Electric Automobiles Available Now on the Market

With the price of gasoline fuel exceeding $4 in many places across the US, demand for alternative powered vehicles is certain to grow. There are currently five electric car models available for purchase, but these vehicles offer nothing for commuters and those individuas that have to use freeways and higher speed roads. The Tesla Roadster is the exception with a far greater range, higher speed availability, and less time necessary for a full recharge; but at a price tag over $100K, few have the resources for such an investment. The main reason this vehicle is so expensive is due the use of lithium-ion batteries (the same type used in cellular telephones). The Zenn, Gem, and Dynasty electric cars are far more affordable, but they lack any real power for speeds above 25 mph. All have ranges of about 30 miles or so for a single charge, and it will take a minimum of six hours to fully recharge the batteries on these cars. The Zap Xebra has a higher speed potential, but this vehicle is in essence an off roader dressed up as a car with only one wheel in the front. These early electric cars will not make any impression on the car markets except for those that are wealthy and collectors. Expect less expensive, more powerful, more faster vehicles with greater ranges and faster recharge times in the next few years which will make them realistic options for consumers to consider purchasing. Do not expect larger vehicles that are economical and practical in size like minivans, pickup trucks, and fullsize vans that are powered with electricity for at least several years to a decade.
=
http://money.cnn.com/galleries/2008/autos/0806/gallery.electric_cars_now/index.html
=
*****