (http://go.ucsusa.org/hybridcenter/compare_chart.cfm), Tax Incentive database (http://go.ucsusa.org/hybridcenter/incentives.cfm) and some Reviews (http://www.hybridcenter.org/reviews.html).

PowerPedia:Hybrid Adapter - A hybrid adapter, or HYBRAD, is a device which turns any passenger class vehicle into a multi-fuel / hybrid vehicle. One example is a hybrid adapter that simply plugs into the back of your vehicle and pushes it. Hybrid adapters run simultaneously, or in parallel, with your existing drivetrain.

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Plugins

Pleiades-Enterprises (http://www.pleiades-enterprises.com/)

Excess Nightime Energy Could Fuel Over 158 Million Plug-in Hybrids (http://www.treehugger.com/files/2007/09/excess_nightime.php) - One common critique of an electric car revolution is that the increased energy demand might just lead to the generation of new power plants, negating some of the cars' positive environmental benefits. Not so, according to a new study by the U.S. Department of Energy. (TreeHugger; Sept. 4, 2007)

Run Your House on a Prius (http://www.pleiades-enterprises.com/) - Not only can the plug-in vehicle serve the purpose of using low-demand, often inexpensive night-time grid power, but it can also serve as a back-up generator in the case of grid outages such as are caused by major storms. (Pleiades Enterprises; Sept. 28, 2007)

Google to Spend $10M to Jump-Start Hybrid Car Development (http://www.usatoday.com/tech/news/techinnovations/2007-06-18-google-hybrid-cars_N.htm) - Google plans to give away money to people and companies that have what appear to be practical ways to get plug-in hybrid automobiles to market faster, including supporting Pacific Gas and Electric's push to unveil a future in which cars and trucks are partially powered by the country's electric grids, and vice versa. (USA Today; June 19) (NY Times (http://www.nytimes.com/2007/06/19/technology/19electric.html?_r=1&oref=slogin)) (See Slashdot (http://slashdot.org/article.pl?sid=07/06/19/2258242) discussion)

Consumers want plug-in hybrids (http://www.technologyreview.com/blog/editors/17605/)-once they know what they are - Number of customers wanting a plug-in went from 24% to 64% once they understood that the vehicles can be recharged overnight by plugging them in, storing enough electricity to power daily commutes. For longer distances, a gasoline engine kicks in, assisting the electric motor and recharging the battery. (MIT Technology Review; May 17, 2007)

Savings Not There Yet For Plug-In Cars (http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2006/09/25/tech/main2037963.shtml) - A study finds that high purchase prices and expensive batteries negate any financial benefits; and in some regions, plug-in hybrid-electric vehicles may simply trade one sort of pollution for another. (CBS News; Sept. 25, 2006)

Toyota gives in to plug-in hybrid pressure (http://tyler.blogware.com/blog/_archives/2006/6/19/2041853.html) - Having previously held a near hostile stance, Toyota is now the latest (and arguably most important) big car manufacturer to reveal that, yes, it's working on plug-in hybrids behind the scenes. (Clean Break; June 19, 2006)

Alternative Fuel Cars: Plug-In Hybrids and Electric Cars (http://alt-e.blogspot.com/2005/01/alternative-fuel-cars-plug-in-hybrids.html) - Some drivers are modifying their hybrids to enable plug-in charging, even though it voids the warranty.

Modified Prius gets up to 180 Miles Per Gallon (http://slashdot.org/article.pl?sid=05/04/02/1958251) - By modifying a Prius so that it can be plugged in, Ron Gremban of CalCars claims to have gotten anywhere from 65 to over 100 miles per gallon. (Slashdot / NY Times; California; April 2, 2005)

Plug-In Hybrids Get Up To 250 MPG (http://www.cbsnews.com/track/sumhtml2005081615/stories/2005/08/16/tech/main781291.shtml?cmp=EM8707) - While politicians and auto makers say "plug-in" hybrid cars are still years away from being marketable, some engineers have already built models that can get up to 250 mpg. (CBS; Aug. 16, 2005) (See Slashdot (http://slashdot.org/article.pl?sid=05/08/14/0147222&tid=126) discussion)

[That's not counting plug-in power from grid.]

