EVs enjoy resurgence 'as cost of conventional cars rises'

Date: 15/7/2011

The cost of hydrocarbon-based fuel is only going in one direction - "and that's up", according to one sector commentator.

Robert Hokin, Chief Executive of ecoConnect CIC, says that as it becomes more expensive to maintain conventional transport, electric vehicles (EVs) have witnessed a resurgence in popularity.

He explains that both pure EVs and hybrid cars are becoming increasingly economical to produce, while the technology behind them is also more viable.

Mr Hokin notes that the technology of battery storage - which has always been a "critical component" of the automobiles' success - has enjoyed an improved charging infrastructure recently.

The charging infrastructure Mr Hokin references includes developments currently underway in multiple battery technology. Initiatives such as the Better Place network are built on the premise of replacing spent cells with new ones when a driver stops to refuel.

In addition, he suggests that the ability to charge EVs has now become "a little bit more widespread".

All of this has helped to inspire confidence in the vehicles among consumers, he says, meaning that the cars are now seen as a more practical transport solution than was the case in the past.

The London Assembly's Environment Committee meeting took place this week (July 12th), where it was discussed how to best implement a charging structure for EVs in the capital.

Posted by Nick Anderson