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(NAPSI)-A growing number of Americans have steered clear of rising gasoline prices by turning to electric cars.
Fans of electric cars-which run on a battery that is charged by plugging into an outlet at home-say they offer drivers a variety of advantages over their gas-powered counterparts.
For instance, by some estimates, electrics could reduce CO2 emissions by more than 90 percent compared to internal combustion vehicles (even counting the emissions from fossil-fueled power plants). Additionally, the U.S. Department of Transportation reports that plug-in cars can meet the needs of 80 percent of the American driving public.
The Best Electrics
So what's hot on the electric car circuit? A new car called the Xebra, made by ZAP (stands for Zero Air Pollution), has become popular. It's offered in a sedan, truck and even "xero" model, which comes complete with a rooftop solar panel.
New types of electric cars offer fast, fun rides for less-with minimal impact on the environment-and produce hardly any vibrations or exhaust. But the real draw? They cost just 1-3 cents per mile to operate, compared to about 20 cents a mile for a gas car. Here's a closer look:
How Fast Does It Go?
The car runs at up to 40 mph, which is ideal for in-town or city use.
How Does It Charge?
A standard 110v outlet is all that is required.
What's The Battery Life?
With normal use, the no-maintenance, deep-cycle batteries should last up to three years.
How Long Do The Batteries Need To Charge?
A full charge takes eight hours, but an optional Fast Charger is available that can charge in less than an hour.
An optional Solar Charger is available to trickle charge the batteries while it is just sitting in the parking lot.
"Electric car technology is here and the race is on to see who can take the lead in creating sustainable transportation that is affordable and will meet the needs of the future," says Chairman Gary Starr of the publicly owned California corporation. "EV's will play a major role in the fight against global warming, and at about $10,000, the Xebra is a big step towards affordable, nonpolluting technology."
In addition to providing electric cars, Starr says ZAP is working with individuals, corporations, government, professionals and nonprofits around the world to plant 1 million trees throughout the world by 2010. "We are also committing to plant trees for every electric car we sell, and with the help of our partners we have already planted over 69,686 trees," Starr explains. See www.zaptrees.org.
Ready To Take A Ride?
People can arrange a test-drive or visit a dealer by calling (800) 251-4555 or registering at www.zapworld.com.
Plugging In-New types of electric cars offer fast, fun rides for less-and with no gas or smog.