Leads Charge for Plug-in Hybrids (http://www.emagazine.com/view/?3060Austin) - Municipal leaders in Texas' capital city, Austin, announced the formation of a new coalition of city governments and electric utilities united to lobby automakers to step up production of a new breed of plug-in hybrid gasoline-electric vehicles. (eMagazine; Feb. 1, 2006)

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Alpha Listing

AC Propulsion, Inc. (http://www.acpropulsion.com/) - Manufacturer of battery and propulsion systems for electric vehicles. Making the TZero (http://www.exn.ca/video/?video=exn20050304-electriccar.asx).
AeroVironment Inc. (http://www.aerovironment.com/) - Supply products and technology for clean energy and efficient vehicles. Products include unmanned aerial vehicles, electric and hybrid vehicle systems, distributed energy and atmospheric systems.
Alke (http://www.alke.com) - Manufacturer of compact high performance utility vehicles for professional uses. Includes company profile and product overview. [Italian, English]

Aptera - The Aptera prototype by Accelerated Composites (http://www.pureenergysystems.com/news/2006/01/21/9600227_Accelerated_Composits_330MPG_car/index.html), which is halfway to completion, will go for up to 330 miles on a gallon of gas thanks to an aerodynamic design and the lightweight composites that make up the chassis. (PESN; Jan. 21, 2006)
ATT R&D (http://www.attrd.com) - Manufacturer of battery powered vehicles in light-weight aluminum and composite bodies.
Azure Dynamics (http://www.azuredynamics.com) - Manufacturer of control systems for hybrid electric and electric vehicle powertrains. Includes company profile and product overview.
Bigetti (http://www.millennium-hk.com/bigetti.htm) - Manufacturer of electric powered scooters, bicycles and other transport alternatives. Includes company profile, tips and FAQs.
Bluebird Automotive (http://www.bluebirdautomotive.com/) - Manufacturer and distributor of electrical cars. Includes product specifications.
Electric Avenue AutoMall (http://www.zapofoakforest.com) - Supplier of efficient electric cars. Includes product overview.
Electric Vehicles (Thailand) Co., Ltd. (http://www.evthai.com/) - Electric scooters, bicycles, golf and utility cars, three-wheelers and shuttles.
Electric Vehicles International (http://www.evi-usa.com) -Manufacturer of electric and hybrid vehicles, including trucks, trams and shuttle buses for use primarily in off-highway applications. Includes product information. Based in Anderson, Indiana, USA.
Electric Vehicles of America, Inc. (http://www.ev-america.com/) - Electric Vehicles of America, Inc. is a leading component supplier for electric cars, electric trucks, electric boats, fork lifts, golf carts, mining vehicles, material handling and prototypes.
Esoro AG (http://www.esoro.ch/) - Swiss company developing concept vehicles, including electrically powered, hybrid, and fuel cell designs, as well as plastic component development.
Evader (http://www.evadermotorsports.com) - Provides a range of electric powered scooters. Includes product catalog.
Frazer-Nash Research Ltd. (http://www.frazer-nash.com/) - Go-karts, utility vehicles, golf buggies, tour trams, and city cars.
General Motors (http://www.autobloggreen.com/2007/01/07/detroit-auto-show-its-here-gms-plug-in-hybrid-is-the-chevy-v/) Plans on producing the Volt.
Global Electric Motorcars (http://www.gemcar.com/) - Four-wheeled transportation for two or four people, with a maximum speed of about 25 miles per hour.
Gorilla Vehicles (http://www.gorillavehicles.com) - The Gorilla Electric All Terrain Vehicle (ATV), used as a neighborhood electric vehicle, golf cart, utility vehicle, and for recreation.
Hybrid Technologies (http://www.popularmechanics.com/blogs/automotive_news/4215249.html) - Making the L1X-75.
ISE Research-ThunderVolt (http://www.isecorp.com/) - Low-emission electric and hybrid-electric vehicles (buses, trucks, tow tractors, trams) and components.
Luyuan Electric Vehicle (http://www.luyuan.cn) - Manufacturers of electric bicycle in China. Includes product overview and data.
MINI Cooper (http://www.miniusa.com/?#/learn/FACTS_FEATURES_SPECS/Top_Features-m) - Uses PML In-Wheel Motor (http://www.greencarcongress.com/2006/08/pmls_inwheel_mo.html) for a Hybrid MINI.
NEV Accessories (http://www.nevaccessories.com) - Manufacturer and retailer of fine accessories for electric vehicles. Includes product catalogue and data.
Mitusbishi (http://www.autobloggreen.com/2007/10/29/video-imiev-has-wind-turbine-in-the-grill-solar-panel-on-the-r/) - Producing the iMiEV (http://www.mitsubishi-motors.com/special/ev/index.html).
Nu-Kar Electric Vehicles (http://api-assembled.com) - Manufacturer and Supplier of parts for the Sebring Electric CitiCar, ComutaCar and Postal Van
Personal Electric Transports (http://www.evtransports.com/) - Designs alternative vehicle. Includes concepts, technical data and product overview.
Reva Electric Car Co. (http://www.revaindia.com/) - Makes Reva two door hatchback; 2 adults, 2 children; top speed: 65 kmph, range: 80 km. India's first electric car (EV), to be produced by the Maini Group.
Reva Romania (http://www.revaromania.ro) - Manufacturer of the Reva electric car.
Smith Electric Vehicles (http://www.smithelectricvehicles.com) - Manufacturer of electric vehicles for municipal, airports and urban delivery. Includes product overview and company profile.
Tanfield Group (http://www.tanfieldgroup.com) - Manufacturer of battery powered vehicles. Includes company profile and service overview.
Trans Lectric (http://www.translectric.com) -Manufacturer of electric vehicles for a variety of industrial uses. Includes product overview and company profile.
Tesla Motors (http://peswiki.com/index.php/Directory:Tesla_Motors,_Inc.) - developed the Tesla Roadster.
Twike Organisation (http://www.twike.com/) - Links to Twike related sites.

