ECC, also known as the Electric Car Corporation Plc, has just announced its launch of a new, “all electric”, 4-seater, production car that will be made available to the public today.

This recent UK launch comes right in the heels of the announcement from the government saying how they subsidize and support the use of electric cars. The British government has also expressed their commitment in making the UK the “world leader” in creating and exporting quality electric cars. London’s own mayor, Boris Johnson, has also revealed plans of introducing 25,000 recharging points throughout the city. These recharging points should make it easier for electric car drivers to keep their rides ready for longer road trips.

The new electric car is going to be called the Citroën C1 ev’ie. It’s the first 4-seater, all-electric ride that’s designed to give its drivers (and passengers) superior comfort and performance. This car even comes complete with all the standard safety features you’ll find in your usual gas-powered car.

WhatGreenCar.com also reports that this vehicle is capable of running 60-70 miles when fully-charged, at a level speed of approximately 60mph. Not bad for an electric car, right?

To keep this car completely-charged, you can also plug it in for around 6-7 hours in a domestic 13 amp socket. That should cost you around 90p, which means you’re going to be spending less than 2p per mile.

Citroën C1 ev’ie models will be assembled in the United Kingdom from the donor car. And the company expects to produce around 500 of the C1 ev’ies in the next 12 months. Significantly rising to 2,000-4,000 units by next year depending on public demand and the government support.

“We are committed to providing greener alternatives for motorists and are delighted to be supplying ECC with C1s for this exciting project,” the Managing Director of the Citroën UK, Xavier Duchemin, said.

ECC plc Chief Executive David Martell also commented: “We believe this is the first serious alternative to a petrol or diesel car. It drives just like a petrol car and has excellent capacity for use in any town or city in the UK…The key to building a successful electric car is an efficient battery management system (BMS). ECC has developed an advanced and sophisticated system, which when coupled with regenerative breaking, can provide the driver with much greater range and better performance.”

The C1 ev’ie is said to be priced at $16,850 and can be bought directly from ECC.

Ford Fiesta Van

There’s a new, super-stylish, small, green van in town, and it’s out to conquer Britain. Giant automaker Ford has recently revealed the new Fiesta Van ECOnetic. The super fuel saver that’s going to be released on the market later this year.

WhatGreenCar.com reports that the new and improved Fiesta Van ECOnetic comes with the same style as the old Fiesta, but with a few tweaks here and there and a greener overall design. This model has low-rolling resistance tires, a lowered suspension, and a specialized Duratorq 1.6-liter TDCi for super-low exhaust emissions of just 98g/km CO2.

The latest green car from Ford was created at the automaker’s wind-powered engine plant that’s found at Dagenham, Essex. Its 90PS Duratorq 1.6-Liter engine was combined with a Diesel Particulate Filter that’s designed to produce 10% less carbon dioxide (CO2) compared to the already-impressive mainstream TDCi. This car also has a unique aerodynamic profile that allows it to run at a very fuel-efficient 76.4 mpg (miles per gallon)!

Ford’s director of commercial vehicles in Britain, Steve Kimber, talks about the perks of this new “green van”.

Ford Fiesta Econetic 2008 Model

“Many operators are prepared to be green - but still want comfort, performance, and an affordable price. The low-running costs of this ECOnetic van are bound to make more people consider the ‘green’ option. It’s a great package…We are also announcing a Transit ECOnetic today for opeators to see that Ford is serious about sustainability and developing their favorite van range in a way that supports their business.”

When placed beside previous-generation Fiestas, this model is designed to use up to 35 gallons less fuel over a course of 12,428 miles. That’s definitely going to save you a lot of gas money in the long run. When driven in the extra-urban highway, the fuel efficiency of the Fiesta Van ECOnetic improves even further. This van is capable of achieving 88.3 mpg! While your regular gas-powered car runs at 23mpg, this van will run much, much further with much less gas—and that’s a Ford guarantee.

When Tesla first came out, everybody went nuts over it. Why not? The car is fast, stylish, and more importantly; it runs on electricity. Then again, its automaker has finally hit a rookie so to speak. That’s because it has find it very tough to make the necessary upgrades on its prized pet project. Although Tesla claims that production is right on track, the sheer number of orders make it difficult for the company to follow.

