Chrysler just gave the public a first look at their new Peapod – a funky looking, next generation neighbourhood electric car scheduled for production in 2009. Aside from the funky modern style, the Peapod will come with a host of hot interior features - the center console will offer iPod integration as well as hands free operation of the customer's iPhone. Perfect for the city dweller or suburbanite.
Other features include ergonomic mesh seating that enables air circulation for comfort, as well as weight reduction, and the use of eco-friendly recycled and recyclable materials. “We have evolved the GEM design language to better reflect its eco-friendly performance and its upbeat, positive image,” said Peter Arnell, Chrysler LLC’s Chief Innovation Officer who led the design and engineering process.
These funky neighbourhood electric vehicles will emit no pollutants from their use (excluding the fuels used to create the electricity used to charge the vehicle) and will use no gasoline.
Perhaps best of all is that these funky neighbourhood vehicles will emit no pollutants from their use (excluding the fuels used to create the electricity used to charge the vehicle) and will use no gasoline. The vehicles can be recharged anytime, and anywhere, with a standard 110-volt outlet. Recharge time is approximately six to eight hours.
GEM neighborhood electric vehicles have a top speed of 25 miles per hour, a range of up to 30 miles per charge - battery charge is extended through the use of regenerative braking - and perhaps best of all, they are street legal in more than 40 states.
Currently, in Canada, only two municipalities, Oak Bay in Victoria, followed by Vancouver, have passed bylaws to permit the use of low speed electric vehicles on roads with speed limits of 50kph. Hopefully, more municipalities will have changed their bylaws by the time the Peapod is widely available. These small, sassy personal vehicles will be great for shorter city commuting.
Visit: www.greenecomobility.com
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