Electric vehicles take centre stage as petrol prices rise again

As a new report shows petrol and diesel prices on the rise again, town-based drivers and businesses should take a fresh look at using electric vehicles to save money on their motoring costs, according to Lawrence Holland, general manager of ultra-light electric vehicle manufacturer Aixam Mega, which now operates the London NICE Car dealership.

The AA’s Fuel Price Report for February 2009 shows that prices for unleaded fuel rose nearly five per cent over the past month, while diesel prices also rose, albeit more modestly.

Mr Holland said: “Road fuel prices are very volatile, but there is no doubt that the general trend is upwards. Electricity prices, on the other hand, are falling.

“Even when electricity prices were at their peak, it cost less than £1 to fully charge one of our vehicles, and total running costs were between 2p and 3p per mile.”

Aixam Mega says that using one of its vehicles for short-hop and frequent-stop town centre driving, which represent the bulk of journeys for most urban motorists and businesses, will have a big impact on ongoing motoring costs, and will also help to cut greenhouse gas emissions.

The company’s products include the Mega e-City, an all-electric vehicle with a choice of two and four seats, and Mega Multitrucks, a range of ultra-light commercials typically used for light deliveries and collections.

Mr Holland said: “The Mayor of London has said he is committed to reducing C02 levels on London’s roads over the next few years.

“Our vehicles will help to achieve that, whilst saving drivers money at the same time.”

For more information visit mega-vehicles.com