Venturi Automobiles (http://www.venturi.fr/) - French manufacturer of the Fetish (http://peswiki.com/index.php/Directory:Venturi_Automobiles).
Wavecrest (http://www.wavecrestlabs.com/) - Offers customized electric propulsion and drive system solutions. Includes company profile and product overview.
Wrightspeed Inc. (http://www.wrightspeed.com/) - Start up enterprise from Silicon Valley, California, which is creating high performance, electric powered, sports cars. Page includes company profile and details about the automobiles.
Zallys (http://www.zallys.com/) - Manufacturer of electric vehicles for agricultural and industrial applications. Includes company profile and product catalogue.
Zap! (http://www.zapworld.com/) - Distributor and manufacturer of bikes, 3-wheel cars and trucks, scooters soon to be known as "Detroit Electric".

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Government & Politics

Why GM Created then Destroyed the EV1 - Leslie R. Pastor argues that GM had a significant motive for scrapping the EV1: they intended to prolong the use of gasoline system engines in cooperation and collaboration with the International Oil Companies. (PESWiki; Mar. 4, 2008)

Who Killed the Electric Car? - Mary-Sue reviews this film about how California's forward-looking environmental legislation met Oil-zilla.

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Legal Background

Three More States Pass Medium Speed Electric Vehicles Regs (http://www.evworld.com/news.cfm?newsid=18543&url=) - three more states in the United States have passed laws that permit the operation of electric vehicles at speeds above the current federal LSEV regulation known as FMVSS 500, which is limited to 25 mph. (EV World; June 27, 2008)

Montana Enacts Law Enabling Medium-Speed Electric Vehicles (http://www.greencarcongress.com/2007/04/montana_enacts_.html) - Montana has signed into law a bill that allows neighborhood electric vehicles equipped with the proper safety features to travel up to 35 mph on city and county roads. NEVs previously were in the same category as golf carts, and were prohibited from travelling faster than 25 mph. The state of Washington (http://thedaily.washington.edu/article/2007/4/30/improvedDesignSafetyPromptsNewLegislationOnElectricCars) has passed a similar bill, but it has not yet been signed into law. (Green Car Congress; Apr. 24, 2007)

Electric Bicyle Laws (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electric_bicycle_laws)
Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards for Low Speed Vehicles (http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/cars/rules/rulings/lsv/lsv.html)
Under the Qualified Electric Vehicle Credit (http://www.motherearthnews.com/renewable_energy/2002_October_November/Clean__Green_Electric_Machines) (Internal Revenue Service Form 8834; www.irs.gov, current federal tax incentives offer up to a 10 percent credit based on the cost of an EV, up to $4,000 for each vehicle.
Tax Credits for NEVs and Rules & Regulations (http://www.commuterpage.com/electric_vehicles.htm)
3-Wheeler Laws and Regulations (http://www.3wheelers.com/lawusa.html) - United States of America

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Media

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Books

The Electric Car (http://www.altfuels.com/tec.php) provides a comprehensive picture of the history, current status, and likely future development of electric cars.

Build Your Own Electric Vehicle (http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0830642315/pureenergysys-20) by Bob Brant
Convert It! (http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1879857944/pureenergysys-20) - A step by step manual for converting an internal combustion vehicle to electric power.

