Week 23 Friday Five! In this edition, we take both the local and global scale EV projects and initiatives to reveal the current and future of EV. From large-scale government-led initiatives and global brands to local-scale start-up concept vehicles, we cover it all this week!
- A new turn for the British Classic
Aston Martin, well known for its association with British icon James Bond, has unveiled its first-ever all-electric vehicle – The RapideE! Reaching 60 m.p.h in 4 seconds, the ultra-luxury muscular car maintains its signature iconic design but has progressed into the EV realm; it is hoping to be available in 2019.
- A gateway to EV!
With Tesla’s Roadster costing over $100,000, perhaps owning an electric car may not be accessible. That’s why e-bikes equipped with motor systems are seen as THE entry-level electric vehicle. Bosch, who NIU partnered with to build its motors, highlighted the many advantages electric-assisted bicycles have over electric cars.
- Battery prices
“The batteries are the most expensive part of electric vehicles, and their affordability is key to the take up of the technology.” According to Hyundai Motor Co, 2020 will either see the continued reduction in battery prices or its leveling.
- 100% electric bus fleet?
Shenzhen, a major city in Guangdong Province, China, has formally announced that all buses in its metropolis are 100% electric. With $490 million in government subsidies, Shenzhen operates 16359 electric buses; we are going to be seeing many more cities (in China) follow Shenzhen’s lead!
- The fun EV machine!
As reported on Forbes, Arcimoto were the creators of the Fun Utility Vehicle (FUV), a pure battery electric vehicle with its base model reaching 60 m.p.h in 7.5 seconds, with a range of 70 miles. With a retail price of $11,900, the model is 1/3 of the price of a pure battery electric car.
