Electric cars on the horizon?

The article "L.A. Launches Electric Car," Dec. 11, paints a bright future for electric vehicles (EVs). Someday we'll have smog-free cars and clear urban skylines. In the meantime we can just plug our noses and wait for the LA301 [prototype car] in 1993.

Several years ago GM said they would have an EV by 1991. Now they can't be pinned down on a time, estimating their Impact or newly unveiled Mule to be available towards the mid-'90s.

While the Big Three consider the marketability of electric vehicles, there are a number of small manufacturers around the nation who believe a market already exists using today's technology. Solar Electric Engineering makes a compact EV retrofit, capable of traveling 40 to 60 miles, at speeds of 65 mph; remarkably similar to the LA301, minus the auxiliary gas engine.

These cars are available today. Those waiting for Detroit may see a lot of foot-dragging. It's the oil-automotive alliance that has the most to lose in a world full of clean, efficient, low-maintenance electric cars. Alex Campbell, Santa Rosa, Calif. Solar Electric Engineering, Inc.

Letters are welcome. Only a selection can be published, subject to condensation, and none acknowledged. Please address them to "Readers Write," One Norway St., Boston, MA 02115.

You've read  of  free articles. Subscribe to continue.
QR Code to Electric cars on the horizon?
Read this article in
https://www.csmonitor.com/1992/0106/letter3.html
QR Code to Subscription page
Start your subscription today
https://www.csmonitor.com/subscribe