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Historical Perspective

EV Archive (http://sloan.stanford.edu/evonline/welcome.htm) - The first online archive created to encourage electric vehicle enthusiasts to help preserve the recent history of electric vehicles.

1914 saw 60-MPG Galt Gas-Electric hybrid car (http://www.globeauto.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20070329.wh-enthusiasts-0329/BNStory/specialGlobeAuto/?query=) - Engineering masterpiece had a twin-cylinder, 10-hp, two-stroke engine that ran on gasoline and kerosene at a constant 800 rpm. The electricity generated was stored in four batteries located in running-board boxes. Could go up to 50 km/h with a range of 30 km on battery power alone. (Globe and Mail; Mar. 29, 2007)

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News Items

Google News Electric Vehicles (http://www.google.com/Top/Science/Technology/Energy/Transportation/Electric_Vehicles/)

Londoner tries out the new Th!nk city EV (http://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/02/29/londoner-gets-to-try-out-the-new-th-nk-city-ev/) - Th!nk (http://en.think.no/) is type approved in Europe as an actual car, has been crash tested and meets safety requirements. The lithium polymer battery will provide a range of 125 miles on a charge and the top speed is 65mph. It's fitted with air bags, seat belts and even ABS. Th!nk will be selling the car in the UK for £14,000. (AutoblogGreen; Feb. 29, 2008)

Miles EV Raises $15 Million for XS500 Electric Car (http://www.treehugger.com/files/2008/02/miles-15-million-xs500.php) - Miles Electric Vehicles (http://www.milesev.com/) has raised $15 million for further development of the XS500 electric car, the first highway-capable (80+ mph top speed, 120+ miles range) EV. The 2009 XS500 model is projected to sell for "$30,000 to $35,000" in the United States. (TreeHugger; Feb. 26, 2008)

Milner to Introduce E-REV Prototype (http://www.greencarcongress.com/2008/02/milner-to-intro.html) - Milner Motors (http://www.milnermotors.com/) ElectriCar is an Extended-Range Electric Vehicle, based on the design of the flying AirCar. It is a lightweight vehicle designed to cruise 100 miles on battery power at speeds up to 85 mph, after which the batteries will be charged by a gasoline-powered generator, achieving 100 mpg. (Green Car Congress; Feb. 24, 2008)

Plug-in Car Tech's Race to Production (http://www.popularmechanics.com/automotive/new_cars/4248082.html?page=1) - Flashy concepts and expensive, limited edition sports cars have made the plug-in car market an attractive one. Now major car companies from Detroit to Japan are outsourcing for chemistry and spending big bucks in-house to put low-cost, high-power packs of lithium-ion in larger production fleets by 2010 or 2011. (Popular Mechanics; Feb. 6, 2008)

Zotye electric SUV just 60 Days Away! (http://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/02/05/zotye-electric-suv-20-000-highway-speed-100-mile-range-and-j/) - Spark EV (http://www.spark-ev.com/) will be delivering the Zotye electric SUV in 60 DAYS and a "fuel cell" upgrade will be available this August. This highway-speed electric SUV will sell for $20,000 and have a 100-mile range! (AutoblogGreen; Feb. 5, 2008)

CAUTION: Note fraud / scam warnings in comments section of page.

Meet the duraCar Innovan, an EV van from the Netherlands (http://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/01/28/meet-the-duracar-innovan-an-ev-van-from-the-netherlands/) - The duraCar (http://www.duracar.nl/) Innovan is made from light recyclable fiber. The Dutch NEV van is aimed at companies who need to make local deliveries. Driving range is claimed to be 150 km (90 miles) thanks to the vehicle's low weight, and driving cost is very low: 3.5-4.7 cents a mile. (AutoblogGreen; Jan. 28, 2008)

Javlon from AllGreenVehicles, Miles' new EU distributer (http://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/01/22/new-picture-of-javlon-from-allgreenvehicles-miles-new-eu-distr/) - AllGreenVehicles (http://allgreenvehicles.com/) is Miles Electric's new EU distributer and I found a new picture of Javlon, a highly-anticipated electric car. The Miles Javlon may be the first normal looking electric car available in the U.S. (AutoblogGreen; Jan. 22, 2008)

JV for EVs in Thailand (http://www.greencarcongress.com/2008/01/leo-motors-and.html) - Leo Motors (http://www.leomotors.com/), based in Korea, and Global Electric Motor Cars Asia (http://www.gemcar.co.th/), based in Thailand, entering into a joint venture for the development of new electric vehicles. The first project is a 3-wheel electric motorcycle for the Thai Police Department. Leo Motors has developed a line of seven different EVs in the last two years. GEMA is the largest electric car dealer in Thailand. (Green Car Congress; Jan. 17, 2008)

