Japanese car company Nissan will offer its new all-electric car to Vancouver buyers if the city agrees to fund a network of charging stations, the Toronto Star reported Oct 16.
The vehicle, called the Leaf, would hit Vancouver dealerships in 2011 if the government installs a series of 220-volt outlets throughout the city.
Using these outlets, it would take drivers about eight hours to fully charge their car, which would then be able to travel 160 km between charges.
Nissan, who has struck similar deals in 30 other cities, said the charging stations “need to be in place to ensure a satisfactory customer experience.” With dreams of becoming the world’s greenest city by 2011, Vancouver isn’t putting up a fight.
It’s unfortunate taxpayers would have to foot the bill for the new outlet system, regardless of whether or not they drive electric cars. But Vancouver’s willingness to move ahead with eco-friendly installations is a step towards environmental awareness that will have a positive impact on the air we all breathe.
The success of all-electric cars will depend on the number of people who are both willing to convert and able to afford them. Currently, only a small number of people use electric vehicles and would benefit from the chargers.
Given the high cost of electric vehicles, it’s unlikely the majority of Vancouver’s population would be able to afford one—meaning few would benefit from a network of chargers. Getting electric cars on the streets will give Vancouverites visible progress toward their goal of out-greening other cities. But it’s important to move beyond the surface hype of electric vehicles and consider the underlying factors that might not make them so green, after all.
The city should proceed carefully while considering the cost of developing charging stations, as the money comes from taxpayers’ pockets.
With the rise in dense urban living spaces, public transit and biking are often better options than choosing to drive. The City of Vancouver should focus on promoting these methods of transportation rather than encouraging a higher volume of cars on the roads.
While paving the way for electric cars is an exciting initiative that shows environmental consciousness, more dialogue is needed so Nissan’s deal doesn’t become a vehicle for taxpayer frustration.
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