The truth is, producing electric cars at a high rate has lots of challenges. Tesla Motors is just beginning to realize that an A+ car such as the Tesla Roadster takes time to produce on a massive scale. Aside from that, batteries change very often and in fact, they are upgraded so fast that automakers make it difficult to keep up.

Then again, Tesla Motors is still trying its best to rack up the numbers of cars that it will produce this year. Though it might be slow, the company is still right on the money when it comes to meeting its own expectations.

So I have been writing about electric cars for quite sometime now and it’s obvious that there are so many of them. From Asia, Europe, and the Americas, more and more manufacturers are working on creating efficient and cheap electric cars. Recently, I has the chance to drive another NEV or neighborhood electric car such as the ZX40S and I have to admit that I am impressed. Read on for more details.

Truth is, the ZX40S is just like other NEVs out there: it’s small. However, its size is outweighs by the fact that it uses electricity to move around. More like a gigantic toy that you can actually use for your daily commutes. The ZX40S is based on the model called the Daihatsu Move, which originated in Japan. Basically, it comes with a steel body frame, side impact door beams, crash resistant bumpers, and an impact-resistant steering column.

At first glance, the ZX40S would seem small but believe it or not, it has enough size for several people to get in. When you crunch down the numbers, the ZX40S measures 11 feet in length from bumper to bumper. Aside from that, there are two bucket seats that you can find in front. Entering or exiting won’t even be a problem because there are four huge doors that you can use for that purpose. If you’re still not impressed, it has at least 41 feet of cargo space.

The ZX40S comes in three different models and these are the ZX40, ZX40S, and ZX40S Advanced Design. The ZX40 comes with a 4KW motor that can muster as much as 275 amps. If you’re not content with it, the ZX40S is pegged at 6.3 KW and it can produce as much as 400 amps. Finally, the ZX40S Advanced Design does not use a DC motor. Instead it utilizes a brushless three-phase induction AC motor that is capable of producing as much as 7.5 KW and 550 amps. Despite of the power differences, each of these ZX40S models can go as fast as 25 mph. It can’t go any faster though, because that’s the top speed that Federal laws dictate.

The ZX40S stores electricity in six lead-acid batteries. The best part is that you can charge these batteries in any 110-volt outlets. If you’ve got them inside your house, then that’s great news for you. In order to charge, you just have to find the power cord that you can plug into a connector that is located in the fuel filter location. Manufacturers of the ZX40S claim that its batteries can go as far as 50-60 miles. That’s simply what you need if you’re going around the city streets all day. On the other hand, this car can accelerate from 0-20 mph in five miles and if you’re going to ask me, that’s a pretty decent number.

It’s pretty easy to see that a car like the ZX40S is a hands down better alternative than most gasoline-powered cars out there. The costs are just way too low although you really have to make do with its limited power and speed. Some of the ZX40S’s standard equipments include a heater, defroster, windshield wipers, electric mirrors, and tough alloy wheels. When it comes to the price, it’s pegged from 14000-18900 USD.

Buying gas-saving components and even overhauling entire engines have become the trend these days. The truth is, every American out there has done his or her part trying to make their vehicles more fuel efficient. From electric cars, hydrogen cars, and even solar vehicles; almost every option has been explored.

Take a close look at an NZEV

Then again, there’s another option that most drivers have not looked at yet and that’s using Near-Zero Emission Vehicles or NZEV. Basically, NZEVs are automobiles that use gasoline as fuel, but release very little or zero emissions at all. Compared to other green vehicles that look like they just came in from outer space, NZEVs look like regular autos.

If you’re planning to have your very own NZEV, there are a few things you need to know and here they are:

What Exactly are NZEVs?

Well, NZEVs are not yet space cars that run on zero fuel. However, it’s one of the classes of vehicles that still rely on gasoline, but limiting its emissions to near zero. That’s good news if you’re going to ask Mother Nature, especially with how much dirt there is in the environment these days.

Umm, an NZEV is umm. Wait lemme check my manual

What are the Standards Used?

For the record, any kind of vehicle can be considered NZEV, even the one that has been sitting in your garage for 20 years. You just have to tinker with its engine components and that’s it. That means it does not have to look like an egg on four wheels to be put in this category. Technically, every NZEV must fit the standards of the Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicles and it should not have any kind of evaporative components. The truth is, these vehicles are really sophisticated as far its emission systems are concerned. In short, it’s so green and environment friendly that you’ll be putting those smoke-belching vehicles in shame, once you flaunt it on the road.