2008 model of Flybo electric car will include heater (http://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/01/06/2008-model-of-flybo-electric-car-will-include-heater/) - Chinese Smart electric car clone FlyBo will have a heater added to the 2008 model. Great Lakes dealership in the U.S. is selling the Flybo and getting a lot of response from Florida and Arizona. Flybo has a range of 70 to 100 miles, top speed of 42 miles per hour and you can pick one up for $10,000. (AutoblogGreen; Jan. 6, 2008)

Kenguru, specialized electric car for disabled people (http://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/01/03/video-kenguru-specialized-electric-car-for-disabled-people/) - Kenguru, an electric car specifically designed for a wheelchair, has a large door at the back that opens by remote control. The Hungarian company Rehab Ltd. (http://www.rehabrt.hu/index.php?page=english) designed the Kenguru, which has a 35-mile range and a top speed of 25 miles per hour. The car is free in Hungary for qualified people and is expected to come to the United States for $14,500. (AutoblogGreen; Jan. 3, 2008)

Third-generation G-Wiz electric vehicle launched (http://www.gizmag.com/g-wiz-electric-vehicle/8491/) - UK electric vehicle retailer GoinGreen (http://www.goingreen.co.uk/) has announced the release of the latest incarnation of its G-Wiz range. Known as G-Wiz i, the emission free electric vehicle (EV) that has a certified top speed of 50mph, a range of up to 48 miles per charge and improved acceleration to 30mph. (GizMag; Jan. 2, 2008)

New York Mayor test drives Javlon EV in China (http://www.autobloggreen.com/2007/12/19/new-york-mayor-bloomberg-test-drives-miles-automotives-javlon-i/) - The first prototypes of Miles Automotive's (http://www.milesev.com/) full speed Javlon EV have come off the production line in China and New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg got a chance to test drive one of them. The prototypes will come to the states in a few months, followed by production units in early 2009 that will cost $35,000. (AutoblogGreen; Dec. 19, 2007)

Phillipine's all-electric Eagle G-car takes flight (http://www.autobloggreen.com/2007/12/05/phillipine-eagle-g-car-takes-flight/) - There's a new EV designed and made in the Philippines. It has a body made from fiberglass, is able to reach 60 km/h (about 35 mph) and able to run 80 km (50 miles) on a charge. Prices range from 140,000 to 280,000 pesos (about 3,300 to 6,600 USD). (AutoblogGreen; Dec. 5, 2007)

Tata to Launch Electric Indica in Europe by 2009 (http://www.greencarcongress.com/2007/11/report-tata-to.html) - India’s Tata Motors is targeting an electric version of the sub-compact Indica for the European market, slated to be launched by 2009. The company said that all-electric Indica would not suit the Indian scenario as the domestic market is yet to mature. (Green Car Congress; Nov. 22, 2007)

Minicar EV with Lithium-Polymer Pack has Range Up to 400km (http://www.greencarcongress.com/2007/11/minicar-ev-with.html) - Swiss engineering firm Kruspan Engineering (http://www.kruspan.ch/Projects/Hotzenblitz.htm) has modified an electric minicar—the Hotzenblitz, manufactured by Treffpunkt Zukunft (http://www.treffpunktzukunft.com/index_n.htm)—with a battery pack of Lithium Polymer (LiPo) cells from Kokam. The car now has a single-charge range of 350-400km (217-249 miles), compared to the 50-70 km delivered by the original lead-acid gel battery pack. Full speed is around 130km/h (81 mph), depending upon the motor drive system. (Green Car Congress; Nov. 21, 2007)

Electric Fiat Doblo conversion (http://www.autobloggreen.com/2007/10/12/altairnano-and-aerovironment-demonstrate-electric-fiat-doblo/) - Micro-Vett (http://www.micro-vett.it/eng/indexing.html) and Go Green Holding (http://www.go-green.no/) are testing an electrified Fiat Doblo powered by Altairnano's (http://www.altairnano.com/) lithium titanate battery. During a single day it ran 186 miles and underwent three 10-minute recharges with Aerovironment's (http://www.avinc.com/) charging system. They plan to distribute 20 vehicles this year and another 250 vehicles in 2008. (AutoblogGreen; Oct. 12, 2007)

