Electric automobiles - Yes

Abstract

Growing shortage of petroleum threatens the lifeline of conventional automobiles and makes the search for alternate transportation systems mandatory. Among several possible substitutes, the electric automobile appears promising as a short-distance commuter car (COMCAR). Its lack of pollution would be an additional advantage. A systematic user test and demonstration project was undertaken to analyze the performance capability of a commercially available electric automobile. The project included a six-month driving program by volunteer test drivers who used the car for daily trips to and from work. Although the performance of the test vehicle was only about half as good as can be expected with an electric commuter car specifically designed for its purpose, the reaction of volunteer test drivers in the COMCAR project was positive. Experience and data obtained in this project led to recommendations for further steps toward the development and introduction of large numbers of electric commuter cars for urban transportation.