An old classic gets a modern makeover

One of Jaguar's most iconic cars, the E-Type, is set to make a comeback with a new electric version approved to go into production, and available to buy from summer 2020. 

No doubt spurred on by the fact that Prince Harry whisked his new bride, Megan Markle,  to their wedding reception in an E-Type Zero back in May, Jaguar Land Rover announced that Jaguar Classic – a unit of the firm that specialises in restoring vintage models – will convert E-Types to electric power at its Classic Works facility in Coventry. 

"We've been overwhelmed by the positive reaction to the Jaguar E-Type Zero concept. Future-proofing the enjoyment of classic car ownership is a major stepping stone for Jaguar Classic. The E-Type Zero showcases the incredible heritage of the E-Type, and the expertise and craftsmanship of Classic Works, while demonstrating Jaguar Land Rover's dedication to creating Zero emission vehicles across every part of the business, including Jaguar Classic."

– Tim Hannig, Jaguar Land Rover Classic Director. 

For those hoping to turn their classic eco-friendly, an EV conversion service for existing E-Type owners will also be offered. To preserve the authenticity of the base vehicle, the EV conversion will be fully reversible.

The concept

The idea behind the Jaguar E-Type Zero is that not only will it drive, handle, ride, brake and look like an E-Type, it will also offer quicker acceleration than the original Series 1 E-Type. Jaguar Classic plans to target a range in excess of 170 miles for all-electric E-Types, helped by the car's low kerb weight and aerodynamics. The concept vehicle is powered by a 40kWh battery, which can be recharged in six to seven hours. 

An electric powertrain with single-speed reduction has been specially designed for the E-Type, utilising many Jaguar I-PACE components. Its lithium-ion battery pack has the same dimension, and similar weight, to the standard E-Type's six-cylinder petrol XK engine, and is in the same location.  The electric motor lies just behind the battery pack, in place of the E-Type's gearbox. 

An electric powertrain with similar weight and dimensions to the outgoing petrol engine and transmission means that the car's structure, including suspension and brakes, has not changed. This simplifies the conversion, keeping the driving experience in line with the original vehicle. 

We're still quite a way off from these environmentally friendly E-Types, so to tide you over until then, why not check out our latest book on the model? Jaguar E-Type Factory and Private Competition Cars takes a detailed look at the racing E-Type: an exciting and important aspect of Jaguar's history. And who knows, maybe an E-Type Zero will be seen at races of the future? 

MORGAN LAUNCHES EV3

The Morgan EV3 today makes its world debut at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show. The EV3 looks at the world of zero emissions motoring from an entirely different perspective, what if an all-electric vehicle was bespoke, hand crafted and exhilarating to drive? The EV3 embraces new technology, delivers responsible driving excitement and continues to celebrate traditional British craftsmanship.

Following a soft launch of the Phase 1 concept EV3 in 2015, Morgan is excited to showcase the final “pre-production phase” car which reveals the restyled body and interior. Weighing less than 500kg, the all-electric 3 Wheeler has a range of 150 miles.

Lightweight agility is complemented by performance figures that challenge those of the petrol 3 Wheeler. 0-62mph takes less than 9 seconds and a top speed in excess of 90mph. Encased within the tubular space frame chassis is a 20KWh Lithium Battery and a liquid cooled 46kW motor driving the rear wheel.

The EV3 is the first Morgan vehicle to utilise composite carbon panels in its body construction. The carbon bonnet, tonneau cover and side pods are made in the UK, and much like the remaining aluminium panels, are hand worked over an ash wood frame. Taking inspiration from 1930’s aeroengine race cars, classic motorcycles and 1950’s fantasy automatons, the face of the EV3 is designed to function. Brass conductive cooling fins encase the batteries and an off-centre tri-bar headlight adds to the overall asymmetry of the design.

The dramatic tail lift once seen on 1930’s Morgan 3 Wheeler race cars, has been re-introduced, subsequently creating a visually forward stance. This is enhanced with low slung running lights that carry through the cylindrical form of the side pods. An entirely new dashboard arrangement features a classic ‘magneto’ switch for drive selection, a digital screen, wood, brass and polished aluminium. The EV3 will go into production in the fourth quarter of 2016 and will be priced comparably to the petrol 3 Wheeler. This launch coincides with an announcement that the Morgan Motor Company will receive government funding towards a £6m consortium based project developing future hybrid and full EV Morgan vehicles.

More info: Morgan Motor Company



– AVAILABLE FROM VELOCE –

The Morgan 3 Wheeler – back to the future! by Peter Dron.
Revealing why Morgan returned to its original 3 Wheeler concept after a century. How the new 3 Wheeler was created, became a best-seller, and was made, this book shows what it’s like to drive, strengths, weaknesses, and factory improvements made since the 2011 launch – from modifications, possible developments, and even why it is – or isn't – your kind of vehicle. More info.

Making a Morgan – 17 days of craftmanship: step-by-step from specification sheet to finished car by Andreas & Dagmar Hensing.

A look at Morgan’s unique way of making cars, recorded step-by-step over 17 days. From customer’s specification sheet, to finished car, see how individual craftsmen build a Morgan. More info.

ENTRIES OPEN FOR THE RAC FUTURE CAR CHALLENGE 2012 WITH NEW WAYS FOR MANUFACTURERS TO GET INVOLVED

Gordon Murray Design T.27 - Overall Winner 2011
Entries for the third annual RAC Future Car Challenge, which takes place on Saturday 3 November, are now being invited and for this year there are even more opportunities for manufacturers to get involved with the Challenge and events linked to it, such as the Regent Street Motor Show. The event, which is owned by the Royal Automobile Club, and sponsored by RAC Motoring Services, was first introduced in 2010 to showcase low energy use vehicles. It features competitors driving electric, hybrid, hydrogen and low-emission conventional petrol and diesel cars on a 63-mile route from Brighton to London. Now recognized as the world's leading low-energy driving challenge, the event is unique in being free to the public to spectate and a real-world test of current and future vehicle technology.

