Electric vehicles powered by on-board battery packs are becoming more an more popular not only between users, but also between car manufacturers. These eco-friendly machines produce no pollution, but their use increases demand for electricity generation. Different models are usually build with expensive batteries that must be replaced, but otherwise incur very low maintenance costs. The latest models are more powerful and feature upgraded interiors.
Electric cars are already in use and can be seen on the streets of many American and European cities. Car photos can be viewed on the Internet.
In search of what it calls a MegaCity vehicle, BMW launched its own electric car at the 2010 Detroit auto show, in the U.S. The manufacturer’s concept is built on the 1-series BMW platform and will serve as the basis for a test fleet of electric vehicles that will further the company’s research. Currently, BMW is running a test fleet of 600 electric Minis. The model is called MiniE and already was released on the marked. The new Concept ActiveE is the next car BMW intends to test, planning to expand its fleet. With its current technology, the car has a range of about 100 miles, and the battery pack takes 4.5 hours to charge off a 32 amp source, according to BMW. Performance figures are not stunning, with acceleration to 60 mph in about 8.5 seconds.
The BMW’s electric vehicle is designed to drive very similar to the Tesla Roadster, which is one of the few highway-capable electric automobiles for sale to the public 2010.
