16 March 2010

Search

Poll

News Categories

Show categories | Hide categories

Pages

Show pages | Hide pages

G-Wiz Lithium Ion

Highly criticised and yet much loved, the G-Wiz is one of the most controversial and instantly recognisable vehicles in motoring. This innovative vehicle from Indian manufacturer REVA, which has produced more electric cars than any other carmaker, has now been sent accelerating into the future with the creation of the G-Wiz lithium ion electric car.

History of the G-Wiz Lithium Ion

The first G-Wiz, which was produced from 2001-2007, included batteries located under the front seats and a motor that could handle a maximum power of 17.6hp. This power came from lead-acid batteries and it did not have the strengthened chassis to allow subsequent models to pass a crash test at 25mph. Due to its low weight it was classified as a heavy quadricycle rather than a car and the UK Department of Transport found serious safety concerns after crashing the vehicle into a deformable barrier at 35mph. Despite this, the REVA Electric Car Company claims that the vehicle has an excellent safety record particularly as it is predominantly driven in slow urban traffic.

The G-Wiz may be about to escape the city parameters however with the G-Wiz Lithium Ion model that was unveiled in January 2009. It uses the latest G-Wiz platform but has a range of 75 miles per charge with REVA also introducing a fast charge station capable of recharging the vehicle to 90 per cent in just one hour.

The hope for REVA is that it can now address a number of commuter needs rather than just those who drive purely in slow urban traffic.

Environmental credentials of the G-Wiz Lithium Ion

As a zero emission vehicle, the G-Wiz Lithium Ion is exempt from the London Congestion Charge and road tax. It should be noted however, that many environmentalists contest the “zero emission” description inaccurate as long as electricity is sourced from non renewable generators rather than renewable sources such as solar and wind power.

Regardless, the G-Wiz Lithium Ion presents a greater option to the general public than its predecessors and attempts to address some of the criticisms of electric cars. Electrics are often ridiculed for being slow and clunky, as well as for their inability to drive long distances. However, the G-Wiz Lithium Ion includes faster acceleration, shorter charging times, less energy consumption, improved cold weather performance and maintenance free battery operation with a longer operating life. With an extended range, commuters will now be able to travel further without needing a second car.

The introduction of fast charge stations also represents a massive boost as local authorities and businesses can now create the charging and parking infrastructure necessary for electrics to prosper.

G-Wiz Lithium Ion statistics

Here are some crucial statistics about the G-Wiz Lithium Ion:

Charge time: Six hours with normal outlets but can be charged to 90 per cent in one hour with a fast charging station.
CO2 emissions: None.
Range: 75miles.
Top speed: 50mph.

Future of the G-Wiz Lithium Ion

The G-Wiz Lithium Ion was made available for pre-order in February 2009 with the first deliveries taken in May – for more information on this and other green cars check out the latest news section of TheGreenCarWebsite.co.uk.

Author: Lee Sibbald, March 25, 2009

On the forum...