The RAC Future Car Challenge is increasingly important as awareness of low energy use and low emission vehicles begins to grow rapidly. Overall, UK new car sales rose by 7.9 per cent in May 2012 compared to the same month last year – with significant growth of 31.8 per cent of sales of hybrid petrol-electric, electric-only and range-extended cars. A spokesman for the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) said: "Every car manufacturer is going to have a hybrid model on its lists by the end of this year, even Ferrari."

Each year an increasing number of entries have come from motor manufacturers (large and small), individuals and research institutes. As well as vehicles currently in production, there have been many taking part that will not be on sale for three or four years – truly future cars.

The overall winner of 2011 was the T.27 built and entered by Gordon Murray Design. Murray was thrilled, speaking after the event he said: “This is the first time we've showcased the T.27 on the UK roads. This is the only event in the world that demonstrates real cars, in real conditions and where energy used is measured independently and the information made available to the public. It’s a fantastic showcase for technology and the Royal Automobile Club should be proud of the event."

As David Bizley, RAC Technical Director, says “This has become a leading event in the UK motoring calendar and arguable one of the most significant events in Europe for showcasing low-carbon technology and an inspiration for the next generation of engineers. “We are delighted to once again be sponsors of the Future Car Challenge. We see the event as playing a vital role in helping motorists understand the new technology that is becoming available and help them save money and benefit the environment.”

Ben Cussons, Chairman of the Royal Automobile Club Motoring Committee, says: "In just a couple of years the RAC Future Car Challenge has emerged as the most important annual motoring event for showcasing the vehicles people will be driving in years to come. The support from major motor manufacturers worldwide has been tremendous and many of them have already expressed their intention to enter the 2012 Challenge."

This year, in response to the increasing level of interest in the event, there has been a major increase in the number of awards categories. There is now a very wide range of categories, totalling 26 – 13 for Production Vehicles and 13 for Prototype Vehicles. The awards for Production Vehicles and for Prototype Vehicles include Most Energy Efficient vehicles by size and type (saloon, sports car, light commercial vehicle etc.) and best electric, extended range, hybrid, hydrogen and internal combustion engine vehicles.

In increasing the number of award categories, the organisers have ensured that performance comparisons with the 2011 event can still be made easily. Publication of the energy used by each vehicle taking part (in accordance with strict measurement protocols) is one of the unique features of the RAC Future Car Challenge – members of the public can see exactly how energy efficient the cars are under real-world driving conditions because of the easily interpreted measurement technology used. Entries forms are available to download from the dedicated event website, together with the regulations and full details of the vehicle categories: www.futurecarchallenge.com

In another significant innovation for this year's running of the event, a revised 63 mile route has been selected with the finish line moved to Regent Street – where the Regent Street Motor Show will be held. This free motor show provides all day displays of future technology and even the chance to drive an electric car in Mayfair. The show is a unique platform for manufacturers to display and demonstrate their new and future 'green' vehicles and developments to members of the public.

Electric car charging experts British Gas return this year as the official energy and electric vehicle charging partner, helping those taking part in the Future Car Challenge to charge their cars easily, quickly and safely.

The RAC Future Car Challenge is one of three flagship events owned by the Royal Automobile Club taking place on the weekend of 3 and 4 November 2012. The other two are the London to Brighton Veteran Car Run, the world's longest running motoring event, and the Regent Street Motor Show. Together they make for the largest free-to-spectate annual motoring spectacular in the UK, if not the world.

Source: RAC

DISCOVER THE AMAZING WORLD WITHIN YOUR CAR’S SKIN!

A new book in the RAC handbook series

Do you know how your car works? This book dissects and explains one of the finest inventions ever made. Written in a simple, jargon-free language and packed with illustrations and cutaways, it will suit everyone from a pupil with a poster of a supercar on his wall, to a housewife who is just curious about the goings-on beneath her car’s bonnet to even the more experienced tinkering mechanic. It is a simple operating guide to the main parts of a car, its systems and safety devices. A must for all new and current car owners with little knowledge of what goes on under the bonnet!
Whether you're just curious, or wish to become a more knowledgable car owner, this book will start you on an exciting journey of discovery.

What's inside a hybrid car. 1 Gearbox, 2 Internal combustion engine, 3 Idle shutdown system, 4 Battery pack, 5 Electric motor, 6 Electric power management unit (courtesy Peugeot).

How your car works – Your guide to the components & systems of modern cars, including hybrid & electric vehicles by Arvid Linde. AVAILABLE NOW! £12.99, $24.95.

The RAC handbook series (Caring for your cars bodywork & interior is a 2012 title) –

NISSAN TO GIVE LINCOLN A PUBLIC PLUG

Nissan is to fund the installation of Lincoln’s first public electric vehicle charging point, following the recent Top Gear feature which highlighted the lack of charging infrastructure in the East Midlands city.

In the television programme, presenters Jeremy Clarkson and James May drove a pair of electric vehicles, including the Nissan LEAF, into the centre of Lincoln in an attempt to find somewhere to charge their cars.

Having failed to find any public infrastructure the pair were forced to charge at the University in the centre of the city, dangling cables through an open window.

Should the presenters choose to attempt the journey again in future, they will discover a newly-installed PodPoint charging unit dedicated to them. With two sockets, it would allow both Jeremy and James to recharge their batteries at the same time.

Charging will be free of charge to electric vehicle owners.

Councillor Fay Smith, Portfolio Holder for Environmental Services and Public Protection at the City of Lincoln Council, said: "The Top Gear programme highlighted the fact that Lincoln does not currently provide for electric cars and we're really pleased that Nissan is now funding a charging point. We're committed to reducing the city's carbon footprint, but know that we can't do it alone, so it's great that private businesses like Nissan are getting behind this and putting in the infrastructure."