They’re Not Always Available

Well, if there’s a chink in the armor of the NZEV, it’s the fact it isn’t as available as buying other kinds of cars. You’d probably encounter a Toyota Prius more often than you would an NZEV. Unfortunately, NZEVs cannot be found in all states and you can only find them in selected places like California, New York, Maine, Massachusetts, and Vermont. Well that’s a very limited pool you have there, but you can always give these places a visit if you really want to try an NZEV for a change.

A Simple Thought

The truth is, NZEVs have been around for a while. Well, not as far back as the last Ice Age but you get the point. The one thing that hinders from being a major part of our roads is that very few states have laws regarding NZEVs. These kinds of vehicles might no cost you a fortune, but manufacturers have to spend more money in making sure that its emissions are controlled. The end result is that they spend more, while not getting any kind of incentives for doing so. In short, they’re not very popular because not many manufacturers are willing to spend money on something that won’t be financially rewarding.

Owning an NZEV is a great way of cutting down your fuel expense and emissions. The best thing is, your ride does not have to look like a spaceship because all it takes is a little tinkering on the exhaust and engine systems.

Electric car geeks have always claimed that we can achieve sustainable mobility without destroying the environment. These days, electric cars have slowly become part of dinner-table discussions because of the volatility of gas prices. With the New Year unraveling, people would most likely buy cars that would give them their money’s worth. For sure, electric cars will be talked about lengthily this 2009, which is the reason I went out of my way to compile and list the five electric cars that every enthusiast should look into.

1. Dynasty IT

The Dynasty IT is actually a series of NEVs or Neighborhood Electric Cars that include a sedan, utility, and pickup vehicles. They are actually built on a 90-inch wheelbase, while having an overall length of 90 inches. Just like most NEVs, this one is built for shorter traveling around the town, while not being too heavy as well. The great thing about every Dynasty IT car is that it is able to go longer than most NEVs with its flood-lead acid batteries. Despite of its toy-like features, it’s actually pretty sturdy because of its aluminum/fiberglass/plastic body. When it comes to charging, you need at least 12 hours to ensure that you’ve filled it up for an entire day’s driving. Unlike other NEVs, each model costs 14 grand to 25 grand.

2.GEM

GEM or Global Electrical Motors is arguably the most established and recognized name when it comes to electric cars. GEM has been in the industry for years and when it comes to innovations in the electric-car universe, it has always been at the forefront. Unlike other electric car manufacturers, GEM excels in creating cars that can wither turbulent weather and road conditions. That’s what the e2, e4, and e6 models are all about. When it comes to power, GEM cars are powered by a 5-horsepower DC motor although its claim for success is that you can customize the cars that you ordered. Unlike the Dynasty IT, the GEM cars range from 6000- 12000 thousands dollars.

3.Columbia Parcar

If you’re looking for toughness, mobility, and an environment-friendly way of going around the city streets, Columbia Parcar vehicles would be the way to go. Basically, cars from this company have high-strength tubular alloy steel frame for extra support and durability during rough rides. Aside from that, it offers you an open-air sensation, so you would think of driving off-road jeeps when you get behind the steering wheel. Columbia Parcar cars are essentially built for heavy work and because of that, it is built to be heavier compared to other NEVs. Each Columbia Parcar car is about 2,500 lbs in weight. Price-wise, these cars are pegged at 10,500 dollars to 24,000 dollars.

4.Miles ZX40

If you’re looking for an NEV that looks like any other regular car on the road, then you should check out the Miles ZX40. Basically, it has a 4kW DC electric motor, which would last for a few hours on the road without you worrying about sputtering. The Miles ZX40 is bigger compared to other NEVs, because it offers at least 41 cubic feet worth of cargo space. Aside from that, it allows you to bring in three more passengers without feeling too cramped inside. If you want this car, make sure to have at least 15000-19000 dollars in your pocket.

5.ZENN

ZENN stands for “Zero Emission No Noise” and that’s exactly what this car is all about. Basically, it is able to provide zero emission because of its superb components and battery. Toughness isn’t a problem for the ZENN because it is made of style alloy and ABS body panels, which would make it virtually indestructible.