Lithium-Powered Electric Car Now Available In U.K. (http://www.metaefficient.com/archives/cars/lithiumpowered-electric-car-now-available-in-uk.html) - Elettrica is the first production electric car on the UK market with the option of a lithium power supply. The car is said to provide almost twice the range of other small electric cars at 70 miles. It is available from Future Vehicles (http://www.futurevehicles.co.uk/), has an aluminium safety cage, disc brakes, front and rear impact bars and has undergone front and side crash-testing. (MetaEfficient)

Fiat Palio EVs to be tested in Brazil (http://www.autobloggreen.com/2007/08/16/fiat-palio-evs-to-be-tested-in-brazil/) - Brazilian electric utility Companhia Energetica de Minas Gerais (Cemig) is teaming up with Fiat to build a test fleet of battery-powered Fiat Palios. They will be building thirty of the cars powered by batteries from Swiss manufacturer KWO to start with at a price of $36,000. (AutoblogGreen; Aug. 16, 2007)

Th!nk could be back in the US as soon as 2008 (http://www.autobloggreen.com/2007/07/24/th-nk-could-be-back-in-the-us-as-soon-as-2008/) - Th!nk (http://en.think.no/) will begin production this fall at a plant in Norway and sales will begin in Scandinavia followed by England, Switzerland, the Netherlands and the US. If demand warrants, the former Ford-owned company is looking to expand production to other countries, possibly the UK, US or others. (AutoblogGreen; Jul. 24, 2007)

Superconductor electric airplanes (http://www.gizmag.com/go/7459/) - Scientists have unveiled research (http://www.iop.org/EJ/abstract/0953-2048/20/8/005) that would enable high-powered, ultra-reliable electromagnetic engines to be built for airplanes using lightweight superconductors and emission-free hydrogen fuel cells. These electric planes would be eco-friendly, exceptionally quiet, highly energy efficient and low maintenance. (Gizmag; Jun. 19, 2007)

Symphony Motors Moves Closer to Electric Car Launch (http://www.evworld.com/news.cfm?newsid=15422&url=) - Symphony Motors (http://www.symphonymotors.com/) will manufacture battery powered electric vehicles that will be mid-sized, safe, and capable of speeds well in excess of any posted limit. Their range will be from 75 miles to over 200 miles on a single charge. The ‘fuel’ for a battery electric car is roughly the equivalent to 35 cents per gallon of gasoline. (EVWorld; Jun. 12, 2007)

Hybrid Technologies EV video (http://www.autobloggreen.com/2007/05/25/hybrid-technologies-on-modern-marvels-video-clip/) - Hybrid Technologies is offering the six-minute segment (http://www.hybridtechnologies.com/multimedia.php?typeID=V&vidID=54) on the company's electric vehicles from the History Channel Modern Marvels "It came from Space" episode. It gives a quick history about lithium battery development at NASA and includes a view into the company's conversion process and some of their high speed long range electric vehicles. (AutoblogGreen; May 25, 2007)

Comet EV coming from China (http://www.autobloggreen.com/2007/05/11/comet-ev-coming-from-china-to-challence-the-ventureone/) - Comet (http://www.coloradoautoconnection.com/) is a new three-wheeled all-electric 3-passenger city vehicle from Flybo-EV (http://www.flybo-ev.com/), made of carbon fiber and Kevlar, with 'alloy' wheels also made of carbon fiber. It has a top speed of 90 mph and a potential 200-mile range (depending on battery pack), and a possible price tag of $30,000. (AutoblogGreen; May 11, 2006)

Miles Javlon XS500 all-electric sedan (http://www.autobloggreen.com/2007/04/03/afvi-show-tell-me-is-the-miles-javlon-30-000-all-electric-sed/) - Miles Automotive (http://www.milesautomotive.com/) rolled-out their all-electric, five-seat sedan with an 85 mph top speed and a 150+ mile range, that starts at $29,500. It has a 320 V, 25 kWh, 80 Ah lithium-ion battery that takes six hours to charge, and will become available for sale by the end of 2008. (AutoblogGreen; Apr. 3, 2007)

Cleanova testing Fiat Doblo EV (http://www.autobloggreen.com/2007/03/21/cleanova-ev-system-now-being-tested-on-fiat-doblo/) - Cleanova (http://www.cleanova.com/) is turning a Fiat Doblo (http://www.newteon.com/www2/content/view/25/30/) into an electric vehicle with a 120 km/h speed and 150 kms range, by combining a TM4 electric motor with lithium-ion batteries. The Cleanova system has already been tested on the Renault Kangoo (http://www.whatvan.co.uk/newvans_s.asp?id=3979) and adds about $10,000 to the cost of a vehicle. The FIAT Doblo Electricis (http://www.newteon.com/www2/content/view/25/30/) otherwise already available from Micro-Vett (http://www.micro-vett.it) and distributed in Europe by NEWTEON ecofriendly vehicles (http://www.newteon.com/) (AutoblogGreen; Mar. 21, 2007)