The PodPoint charging unit is due to be installed before the end of the month and the presenters will be invited to return to Lincoln and be the first to plug in to the new charger.

Top Gear Executive Producer Andy Wilman said: "This is excellent news for the electric car community of Lincoln. If the charging point had existed when Top Gear were there, James wouldn't now be walking around with Jeremy's name tattooed on his bottom. Still, better late than never."

Nissan’s Executive Vice President Andy Palmer said: “Research tells us that most LEAF owners will charge their car at home or at their place of work, but drivers like having the ability to ‘top up’ their charge when they are out and about, especially if they are making longer journeys. With its new charging points and the fame generated by Top Gear, Lincoln could find itself becoming a tourist destination for Nissan LEAF owners.”

Source: Nissan

Electric Cars – The Future is Now!
By Arvid Linde
Written by Arvid Linde, winner of the headlineauto 2010 award for ‘Rising Star of Year.'

What if we all had to say goodbye to petrol cars tomorrow? Would you be ready? This book will help you find out. With a concise catalogue covering the best production models and the most promising prototypes, this book is the definitive guide to the future of motoring.

Click here for more info about the book.

THE AGE OF ELECTRIC MOTORING IN EUROPE

The first regular shipment of 100% electric Nissan LEAFs bound for Europe arrived in North East England on 3rd February.

The 67 Nissan LEAFs aboard the ‘City of St. Petersburg', Nissan's brand new energy-saving car carrier for transporting vehicles in Europe, are destined for customers in the UK and Ireland and will be unloaded from the Port of Tyne as the carrier completes its maiden voyage.

"The arrival of the Nissan LEAF, the world's first affordable, all-electric car, in Europe is a landmark day for Nissan and European transport. The Nissan LEAF is a genuine alternative to petrol and diesel cars in terms of style, features, safety, performance and handling," said Simon Thomas, senior vice president of sales and marketing at Nissan International SA, Nissan's European headquarters.

"It is fitting that this first shipment of Nissan LEAFs is arriving on our new energy-saving car carrier, the City of St. Petersburg. We look forward to delivering these cars to the very first Nissan LEAF customers, who share our vision for an environmentally sustainable future for road transport," he added.

The City of St. Petersburg has a sleek and semi-spherical bow which reduces wind resistance by up to 50%, resulting in fuel reductions of up to 800 tonnes annually, equivalent to about 2,500 tonnes of CO2 emissions. The carrier will join the fleet of ships which export hundreds of thousands of vehicles from Nissan Sunderland Plant each year.

UK customers have been able to pre-order the Nissan LEAF since September 2010 ahead of deliveries starting in the coming weeks. Pre-orders for the Nissan LEAF, which is powered by an advanced lithium-ion battery, have reached more than 27,000 units globally. The zero-emission car is currently built in Japan, but will be manufactured in Sunderland from 2013, following the start of production of lithium-ion batteries for such cars at the plant in 2012.

A comprehensive charging network is currently under development in the UK. North East England alone will have 1,300 charge points by 2013, including quick chargers capable of refuelling a Nissan LEAF from when the empty warning light switches onto an 80% charge in just under 30 minutes. Nissan's network of EV dealers - currently 25 sites across the UK - will all be equipped with a quick charger.

Across the UK there are programmes under way to install around 9,000 charge points by 2013.

Nissan research has found that 80% of daily driving in Britain is below 30 miles. With the Nissan LEAF's ability to carry five passengers up to 109 miles (175 km) under the New European Driving Cycle, its arrival in Europe marks a significant development in the environmentally-friendly, cost efficient options available for motorists.

Source: Nissan.

THE consumer guide to electric cars is available now!

Electric Cars – The Future is Now!
By Arvid Linde
Winner of the headlineauto 2010 award for ‘Rising Star of Year.'

What if we all had to say goodbye to petrol cars tomorrow? Would you be ready? This book will help you find out. With a concise catalogue covering the best production models and the most promising prototypes, this book is the definitive guide to the future of motoring.

Click here for more info about the book.

ELEKTROBAY CHARGES BBC EV RUN FROM LONDON TO EDINBURGH

The availability of a £5,000 Government grant towards the purchase of a new electric vehicle (EV) from 4 January onwards has prompted BBC Breakfast correspondent Brian Milligan to embark on a 400-mile drive in an EV from London to Edinburgh. Milligan will recharge his EV at nine different roadside EV charging stations, seven of which are innovative Elektrobays, designed, manufactured and maintained by Brighton-based Elektromotive. The company has helped Milligan to plan his route with their innovative EB Connect networking software and has issued him with the necessary wireless access keys required for his epic journey.

The anticipated increase of EVs on UK roads in 2011, resulting from an influx of new production EVs coupled with the Government grant, is expected to highlight the growing need for a comprehensive nationwide charging infrastructure.

Milligan will begin his EV challenge on Monday 10 January from London and travel to nine separate charging point locations before reaching his final destination on Friday 14 January. Throughout the week Milligan’s progress will be followed by BBC Breakfast viewers.

“It will be interesting to see how Brian grapples with the practicalities of powering an EV over such a long distance,” comments Elektromotive Managing Director, Calvey Taylor-Haw. “At present, undertaking such a trip in an EV takes quite some planning, as recharging points are still relatively low in number and are concentrated in a few major cities. We wish Brian the best of luck for his journey, and are confident that his experiences will highlight how Elektromotive is driving the fledgling EV revolution.”

To find out more about Elektromotive and the Elektrobay, please visit www.elektromotive.com.

Electric Cars – The Future is Now!
By Arvid Linde

What if we all had to say goodbye to petrol cars tomorrow? Would you be ready? This book will help you find out. With a concise catalogue covering the best production models and the most promising prototypes, this book is the definitive guide to the future of motoring. More info.

