Defining Light Electric Vehicles
The definition of a typical light electric vehicle remains amorphous, as this niche market continues to expand. Light electric vehicles are typically powered by all-electric systems or hybrid systems using alternative fuels. These electric vehicles are typically less than 200 pounds in gross weight, though some EV producers use the term when marketing light cars. Most experts agree that light electric vehicles use two and three wheels instead of the traditional four-wheel arrangement for passenger vehicles. As light electric vehicles hit the market, producers and regulators will likely create a narrower definition of these new vehicles.
Target Markets For Light Electric Vehicles
Light electric vehicles are ideally suited for commuters, college students, and vacationers trying to leave behind their gas-guzzling cars. Cyclists commuting to work and school each morning get exercise, fresh air, and time away from busy freeways aboard their electric bikes and scooters. These vehicles may be limited in speed, but they drastically reduce your influence on the environment as they take you to work. College students looking at compact cars and small SUVs can save money while saving the environment by opting for light electric vehicles. The low speed of an electric bike or scooter may not work on the highway, but it is perfect for university roads. Frequent travelers heading to national parks, beachfront resorts, and other beautiful locales will find light electric vehicles the perfect means of getting around. As light electric vehicles become more common, bike and outdoor rental companies will offer vacationers these products as alternatives to costly rental cars.
E+ Electric Bikes©
E+ Electric Bikes© (http://www.epluselectricbike.com/) is a Virginia producer of electric bikes like the E+ Mountain®. The E+ Mountain® is a rugged electric bike that is priced below $4,000 to attract budget-conscious consumers. This light electric vehicle runs on a 36-volt nickel metal hydride (NiMH) battery in the front wheel and a rear wheel motor. The E+ Mountain® is rechargeable using common household outlets with the help of a NiMH Smart Battery Charger developed by E+ Electric Bikes©. The E+ Mountain® can travel up to 28 miles per charge with an average speed of 15 miles per hour.
E+ Electric Bikes© is gaining steam regionally and nationally, thanks to its approach to vehicle performance and customer satisfaction. The E+ Mountain’s® LCD display keeps users keenly aware of remaining battery life, speed, and other metrics with every mile. The E+ Mountain® and other E+ Electric Bikes© are available in four colors including metallic blue, black, and red for fashion-conscious consumers. E+ Electric Bikes© also offers zero percent financing, free shipping, and other specials frequently to decrease the burden of buying its light electric vehicles.
Veloteq Cavalier®
Veloteq Motors© (http://www.veloteq.com/) is a Boulder, Colorado-based producer of electric scooters like the Veloteq Cavalier®. The Cavalier® is an all-electric scooter that meets the LEV weight standard at 172 pounds. This scooter uses a 48-volt, 400 RPM motor and four 48-volt batteries to provide plenty of power on the road. Once the batteries have been exhausted, Veloteq Cavalier® users can recharge their scooters with household outlets within eight hours. The Veloteq Cavalier® comes standard with a remote alarm system to keep the scooter protected in public parking areas. Veloteq© is also aiming for gadget lovers by offering optional features like MP3 systems and enhanced speakers with its light electric vehicles.
Optibike©
Optibike© (http://www.optibike.com/) produces an electric bike using its patented Motored Bottom Bracket system. This system enhances the cyclist’s power by combining the power of an electric motor with the energy generated by pedaling. The Optibike© is capable of reaching speeds of 20 miles per hour and weighs up to 80 pounds depending on added features. This electric bike stands apart from the competition with a sleek and aerodynamic body that can withstand the stresses of the road. The motorized aspect of the Optibike© is facilitated by a 36-volt lithium-ion battery monitored by a dozen microprocessors to ensure optimal performance. Optibike© protects its customers from battery failure with a three year, 30,000 mile warranty. The Optibike© is available for test drives around the United States at participating bike shops.
EcoSpeed© Electrified Recumbent Bikes
EcoSpeed© (http://www.ecospeed.com/) offers several conversion kits to help cyclists turn their old bikes into electrified recumbent bikes. The company’s Mid Drive and Mountain Drive products are designed to fit on any bicycle frame with ease. EcoSpeed© offers both conversion kits with a choice of a cheaper but heavier lead-acid battery or a more expensive lithium-ion phosphate battery. Each frame is capable of traveling up to 100 miles at low speeds before recharging is needed. EcoSpeed© notes that its Mountain Drive system can cruise 20 to 25 miles per hour even during mountain ascents. The company’s recumbent bike system can produce speed bursts approaching 30 miles per hour for several seconds. EcoSpeed© offers finished LEVs in addition to its electric conversion kit for consumers willing to spend more money for a finished product.
Online Resources Regarding Light Electric Vehicles
The best resource for consumers interested in light electric vehicles is the Light Electric Vehicle Association© (http://www.levassociation.com/). This Bangor, Maine organization is relatively new, but provides an invaluable resource for light EV enthusiasts. LEVA© maintains a list of state, federal, and international regulations relating to the development of electric vehicles. The association offers memberships to EV lovers to create a grassroots movement for LEVs in the United States. LEVA© also intends to hold conferences nationwide to showcase LEV technology and get consumers organized.
Another great resource for LEV fans is the Electric Auto Association© website (http://www.eaaev.org/index.html). The Electric Auto Association© is a California-based organization that has advocated for electric-powered vehicles since opening in 1967. The organization’s main page is a clearinghouse of information on EV producers, battery specifications, and other data about the emerging EV market. As light electric vehicles penetrate the auto market in the near future, the Electric Auto Association© will publish more information for LEV drivers and prospective buyers.
|