From afar, the Airpod looks like a gigantic insect that runs with miniscule wheels. The fact is: it wouldn’t be surprising if you would mistake the Airpod for the car of the future, because of its unorthodox design and look. On the other hand, this weird-looking vehicle that looks like a flattened version of a Smart Fortwo, is already used in airports in France and the Netherlands. Its creator, Guy Negre has convinced Air France and KLM officials to make his creation the best option in airport transportation.

The Airpod is a pint-sized vehicle that can carry four people altogether and its most attractive feature is its energy source −compressed air. To harness its energy, it has a tank that is located at its rear, which is filled with air that it uses for its operation. The Airpod is meant to carry passengers in both the Charles De Gaulle in Paris and Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam. Basically, the Airpod weighs only 450 lbs. and it is powered by compressed air, which has been the center of Guy Negre’s efforts for the past 20 years. Of course, you really can’t expect the Airpod to cruise like a Lamborghini, but once you fill its air tank, it’s good enough for 135 miles until the next stop. Aside from that, its modest 43 mph will give the airport passengers a good view of the whole scene.

The Airpod however doesn’t use a very viable technology, considering the need to have air stations just to make it primetime. Aside from that, there’s always the question of its performance, which other alternative energy sources such as electricity, CNG, and solar power can provide. Also, the Airpod’s production costs are far too expensive when you calculate the benefits that it’ll give back. Despite of these, Guy Negre and his company, Motor Development International, remain optimistic that it’ll be the chosen transportation of the future; albeit in a limited role.

You don’t have to deal with tiny spaces, miniature horsepower, and mediocre speed when you talk about green cars. Recently, Nissan launched what seems to be a topnotch hot rod that you can ever get and that’s the Nissan Altima Hot Rod Hybrid. As the name implies, this car doesn’t look like your typical hybrid car. In fact, it looks like it’s ready to just move through the speedway in full throttle and turn the road into dust. The fact is, it’s as fast as most sport cars out there and the catch is: it’s not going to ruin the atmosphere with its emissions.

Basically, the Nissan Altima Hot Rod Hybrid has the standard 2.5-liter engine and an electric supercharger that you can count on once you decide to go green. That’s not all, because it also has solar panels on the roof that can help you recharge the batteries anytime. The great thing about the Nissan Altima Hot Rod Hybrid is that it can compete with some faster rivals on the road. In fact, it’s scheduled to compete in the prestigious One Lap of America Race Series. Though far from being a Tesla Roadster, the Nissan Altima Hot Rod Hybrid can generate a whopping 440-horsepower and go as fast as 110 mph. If that’s not enough to convince you, it can go from 0-60 miles in only 12.9 seconds. With that being said, the Nissan Altima Hot Rod Hybrid is a solid choice if you want to go green without having to compromise power, speed, and space.

Nissan hasn’t yet released any information on how much the Nissan Altima Hot Rod Hybrid would cost, but it doesn’t seem to be significantly more expensive than non-hybrid cars out there.

Everybody knows the Smart fortwo car is one of the most promising mini cars out there. Some versions of this car have already been transformed to hybrid and electric autos, which can certainly help you save a lot of money on your gas bills. Sure you might have to deal with the glaring limitation in space, speed, and power; but this car is at the top when it comes to lessening your fuel emission and gas consumption. On the other hand, the SEMA show in Las Vegas just exhibited what may seem to be Bruce Wayne’s effort to lessen his bat mobile’s emissions and that’s through the Batsmart. It’s essentially a Smart fortwo equipped with nifty bat mobile wings, while painted in black. Yeah, it’s definitely far from being the real bat mobile, but other people will surely see the similarity once you start flaunting it.

The Batsmart is not necessarily menacing although when it comes to fuel economy, this car is second to none. The Batsmart has an astonishing 60 mpg rating for the gasoline model. For starters, that means you’ll get 60 miles out of every gallon of fuel when you drive it. Meanwhile, the diesel model is even better, because you’ll be getting as much as 83 miles by consuming only one gallon. Power wise, the Batsmart is far from its more ravenous and stronger counterpart. That’s because it can only manage 40 km/h as its maximum speed. Aside from that, there’s only room for one, which means Robin has to find another way of chasing the bad guys aside from walking and running.

On a different note, the Batsmart will be available to the public in the coming months and if you really want to feel like Bruce Wayne even for a day, getting this car is a good move.