ELECTRIC CAR REVOLUTION REVS UP FOR 2011

The Government drove the UK firmly into the fast lane of the electric and ultra-low emission car revolution today as Ministers unveiled nine trailblazing models that will be eligible for generous grants of up to £5,000.
Transport Secretary Philip Hammond and Business Minister Mark Prisk announced the milestone which could make 2011 the year of the electric car for the UK - and revealed five more regions that will be installing local charging points having successfully bid for a share of a £20m fund.

From January, the motoring map of the country will start to be redrawn as government and car industry work in partnership to give drivers a wide choice of clean, green transport.

The first nine cars to become eligible for eco-friendly car grants are: Mitsubishi iMiEV; smart fortwo electric drive; Peugeot iON; Citroen CZero; Nissan Leaf; Tata Vista EV; Toyota Prius Plug-in; Vauxhall Ampera and Chevrolet Volt. More will follow next year.

The grant will be available to motorists across the UK from 1 January 2011, reducing the cost of eligible cars by a quarter, up to a maximum of £5,000.

The Government is also encouraging a new network of electric vehicle recharging points in streets, car parks and commercial retail and leisure facilities as driving electric cars becomes a part of everyday life for pioneering British drivers. The successful bidding consortia in this second phase are based in: the Midlands; Greater Manchester; East of England; Scotland and Northern Ireland.

Transport Secretary Philip Hammond said:

"A few years ago, ultra-low emission cars with mass market appeal appeared just a pipe dream. Now they are a reality and we can have all the convenience of the car without all the carbon that normally goes with it.

"Government action to support affordable vehicles and more local charging points means we are on the threshold of an exciting green revolution - 2011 could be remembered as the year the electric car took off.

"The British public has in the past shown it's ready to embrace new technology and take practical steps to adopt a lifestyle kinder to the environment, so we could really be at the start of something big."

Business Minister Mark Prisk said:

"Today's news that motorists will be able to choose from at least nine cars under the consumer incentive scheme and that we are expanding the infrastructure for charging electric vehicles will further reinforce the message that the UK is Europe's leading producer of ultra low carbon vehicles."

Today's announcement further confirms the UK as a global front runner in the market for ultra-low emission cars and open for business for hi-tech green manufacturing. This builds on Nissan's decision to produce the Leaf in Sunderland and the work the Automotive Council is doing to improve the way Government works with industry.

Source: Department for Transport

New! Electric Cars – The Future is Now!
Written by Arvid Linde, winner of the headlineauto 2010 award for ‘Rising Star of Year.

What if we all had to say goodbye to petrol cars tomorrow? Would you be ready? There might be several reasons why you’re holding this book in your hand. Concern about the environment, determination to cut your fuel bill, or simply curiosity. Whatever the reason, the answer is within. This consumer guide is for housewives, petrol-heads, pedestrians, green activists, everyone – but most importantly, it’s for YOU. It will introduce the electric car to potential advocates and opponents, revealing all the pros and cons. Is such a vehicle really what it promises to be - the perfect answer to the fuel crisis and environmental issues? Will your next car be electric? This book will help you find out. More info.

BLUEBIRD FLIES AGAIN: NEW RECORD ATTEMPT

Don Wales, holder of the UK Land Speed Record for an electric car, announced today (Tuesday 9 November) that he will attempt to break his own electric record and exceed the outright record set by his grandfather, Sir Malcolm Campbell, in 1925 in the early spring of 2011.

Speaking after successfully completing the RAC Brighton to London Future Car Challenge in a hybrid car, Wales said: "I have held the record for over ten years and it's now looking very vulnerable. I want to set the UK record well beyond 150mph – the speed Sir Malcolm clocked in 1925. Ideally, I'd like to match his record of 1927 – 175mph."

The attempt is part of the Campbell family celebration year of the centenary of Sir Malcolm Campbell first christening a car Bluebird at Brooklands in 1911.

Don Wales and the Bluebird Electric Team set the current record of 139mph in August 2000 on Pendine Sands, Wales. They will return to Pendine Sands – the venue for Sir Malcolm's successful land speed record attempts in the 1920s – in spring of 2011.

Wales also has plans to attempt a new world land speed record for a battery car and has his sights set on 500mph, and is currently evaluating several design options. He says: "At last the world is making real progress with electric vehicles as a viable alternative to the internal combustion engine. Ten years ago electric vehicles were unheard of in the news, and people couldn’t understand the importance of electric car technology. Now there's a whole new generation of electric road cars in production. The UK is a world leader in automotive technology, particularly in the cutting edge and highly competitive field of motor sport, and Land speed record projects have a history of boosting technological developments which is why I'm planning a world beating battery car”.

Project Director Martin Rees said "Don's ambition to be the fastest in the world is a goal we are all working hard to achieve and his recent speed record breaking exploits, and those we achieved in the electric Bluebird ten years ago, are testament to his undoubted dedication and commitment to excellence". Rees added, "Taking the car back to Pendine next Spring with improved drive and bodywork will be another chapter in the Campbell and Wales and Pendine story.”

Don Wales, who is the nephew of Donald Campbell – another famous record breaker – has clearly inherited the quest for speed. In May this year he twice broke the world land speed record for a lawnmower leaving it at 87.833mph. He also holds the world record for a steam powered car (148mph) as a member of Charles Burnett III's British Steam car team at Edwards Airforce base in August 2009.

Source: Bluebird Electric Team

New books from Veloce!
Bluebird CN7 - The inside story of Donald Campbell’s last Land Speed Record car
By Donald Stevens
Records the development, construction and operation of the last wheel-driven land speed record breaking car that the UK produced, and tells how the tragic demise of Donald Campbell prevented it from reaching its full potential. A unique account of a legendary feat of engineering.
More info.



Electric Cars – The Future is Now!
By Arvid Linde
What if we all had to say goodbye to petrol cars tomorrow? Would you be ready? This book will help you find out. With a concise catalogue covering the best production models and the most promising prototypes, this book is the definitive guide to the future of motoring. More info.

