First Name | Chris |
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Last Name | Thompson |
Email Address | Chris@GreenAutos.com |
Affiliation | |
Subject | MSV's make more sense! |
Comment | We believe that it is important that the ZEV regulations should be more specific in definition of "CITY" ZEV as to its capabilities and equipment. NEV (LSV) is well defined by FMVSS#500 as well as by California Vehicle Code. CITY ZEV could be both important and cost-effective solution to California effort to both reduces "pollutant" emissions as well as reduction of CO2 emissions by increased use of PURE ELECTRIC VEHICLES in local city traffic. Current Lead-Acid Sealed Battery technology can provide 20 to 40 mile range per charge and recharge times of under 4 hours using standard 15A 120V AC household source. NEV (LSV) due to their Federally mandated maximum speed of 25 MPH on level surface over one mile distance are perceived by majority of public as "too slow" to be safe in typical traffic patterns in California cities where most major streets have speed limits of 35 MPH or more. Several states (Oregon, Montana, Washington) have already adopted MSV (Medium Speed Vehicle) regulations permitting PURE ELECTRIC VEHICLES to attain maximum speed of 35 MPH and otherwise confirm to FMVSS #500 (LSV). We are asking that MSV "definition" is included in the proposed ZEV regulations, so that further steps to include it in California Vehicle Code and also get new class (MSV) established on a Federal level by NHTSA can be undertaken. CITY MSV capable of 35-MPH top speed in typical traffic would be far more attractive to California consumers as second and/or third in family vehicles. Since MOST pollutants are emitted during COLD START and RE-START of conventional vehicles, the emission reduction contribution of MSV would be substantial. Also the economic facts can not be ignored, if MSV is substantially less expensive (under $10,000) than a small economy car (now in $12,000 to $16,000 range) then far more consumers will seriously consider its purchase especially with addition of any grants and or tax credits. Full function electric vehicles in costs ranging from $30,000 to $100,000 are just small niche vehicles which will never achieve any great market volume to make any measurable impact on the California environment. However low cost MSV could gain substantial popularity and reduce the real annual gasoline vehicle miles driven by average California family by from 3,000 to up to 7,000 miles annually. This is significantly more annual miles than is logged by current owners of NEV's in California. |
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Date and Time Comment Was Submitted | 2008-03-06 12:16:20 |
If you have any questions or comments please contact Clerk of the Board at (916) 322-5594.