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Secret's of the world's first zero emission Range Rover revealed at AAE2008 Technology in Motion Conference.
The concept of an electric Rang Rover that performs as well as its petrol or diesel engined counterpart whilst halving the damage to the environment in the process (in Barry Shrier's own words that is the worst case scenario) is one that SAE Publishing consultant Jonathan Masding found had instant appeal. Running costs for example are reduced by a whopping 80%, giving savings of around £40 for each tank of fuel (based on current prices of course). The downside - the relatively short distance between having to recharge the battery and the length of time the vehicle is out of action whilst recharging is taking place - is the subject of much scrutiny and an area which is being constantly reviewed.
In his compelling presentation, Liberty Electric Cars CEO Barry Shrier revealed the advanced technology that underpins the world's first electric Range Rover.
Liberty Electric Cars is addressing the rapidly expanding demand for zero and low emission cars, through the development of its unique electric vehicle technology platform that will power cars which satisfy the sports, family and luxury sectors, such as the Range Rover. The company engineers electric propulsion into existing vehicles, replacing the internal combustion engine with electrical power. This approach has less environmental impact than creating a new range of vehicles, and allows customers drive the vehicle they want, without the cost to the environment.
The Liberty Electric Range Rover reduces CO2 output by up to six tonnes per year, per vehicle and delivers a driving experience that combines fast acceleration, high top end speed and huge economies – electricity is much cheaper than petrol, so running costs are 80 per cent less than the petrol equivalent.
It runs for 200 miles before needing a charge, and some models will carry on board range extending generators. Costs range between £95,000 and £125,000 depending on model and specification.
Shrier predicts an automotive engineering revolution. He says: “We are witnessing the end of the internal combustion engine and the dawn of the electric car industry”.
In response to the need for a rapid and radical ‘environmental technology’ shift across the entire industry, Liberty Electric Cars has also launched the Zero Emission Vehicle Foundation. The Foundation is accelerating the introduction of zero emission technologies by raising awareness, and attracting funds and investment into the sector.
The Foundation’s board, is chaired by Lord Anthony St John of Bletso, and includes other prominent figures from the automotive industry, the sciences, Government and the private sector. It brings component suppliers and vehicle manufacturers together, to create the right connections, through its quarterly meetings.
The company is investing £30 million and will creating 250 new manufacturing technology jobs.
www.liberty-ecars.com
tel: 0800 1079908
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