VELOCE AUTHOR ARVID LINDE WINS AWARD

Congratulations to Arvid Linde who has won the headlineauto 2010 award for RISING STAR OF THE YEAR (TRADE)!

Arvid Linde is a car engineer from Estonia, with an MSc in Engineering and Logistics. Electric cars and other means of alternative transportation are his favourite subjects. Having successfully completed his Masters project on Electric Car Economy, and following extensive research in the field, he is now editing an independent green motoring blog at electriccarnews.co.uk.

Arvid has been known to take a rather sceptical stance on electric cars, but in this book he shows, even-handedly, both their good and bad sides; ultimately encouraging people to embrace the future of green motoring.

Headlineauto describe Arvid's writing style: "Grabs his readers by the throat, throws them against a wall and pummels them with facts until his point is hammered home."




Electric Cars - The Future is now published in summer 2010 is his first first book title in the English language and is referred to by headlineauto as "The consumer guide to the world of green motoring."

What if we all had to say goodbye to petrol cars tomorrow? Would you be ready? This book will help you find out. With a concise catalogue covering the best production models and the most promising prototypes, this book is the definitive guide to the future of motoring.

Look out for Arvid's next book for Veloce Preston Tucker & Others – Tales of brilliant automotive innovators & innovations.

AUTOMOTIVE NEWS: ELECTRIC CARS ROUND-UP

Lots of electric car stories in the motoring news this week ...

PLUG-IN CAR GRANT ENCOURAGES SAFER VEHICLES

RoadSafe supports the stringent standards set for the Plug-In Car Grant, which will offer motorists up to £5000 to buy qualifying electric, plug-in or hydrogen fuelled cars.
To be eligible, cars must be crash tested and meet the same safety standards as regular internal combustion vehicles. Many of these already have higher safety standards than the tests require. They will also have to meet minimum range and performance criteria.

RoadSafe director Adrian Walsh said, "It is quite right that plug-ins meet the same safety criteria as other cars. We fully support this government initiative, which encourages so much innovation, led by the auto industry, to create safer, greener cars."

The safety standards will set electric cars apart from quadricycles, which only have to meet the same standards as three wheeled motorbikes. Government hopes the incentive will bring the ideal of mass-market electric vehicles closer to reality.
Source: Roadsafe

GOVERNMENT PLEDGES £24 MILLION ELECTRIC CAR INVESTMENT

The Government is to invest £24 million in developing electric vehicles has been welcomed by Friends of the Earth, but the campaigning charity warned that more must be done to cut the transport sector's massive contribution to climate change.
Transport Secretary Phillip Hammond has pledged the cash to fund the development of new engines, technology and infrastructure that will eventually enable more motorists to use electric vehicles.

Mr Hammond said today that he wants the current Government to be 'the greenest ever', and hopes the investment will both reduce the carbon emissions from car travel and provide a timely boost to this growth industry.

Friends of the Earth Transport Campaigner Richard Dyer said:

"Electric cars can help reduce carbon emissions from transport and Government support for this new industry is welcome - however, these vehicles won't do enough on their own to cut transport's contribution to climate change.

"Furthermore, electric cars are only as green as the power they use.

Ministers must ensure that more of our electricity comes from renewable sources.

"The Government must rapidly cut carbon emissions from transport if it is to be the greenest Government ever.

"More than half of all car journeys are under five miles - the Government must support councils to introduce local schemes that will encourage people to walk, cycle and use public transport for these short journeys.

"Bold policies are urgently needed to tackle these emissions."
Source: Friends of the Earth

ELECTRIC DREAMS MOVE A STEP CLOSER TO REALITY

Mass market electric cars moved a step closer today as Transport Secretary Philip Hammond awarded £24 million to further develop the UK's low carbon vehicle capability.
The six winning projects - which together with contributions from business will receive total funding of £52m - are part of the latest Technology Strategy Board competition. Projects include the development of new engines for plug-in hybrid versions of Nissan, Lotus and Jaguar Land Rover cars, a lightweight electric bin wagon, development of lightweight materials for vehicle weight reduction, and new technologies using thermal energy to improve vehicle performance.

The Government also set out the eligibility criteria for its Plug-in Car Grant. Under the scheme motorists will receive a grant of up to £5,000 to purchase electric, plug-in hybrid or hydrogen fuelled cars. In order to be eligible, cars must meet appropriate safety standards and must have been crash tested. They must also meet minimum range and performance criteria.

The Government believes that this combined support will place the UK at the forefront of low carbon automotive development and provide a vital economic boost for the UK economy by giving us a key competitive advantage in this increasingly important global market.
Source: Department for Transport

New! The first publication to be produced on behalf of the RAC by Veloce Publishing.
Electric Cars – The Future is Now!
By Arvid Linde

All you really need to know about electric cars!

More info about the book.

ELECTRIC DREAMS MOVE A STEP CLOSER TO REALITY

Mass market electric cars moved a step closer today as Transport Secretary Philip Hammond awarded £24 million to further develop the UK's low carbon vehicle capability. The six winning projects - which together with contributions from business will receive total funding of £52m - are part of the latest Technology Strategy Board competition. Projects include the development of new engines for plug-in hybrid versions of Nissan, Lotus and Jaguar Land Rover cars, a lightweight electric bin wagon, development of lightweight materials for vehicle weight reduction, and new technologies using thermal energy to improve vehicle performance.

The Government also set out the eligibility criteria for its Plug-in Car Grant. Under the scheme motorists will receive a grant of up to £5,000 to purchase electric, plug-in hybrid or hydrogen fuelled cars. In order to be eligible, cars must meet appropriate safety standards and must have been crash tested. They must also meet minimum range and performance criteria.

The Government believes that this combined support will place the UK at the forefront of low carbon automotive development and provide a vital economic boost for the UK economy by giving us a key competitive advantage in this increasingly important global market.