Directory:Aptera > Aptera's Prototype Unveiled (http://www.treehugger.com/files/2007/03/the_future_is_h.php) - Aptera Motors (http://apteramotors.com/) last week unveiled a working prototype of their diesel-electric hybrid car that will get 230 mpg at 55 mph. An all electric version will be available with a 150 mile range using NiZn batteries. Estimated price is $20,000. (TreeHugger; Mar. 15, 2007)

Electric Vans for French Post Office (http://thefraserdomain.typepad.com/energy/2007/03/electric_vans_f.html) - France's postal service used eight experimental electric-powered mail-delivery vans (http://www.cleanova.com/public/rubrique.tpl?id=8148&hl=FR) to meet a government requirement to reduce pollution. They worked so well and proved so cheap to operate that La Poste is planning to replace its 48,000-vehicle fleet with electric cars developed by Société de Véhicules Électriques (http://www.dassault.fr/filiale.php?docid=82). (The Energy Blog; Mar. 04, 2007)

The VentureOne Hybrid and EV: 100 MPH, 100 MPG (http://www.treehugger.com/files/2007/02/the-venture-one.php) - The VentureOne (http://www.flytheroad.com/) three-wheeler will be available as a hybrid with 300 mile range or as an all electric vehicle with 120 mile range. It seats two and is capable of 100 mph with 100 mpg fuel efficiency and can tilt almost 45º in turns. To be released in late 2008, priced in the $20,000 range. (TreeHugger; Feb. 16, 2007)

Production of Norwegian Think electric car to be resumed (http://www.norwaypost.no/cgi-bin/norwaypost/imaker?id=47778) - Around 500 el-powered vehicles will be produced at the Aurskog factory in 2007. Next year the production will be doubled. The new "Think" model will have improved batteries with a range of 180 km between charges and a top speed of around 100 km. (The Norway Post; Feb. 1, 2007)

Mullen Motor L1X-75 GT electric sports car available soon (http://www.autobloggreen.com/2007/01/30/mullen-motor-125-000-l1x-75-gt-all-electric-sports-car-it-s-no/) - The all-electric, 120 mph L1X-75 GT from Mullen Motor Company (http://www.mullenmotorco.com/) and Hybrid Technologies (http://www.hybridtechnologies.com/products.php?sec=1&id=3) will be available in about eight weeks. Compared to the Tesla Roadster, the L1X-75 GT costs more ($125,000 vs. $92,000-100,000), has less range (100 miles vs. 250) but it has one thing the Roadster doesn't have: availability. (AutoblogGreen; January 30, 2007)

ZAP and Lotus to Use APX for High-Performance Electric ZAP-X (http://www.greencarcongress.com/2007/01/zap_and_lotus_t.html#more) - ZAP and Lotus Engineering are beginning (http://www.zapworld.com/ZAPWorld.aspx?id=4472) a project to use the APX for a production-ready electric crossover vehicle in the US market. Aluminum architecture, a new efficient drive and advanced battery management should enable a range up to 350 miles, with a rapid 10-minute recharging time. An auxiliary power unit is planned to support longer distance journeys. (Green Car Congress; January 30, 2007)

- ZAP Acquires Interest in Electric Wheel Motor Company (http://www.zapworld.com/zap-acquires-wheel-motor-company) - ZAP has been granted exclusive rights to the wheel motors under the agreement for international distribution. (ZAP News; Jun e2, 29 008)

MotivNation will introduce 'light electric vehicles' (http://www.autobloggreen.com/2007/01/29/motivnation-will-introduce-new-line-of-light-electric-vehicles/) - MotivNation (http://www.MotivNation.com), a company based in Orange County, California, will introduce (http://www.theautochannel.com/news/2007/01/26/035170.html#) a light electric vehicle through its Damon's (http://www.damonsmc.com/gallery/v/cars/) division. MotivNation CEO George Lefevre says the product will feature an innovative motor, controller, battery and manufacturing techniques. Damon's is best known for its painting and graphics on cars and motorcycles. (AutoblogGreen; January 29, 2007)

