New Vehicle Technologies

Electricity
Electric cars can be run at a low cost and are quiet and clean to use. However, there is a relatively low efficiency in production of fuel (around 32% of power input to output compared to 83% for petrol). Figures on the carbon intensity of electric cars depend on assumptions about the carbon intensity of electricity generating power which will vary nationally. A US report suggests that emissions on a life cycle basis of electric cars may be 69% of emissions from gasoline by 2020 (Weiss et al, 2000). If all the electricity used was to be produced by renewable sources or fossil fuels with carbon sequestration, zero net emissions are achievable.

Peugeot has a fleet of 50 electric cars, providing a self-service fleet in the town of La Rochelle in France. Commercial services began in 1999 and by 2002 there were 466 members of the scheme.
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The Ford Motor Company have produced an electric vehicle for urban use, with a range of 53 miles. Pilot schemes are being trialled in California and New York State.
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