Transport Secretary Philip Hammond said:

"I am determined to make this Government the greenest ever and transport will have a key role to play. But this will not be achieved by forcing people off the road - it's not the car that's the problem, it's the carbon.

"While I am convinced that rail will be the future of long distance inter-urban journeys, we can't ignore the fact that 84% of journeys are made by car and there is no realistic prospect of displacing the private car for point to point complex journeys.

"However, we are on the brink of a technological revolution that will transform the way we see motoring in the 21st century allowing the benefits that the private car delivers without destroying the planet in the process."

In line with the Coalition Agreement commitment to mandate a national recharging network, guidance has also been released to the 15 places interested in bidding for the second round of the Plugged-In-Places infrastructure programme. This sets out in more detail what we want from these projects to support our decision-making on a national recharging network.

Business Minister Mark Prisk said:

"The winning consortia are all exciting examples of the breadth and depth of the UK's technical capabilities in low carbon vehicles.

"Collaboration between UK-based vehicle manufacturers, supply chain companies and academia will help Britain become one of the leading centres for the design, development and manufacture of ultra-low carbon vehicles.

"All of these projects had to demonstrate a credible route to market. This is about real business opportunities and high-tech jobs being created from the move to a low carbon economy."

Electric Cars –The Future is Now!, priced £12.99, is available to buy now direct from Veloce.

THINK FINISHES IN TOP THREE AT E-MIGLIA 2010

Oslo, Norway, 18 August 2010 – While pioneering Scandinavian electric vehicle (EV) maker, THINK, continues its warm-up preparations for the forthcoming EV Cup race series, the car-sharing pioneer Move About proved the quality of the THINK City by competing in the E-Miglia 2010, the world’s first international EV rally.

The best performing THINK City of the five entered was driven by Markus Spiekermann of Team Move About Bosch – entered by the German branch of the Scandinavian car-sharing pioneer, Move About. Spiekermann finished in third position, in what was a great demonstration of the THINK City’s robust performance attributes, developed and proven over 19 years and over 30 million kilometres of real world experience.

The E-Miglia 2010 started in Munich, Germany and concluded in Rovereto, Italy, over four days and 560 kilometers of carbon free competitive rally driving. Featuring no less than five Alpine passes, the E-Miglia offered ample opportunity to utilise the THINK City’s innovative regenerative braking technology, and in turn maximise battery range against formidable competition from the likes of Tesla, Citroen, Fiat, Tazzari, Smart and Jetcar. This latest competitive outing follows THINK’s recent class victory, also with a Move About team at the wheel, at this year’s Monte Carlo Rally for Alternative Energy Vehicles

“This is, without question, the most gruelling EV rally in the world,” said Spiekermann, “we were competing against some serious competitors in a variety of weather conditions and the THINK City was more than able to hold its own. Finishing in the top three is a really impressive achievement in a showroom standard urban EV, particularly against so many high performance race rivals.”

The latest generation THINK City is a purpose-built, all-electric and fully air-conditioned urban car that can travel at highway speeds and cover 160 kilometers on a single charge (via conventional household outlet), with zero local emissions. It is the world’s first EV to be granted certification with the European CE conformity mark and EU homologation requirements (M1 certificate). To achieve these exacting standards, the THINK City has successfully completed very thorough testing and validation procedures.

European production of the THINK City continues in Finland with manufacturing partner Valmet Automotive, which also assembles the Boxster and Cayman models for Porsche AG, and deliveries are taking place across Europe in selected key EV markets such as The Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Sweden, Austria and Switzerland.

Source: THINK

Coming soon! Electric Cars - The Future is Now!
By Arvid Linde

What if we all had to say goodbye to petrol cars tomorrow? Would you be ready?
There might be several reasons why you’re holding this book in your hand. Concern about the environment, determination to cut your fuel bill, or simply curiosity. Whatever the reason, the answer is within. This consumer guide is for housewives, petrol-heads, pedestrians, green activists, everyone – but most importantly, it’s for you. It will introduce the electric car to potential advocates and opponents, revealing all the pros and cons. Is such a vehicle really what it promises to be - the perfect answer to the fuel crisis and environmental issues? This book will help you find out. More info.

SMART FESTIVAL IS GOING TO BE ELECTRIC

This year’s smart festival is on a charge to be the best ever thanks to exclusive test drive opportunities of the smart fortwo electric drive and an appearance by 2008 Formula 1 World Champion Lewis Hamilton.

Taking place on Saturday 4th September at Mercedes-Benz World, Weybridge, this year’s smart festival coincides with the 10th anniversary of the arrival of right-hand drive smart models in the UK.

The additions of the groundbreaking electric version and the Formula 1 superstar to what is the biggest single-day gathering of smarts are certain to add an extra dimension to the celebrations of the production milestone.

Test drives in the smart fortwo electric drive, which uses state-of-the-art lithium ion battery technology and can be charged via a standard 13 amp socket, will be available to visitors on a first come, first served basis. Lewis Hamilton will add to the excitement by presenting the winners of the ‘Most Modified’, ‘Best Kept’ and ‘Best Dressed’ smart competitions with their prizes.

Other attractions at the smart festival include smart arrows formation driving team, a display of models from the striking BRABUS tailor made collection and a host of driving games that include smart football.

The opportunity for visitors to test drive the cutting-edge model comes hot on the heels of the first London consumers taking delivery of their smart fortwo electric drive as part of the UK’s biggest electric car trial and the Plugged-in Report commissioned by smart to understand the UK perceptions around electric vehicles. The full report can be found at www.electricsmart.co.uk

Source: smart

Available now from Veloce!
the little book of smart – New Edition!
By Paul Jackson

In the little book of smart, now featuring a brand new extra chapter, author and smart fanatic Paul Jackson guides us through the history of the brand, its highs and lows, its successes and failures, up to the present day, with the very latest fortwo line-up promising major sales worldwide and, of course, helping to pave the way for a future for smart in the USA. It’s a fascinating tale, told succinctly and in an entertaining style, and complemented by full colour photography throughout. 144 pages packed with over 100 colour pictures and entertaining text make this a great little book. More info.

