Electric vehicles

Electric vehicles are not new. Until the turn of the last century, most cars were electric. Spurred by the development of the starter motor, the expansion in oil production and greater range offered by petrol and diesel cars, they virtually died out in the twentieth century. Only the humble milk float remains in countries such as Britain but electric power for transportation has not gone away, with it becoming the source of motion in for virtually all trains.

Electric cars rely solely on batteries for their power, which are in turn charged from a source of electricity. They have fewer parts than a conventional car or hybrid and need far less maintenance. They are also far more environmentally friendly and can also offer very impressive performance, particularly in acceleration.

The main issue with electric cars is the battery - the capacity, weight and cost. The battery determines the range of the vehicle, simple lead acid batteries give approximately 60 km before requiring charging, the most sophisticated and expensive Li Ion can give around 400 km. Although 60 km is sufficient for average motoring, assuming the vehicles start the day with a full a charge, it does mean that unlike plug-in hybrids, their range is ultimately limited. Electric vehicles are also dependent on an infrastructure of charging points, a problem for those without garages and off street parking.

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