Sunday, July 27, 2008

Guernsey Smart EV gets tested



We've been saying recently how well electric cars seem to fit into island life and now we can bring you a very Smart example of that. One of our faithful readers was recently on the Channel island of Guernsey and had the opportunity to go for a test ride in a locally converted Smart along with his video camera and invites us all to view the result. First though, we offer a bit of background.

Mark Parr and his brother started The Electric Vehicle Company in an old shellfish factory on the West coast of the 24 square mile island and for the past few years have been perfecting their version of the electric Smart car. They've tried different battery technologies but now that they have incorporated lithium ion into the design, they seem satisfied with the result and are now offering them for sale. In fact, they've already sold three of the six they are currently working on. The Guernsey Smart EV is capable of 60 mph and has a range of up to 65 miles. It has regenerative braking and is a perfect fit for the islands narrow roads. According to the BBC, the price is £15,000 ($29,840). Go for a ride around the beautiful island after the jump. Thanks

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