High Speed Electric Car Promised (http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/News/articleId=119247) - At the National Auto Dealers Association convention in February, Miles Automotive (http://www.milesautomotive.com/) expects to unveil its latest Chinese electric car, the "high speed" XS500 (http://www.milesautomotive.com/showroom_xs200.php). A lithium-ion battery pack will enable a speed up to 80 miles per hour and a range of 150 miles. It will go on sale in late 2008, priced from around $30,000. (Inside Line; January 17, 2007)

Nova Technologies Pursuing Self-Charging Vehicle Technology (http://pesn.com/Radio/Free_Energy_Now/shows/2006/12/30/9700220_Nova_Technologies/) - Institute claims to be developing a "self-recharging electric vehicle, capable of converting ambient energy sources into usable electrical power efficiently enough to power a 1,500 pound vehicle at highway speeds for unlimited distances without the combustion of any kind of fuel or emission of any exhaust." (PESN; Dec. 30, 2006)

Marin residents make their own electric vehicles (http://www.marinij.com/marin/ci_4901466) - Scavenging electric forklift motors and trading circuit-board secrets in Internet discussion groups, the E-tinkerers are hot-rodding electric vehicles behind anonymous suburban garage doors. "People who are interested in electric vehicles have had to go the do-it-yourself way for many years now," Ron Gremban says. (Marin Independent Journal; December 26, 2006)

Gas, Electric and Hybrid Go Head to Head in LCA (http://www.treehugger.com/files/2006/12/gas_electric_an.php) - A short review (http://www.ilea.org/lcas/taharaetal2001.html) of an Life Cycle Analysis compares the CO2 emissions from the manufacture and use phases of petroleum, electric and hybrid cars. The petroleum car uses less CO2 during manufacture, but the electric and hybrid cars comes out on top when used for transportation. (TreeHugger; December 23, 2006)

Think to sell electric car over internet (http://www.askaprice.com/torque-article.asp?article=Think_to_sell_electric_car_over_internet&item=2475) - A new version of the TH!NK (http://www.think.no/), formerly owned by Ford, will be introduced in London this autumn, likely to be sold over the internet from a single site. The two-seater cars are made from a tough thermoplastic and the standard kit includes ABS, power steering and electric windows and manages 80 miles on full batteries. (motortorque; December 19, 2006)

PHEVs Have Little Impact on Electric Power System (http://thefraserdomain.typepad.com/energy/2006/12/phevs_have_litt.html) - A new study for the Department of Energy finds that idle capacity in the existing electric power system could generate most of the electricity consumed by plug-in hybrid electric vehicles. The study presumes that drivers would charge up overnight when demand for electricity is much lower and that the cars would be driven 33 miles per day, the national average. (The Energy Blog; December 11, 2006)

Why We Need Electric Cars (http://www.motherearthnews.com/Green-Transportation/2006-10-01/Why_We_Need_Electric_Cars) - Electric Vehicles have overwhelming advantages over gasoline vehicles in fuel cost, emissions and energy independence. Solar recharged electric vehicles are 50 to 3,000 times more efficient than burning biofuels, based on sun to wheel energy conversion rates. (Mother Earth News; October/November 2006)

Currie to build LEVs using Fallbrook’s NuVinci™ CVP (http://www.fallbrooktech.com/05_PressReleases_currie.asp) - Currie Technologies will expand its IZIP™ (http://www.currietech.com/html/izipCatalog/CTI_izipMainProd.html) product line to include hybrid electric bicycles and electric scooters combining the Currie Electro-Drive™ with the NuVinci CVP (http://www.fallbrooktech.com/NuVinci.asp) continuously variable planetary transmission (http://peswiki.com/index.php/Directory:Transmissions) . As a result, a new vehicle category will be created – a family of light electric vehicles whose enhanced performance makes them a practical alternative to gas-powered vehicles. (Fallbrook Technologies; September 12, 2006)

Smart Shows Zero-Emissions Vehicle (http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/News/articleId=116186) - Smart has unveiled an electric version of its Fortwo city car, which will be supplied to corporate customers in the UK. Power is provided by a liquid sodium nickel-chloride battery. It provides a range of up to 72 miles when fully charged. The top speed of the car has been limited to 70 mph. (Inside Line; July 20, 2006)

OBVIO! to Introduce Electric Cars to North America (http://www.greencarcongress.com/2006/07/obvio_to_introd.html) - Brazilian automotive company OBVIO! (http://www.obvio.ind.br/obviona/home.htm) will deve