LONDON’S READY TO GO ELECTRIC

Last week the first London consumers taking delivery of their smart fortwo electric drives, as part of the UK’s biggest electric vehicle trial. Owners of Eco Age, an ethical store, design consultancy & green hub; Livia Firth and Nicola Giuggioli received the keys from motoring broadcaster and self-confessed electric vehicle fan, Quentin Willson.

Nicola Giuggioli, CEO at Eco Age; "For us, at Eco Age to be part of the smart electric drive trials is amazing and has such a great synergy with our business. The smart electric drive is the perfect city car, you can park it anywhere and it has zero-emissions so we can drive around guilt-free. I can't wait to see the face of our clients when we arrive for our eco surveys in our smart electric drive."

Quentin Wilson, motoring journalist and broadcaster comments: “The fact that Mercedes-Benz, the people who invented the car, say that the future of driving is with the advent of cars like the smart electric drive, is a monster milestone for electric vehicles.”

Funded by the Government’s Technology Strategy Board, the nationwide trial is the first of its kind with over 340 vehicles being trialled on the UK roads. The programme sees 60 smart electric drives exclusively tested by residents in London and the South East for 12 months. A further 40 will be trialled by residents in the West Midlands.

David Bott, Director of Innovation Programmes at the Technology Strategy Board said: "It’s great to see the smart fortwo electric drive being handed over to the first drivers. This London based experiment is part of a much larger UK–wide trial funded by the Technology Strategy Board and the Department for Transport. Low carbon vehicles are being put into the hands of real drivers in eight different projects. Vehicle performance and user behaviour is being monitored by computers in over 340 cars and data from trials across the UK will be collated and published in an act of open innovation designed to support the development of Low Carbon Vehicle technology”

Boris Johnson, Mayor of London, said: “We are now on the brink of an exciting era of cleaner, greener electric motoring. London is already taking steps to ensure drivers in the capital will be able to embrace this new technology and plug in with confidence.”

The handover coincides with the publication of the smart Plugged-In report, commissioned to understand the UK perceptions around electric vehicles. The report reveals that the London consumer is ready to embrace the electric revolution with about two-thirds of consumers stating that they’re willing to consider an electric vehicle if the charging infrastructure is improved.

Source: smart

Coming soon! Electric Cars - The Future is Now!
By Arvid Linde
What if we all had to say goodbye to petrol cars tomorrow? Would you be ready?
There might be several reasons why you’re holding this book in your hand. Concern about the environment, determination to cut your fuel bill, or simply curiosity. Whatever the reason, the answer is within. This consumer guide is for housewives, petrol-heads, pedestrians, green activists, everyone – but most importantly, it’s for you. It will introduce the electric car to potential advocates and opponents, revealing all the pros and cons. Is such a vehicle really what it promises to be - the perfect answer to the fuel crisis and environmental issues? This book will help you find out. More info.

THINK CITY GOES RACING

Pioneering Scandinavian EV maker, THINK, entered the world of motor sport at the weekend with the THINK City ‘EV Cup Edition’ taking part in the START Eco Car Trials – the world’s first electric vehicle race.

The THINK City has been converted into a race-ready model by the EV Cup team of specialists in London, who have removed nearly 70kg of weight from the vehicle, achieved by stripping out the interior to leave one single lightweight racing seat and steering wheel, and replacing all glass with heat resistant and shatterproof Perspex.

A revised suspension system to lower the centre of gravity for the already well-planted car and further improving handling complete the conversion.

These racing upgrades coupled with a software update of THINK’s patented EV drive control technology result in a very exciting performance from the race-ready EV Cup Edition.

Channel 4 TV presenter and environmentally-conscious architect Kevin McCloud, and racing enthusiast and founder of the British fashion brand, Mulberry – Roger Saul, tested the THINK City Racer for the first time at the weekend, at Kilver Court Viaduct in Somerset, previously home to the Mulberry headquarters.

The THINK City made a real impression with both eco racers. “The THINK City can overtake very competently despite its relative tiny power and that makes you feel very comfortable at the wheel,” said Kevin McCloud, “it is an excellent racing vehicle and on the short runs we were doing today it just doesn’t seem to run out of power – thanks to its linear torque – which actually makes it better than its equivalent petrol city car for short races.”

The THINK City was also a hit with Roger Saul, he said “the THINK City is the most advanced electric car in the world and is an excellent illustration of the START ethos, which is to bring sustainability to the fore in a fun way without ranting.”

Further pushing the boundaries of what is achievable in an electric car, the THINK City is also currently featuring in a new BBC documentary – Electric Ride – currently being broadcast around the world and following an intrepid BBC team as they drive their way 4,000 miles around a dozen European countries in an electric vehicle.

The team’s progress can be followed by tuning into Radio 4 on Saturdays at 1030hrs (BST / GMT +1) for four weeks from 19 June, or by logging on to BBC Online (http://www.bbc.co.uk/radio4/features/electric-ride), Facebook (www.facebook.com/BBCelectricride), Twitter (www.twitter.com/bbcelectricride) and the project website (www.electricride.eu).

The latest generation THINK City is a purpose-built, all-electric car designed for urban environments. It can travel at highway speeds and cover 160 kilometers on a single charge (via conventional household outlet), with zero local emissions. It is the world’s first EV to be granted certification with the European CE conformity mark and EU homologation requirements (M1 certificate). To achieve these exacting standards, the THINK City has successfully completed very thorough testing and validation procedures.

European production of the THINK City is underway in Finland with manufacturing partner Valmet Automotive, which also assembles the Boxster and Cayman models for Porsche AG. Customer deliveries are taking place across Europe in selected key EV markets such as The Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Sweden, Austria and Switzerland.

