batteries
Environmentally-friendly transport isn't all sackcloth and sandals, as VansA2Z discovered on the 2011 Bridgestone Eco-Rally behind the wheel of a Ford Transit Connect Electric, converted to battery power by Azure Dynamics.
There are certainly fast green cars out there, as we recently proved in our mini 'green grand prix' at Silverstone. However, energy efficiency is greatly reduced when travelling in excess of 70mph and this is one of the main reasons why 'eco-friendly' cars are generally 'not that fast'. A top speed of over 70mph is largely irrelevant anyway as there are few places in the world where it's actually legal to drive that fast. Despite this, we can't help but fantasize about super-fast cars and it's often used as a very effective selling point.
Here at eco-rally.org, we do publish the top speed for every vehicle that has appeared in our events, but we also publish the more useful 'average city speed', i.e. how fast you can accelerate to the speed-limit and maintain it whilst zipping through congested traffic. This is where small, lightweight electric cars and bikes tend to excel. Registered users can compare all green vehicle stats here: http://www.eco-rally.org/compare.
Following an invitation to attend the launch of this year’s START and Bridgestone Eco-Rally at Clarence House, hosted by HRH The Prince of Wales, Spencer Ivy Director, Va Hua obliged, taking with him ‘Ivy’, the unisex step-through version of Spencer Ivy Electric Bicycles. More...
Perfect for kids turning 4 to age 11 years, Go Kart Party provide amazing fun, as the kids get a "real driving experience". The electric Go Karts are silent running, fully supervised, and safely contained within the inflatable track. Batteries last longer through regenerative braking.
Spencer Ivy combine classic design with the very best in contemporary technology, giving you an entirely different bicycle experience. It’s cool, sustainable, and most importantly, lots of fun. Made in Germany, each bike comes with a 2 year warranty.
London-based company specialising in 100% electric scooters & mopeds.
Chronic congestion has reached record levels in some cities. The AA - UK's biggest breakdown organisation - now uses the motorbikes and electric scooters to cut through traffic and reach breakdowns in central London up to 33% quicker, getting members and other traffic moving again with minimum delay.
Simon Fisher, one of dedicated AA bike repair and recovery patrols, says:
Nikki Gordon-Bloomfield is a self-confessed geek, clandestine petrol-head and gadget girl who will drive or ride almost anything. She works as a presenter, producer and journalist with a specialism in alternative fuelled vehicles and green technology.


