2008 Electric Vehicles Available

The innovative electric car is here to stay. And really, what’s not to love: Clean, quiet and easy to use, an electric car gets the job done with efficiency and ease. From reduced dependence upon foreign oil to zero emissions and economical cost-of-use, electric cars offer many pros. Currently, one of the biggest cons is limited driving range (and recharge time) -- but those kinks are being worked out as you read this.

Here's what's currently available in electrics for 2008. Please drop us a line if you find more companies that offer clean motoring options, or check out these all-electric conversions.

Phoenix Motorcars

© Phoenix Motorcars

Check out these zero-emission, freeway-speed fleet vehicles. Phoenix has been producing fully functional electric trucks and SUVs for commercial fleet use since 2001. Based in Ontario, California, Phoenix Motorcars uses the Altairnano lithium titanate battery. They state that it’s a “non-toxic, all-battery solution to eliminate noise and toxic vehicle emissions that contribute to air pollution.” Phoenix Motorcars is slated to release a consumer version of its electric vehicle in late 2009. By mid 2008, a limited number of vehicles will be available for select consumers in California.

Reva Electric Car Company

© Reva Electric Car Company

Here’s a two-door hatchback that can provide a ride for up to four (2 adults, 2 kids)—and it’s available in over 2000 colors. Driving range is stated to be up to 80 km (about 50 miles) on a single charge, depending on usage. Con: currently available only in Bangalore, India.

Smart EV

© Daimler Global Media

Currently only available in Switzerland and the United Kingdom, the diminutive Smart EVs shine with clean zero emissions. Smart UK has deemed their availability to blue chip companies who can meet the renewable energy source power requirements, although conversions for a standard Smart are also available. Easy to park and eye-catching, hopefully this version will become available in the U.S. soon also.

Tango

© Commuter Cars Corporation

Showcased as the "World’s Fastest Urban Car," the Tango is 5 inches slimmer than a Honda Goldwing and can accelerate from 0 to 60 in 4 seconds. Touted as combining the speed and agility of a motorcycle with the security and comfort of a sports car, the Tango uses lead acid batteries. The current model T600 kit is priced at $108,000. The T200 and T100 can also be pre-ordered by deposit and are slated for future production, with expected prices at $39,900 and $18,700. Fully refundable deposits are currently being accepted to confirm market interest and secure investment funding.

Tesla Motors - Tesla Roadster

© Tesla Motors

An electric car that goes zero to 60 mph in less than 4 seconds? One that touts a top speed of 125 mph? Yes, this is the company that’s caught everyone’s eye with the Tesla Roadster’s enviro-style. Driving range is between 170 to 267 miles, depending upon driving conditions, with impressive fuel economy numbers: 221 GGE EPA combined. Interested? With the 2008s all reserved, the 2009s are available to interested buyers for a base price of $98,000.

TH!NK

photo © Think

This little urban car powers up overnight and offers a range of 124 miles in city driving with a top speed of 62 mph (100 kmh). Choose sodium or lithium batteries depending upon your driving requirements. General Electric has invested $4 million into this Norwegian electric car manufacturer, and $20 million into A123 systems, the battery manufacturer used in these little zippers, and it probably won’t be long before we see these across the Atlantic. Concepts in development include the TH!NK Ox crossover 5-seater and the TH!NK open convertible. TH!NK city is currently available in Norway and next in Denmark and Sweden. Production and marketing plans include main European cities in 2009, hitting London first.

ZAP - Zero Air Pollution® - Xebra Car

© Zero Air Pollution®

Offering an interesting range of electric vehicles, from off-road 4x4s to scooters, the on-road ZAP vehicles start at $11,200 (Xebra Sedan) and go to $60,000 (for the stylish ZAP-X electric car shown here). The popular 3-wheeled Xebra offers speeds up to 40 mph with seating up to 4 (303 lbs.) and a range of 25 miles (40 km) per charge with standard 110 Volt AC.

ZENN Motor Company

© ZENN - Zero Emission No Noise

The ZENN – Zero Emission No Noise – it’s a sporty NEV that can go up to 25 mph and 35-50 miles on a single charge on roads with limits up to 35 mph. It offers comfort, convenience and utility in an all-electric car that can plug into any standard electrical outlet and charge up in about 4 hours.