After attending the latest Carbon Trust Wales Annual Conference, RUMM Energy Manager, James Carberry was fortunate enough to win a week’s ‘free’ motoring in the 100% electric Nissan Leaf courtesy of Wessex Garages.
Ok, so it wasn’t exactly free but with solar panels installed at home thanks to the Government’s FiT scheme, James was soon coasting around South Wales at a fraction of the cost of petrol motoring. He was easily able to fit a return trip to work (20 miles), visit to local clients (36 miles) and a much needed trip to the pub (distance hazy) into a single charge.
After some initial scepticism from the RUMM team, a quick test ride in the Leaf soon changed their tone. With a maximum range of 110 miles, a 0-60mph time of around 7 seconds and an equivalent fuel efficiency of 350mpg the Leaf is certainly turning heads and breaking the stigma of electric vehicle limitations.
The trial conveniently coincided with Mr Cameron’s announcement of an imminent strike from fuel distribution companies causing a spate of panic buying at the pumps. Amongst all the commotion a rather smug Energy Manager cruised past, albeit rather quietly.
Of course there is still plenty of work to be done in improving factors such as range and charging time and also reducing technology costs. However, with government grants of up to £5,000 for individuals willing to invest in the technology and next generation vehicles looking likely to have ranges around 200 miles the future looks bright for electric vehicles.
It may not be long before RUMM’s ‘current’ Energy Team, ‘leaf’ their petrol power days behind them and are kitted out with a whole fleet of electric vehicles.
PDF