THINK has also announced plans to establish a U.S. production facility during 2011 in Elkhart County, Indiana, and is working with Japanese partner Itochu on developing operations in Asia.

Source: THINK

Coming soon! Electric Cars - The Future is Now!
By Arvid Linde

What if we all had to say goodbye to petrol cars tomorrow? Would you be ready?
There might be several reasons why you’re holding this book in your hand. Concern about the environment, determination to cut your fuel bill, or simply curiosity. Whatever the reason, the answer is within. This consumer guide is for housewives, petrol-heads, pedestrians, green activists, everyone – but most importantly, it’s for you. It will introduce the electric car to potential advocates and opponents, revealing all the pros and cons. Is such a vehicle really what it promises to be - the perfect answer to the fuel crisis and environmental issues? This book will help you find out. More info.

AMPERA E-REVS UP FOR UK’S LONGEST EV-ER ROAD TRIP

Luton –Tuesday June 22 will mark a turning point in UK automotive history when a Vauxhall Ampera E-REV (Extended-Range Electric Vehicle) undertakes the longest single journey by an electric car on British roads.

The prototype Ampera, which goes on sale in the UK in early 2012, will appropriately be driven in relay by a selection of drivers from Vauxhall’s home in Luton, Bedfordshire to its passenger car plant in Ellesmere Port, Cheshire - a journey of more than 170 miles.

Duncan Aldred, Vauxhall’s MD, who will drive the Ampera on the first leg of its journey from the company’s Heritage Centre in Luton, said: “It’s quite poignant that Luton, our home for the last 105 years, should mark the starting point of not just this historic journey, but also the future of E-REV vehicles in the UK. In the last century, Vauxhall has pioneered innovation and technology for mainstream car buyers, and this commitment will continue with the Ampera. We’re truly energising the future for British motorists.”

With a real-world range of 350 miles, the Ampera will be using under half its available power as it travels north up the M1 and M6 motorways, calling in at Vauxhall’s Brand Centre at Star City, Birmingham on the way. Electricity drives the Ampera’s wheels at all times and speeds, and for the first 40 miles of the trip power will be supplied by electricity stored in a cutting-edge, 16kWh lithium-ion battery, meaning the Ampera will emit zero tailpipe emissions. When the battery’s energy is depleted to a minimum state, a small petrol/E85-fuelled engine generator seamlessly provides electricity to power the electric drive unit, boosting range by a further 310 miles.

Once at Ellesmere Port, the Ampera, which is built on the new Astra platform, will complete its journey at the end of the new Astra’s production line, welcomed by plant director, Tony Francavilla.

Source: Vauxhall

Coming soon! Electric Cars - The Future is Now!
By Arvid Linde

Arvid has been known to take a rather sceptical stance on electric cars, but in this book he shows both their good and bad sides, ultimately encouraging people to embrace the future of green motoring.

More info.

THINK AND BBC LEAD ELECTRIC CAR CONVOY

Silence on the streets of Oslo as THINK and the BBC lead a convoy of electric vehicles through the city in celebration of Norway's EV culture leadership

Traffic on the streets around Oslo’s historic national parliament echoed to the sound of silence last week as a convoy of over 60 electric vehicles (EVs) paraded through the city to celebrate EV culture in Norway.

The occasion was the arrival in Oslo of the BBC documentary team behind the Electric Ride programme – now a quarter way through their month-long, 4,000 mile pioneering odyssey around Europe – in a THINK City electric vehicle (EV).

From Norway, the BBC Electric Ride team will drive their THINK City into Sweden, Austria, Germany, Lichtenstein, Switzerland, France, Italy, Spain, Portugal and others along the way before returning to London early in July.

BBC Electric Ride will be broadcast on Radio 4 on Saturdays at 1030hrs (BST / GMT +1) for four weeks from 19 June and will also be available globally on BBC i-player from the same date.

Source: THINK



New book coming soon! Electric Cars - The Future is Now!
By Arvid Linde

What if we all had to say goodbye to petrol cars tomorrow? Would you be ready?
There might be several reasons why you’re holding this book in your hand. Concern about the environment, determination to cut your fuel bill, or simply curiosity. Whatever the reason, the answer is within. This consumer guide is for housewives, petrol-heads, pedestrians, green activists, everyone – but most importantly, it’s for you. It will introduce the electric car to potential advocates and opponents, revealing all the pros and cons. Is such a vehicle really what it promises to be - the perfect answer to the fuel crisis and environmental issues? This book will help you find out. More info.

NISSAN LEAF - THE ‘NEW CAR’ EXPERIENCE

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. (NML) has invited nearly 500 people to experience the world's first mass-production, 100% electric, zero-emission car - Nissan LEAF - at the company's Oppama test track in a world-exclusive preview from June 11-19, 2010.

Media, Nissan shareholders, government officials, analysts and some of the first customers to place reservations for Nissan LEAF will get the chance to experience the benefits of this practical, affordable and fun to drive all-electric car when they get behind the wheel of the first production test units.

Nissan LEAF is a ‘new car' in every sense of the word and redefines the driving experience, setting new standards in handling, acceleration and comfort in its class. Nissan LEAF officially goes on sale beginning in December.

Since the 100% electric, zero-emission concept vehicle was unveiled last August at the grand opening of the new Nissan Global Headquarters, the company has been continually refining Nissan LEAF for the October start of production.

Among the enhancements to the test units is the "Approaching Vehicle Sound for Pedestrians" system, which also will be used in the Nissan Fuga hybrid, slated for sale in autumn 2010.

Press release & image: Nissan

Coming soon! The Efficient Driver’s Handbook – Your guide to fuel efficient driving techniques and car choice
By Dave Moss

This book describes in a clear, friendly manner everything today’s driver needs to know about choosing and using a car in an economical and eco-efficient way.

More info.