When most people think of electric cars, they think of offerings like the Tesla Model S, or the Nissan LEAF — or, for that matter, of plug-in hybrids like the Chevy Volt. But what about those looking for something simpler? Those who don’t really need something as capable (and expensive) as a Model S or even a Nissan LEAF? There are of course “smart cars,” but even those can run a bit more expensive than what one may be looking for.
On that note, there’s something of a new movement (apparently) involving the use of “Neighborhood Electric Vehicles” (NEVs). This involves the use of golf carts as a means of normal transportation for people (seniors, in particular).
Given the convenience of such vehicles (and their relatively affordable nature), who can really blame someone for choosing one over something like a Model S (or Model X)?
Planetizen provides more:
They’re already used widely in parks, college campuses, enclosed communities, and, of course, golf courses. Now small towns are jumping on board in a push to make NEVs and other low-speed electrics the “cars” of choice for those who don’t need to travel far. They’re also much cheaper than full-size EVs.
In an odd twist, seniors are the demographic most suited to pioneer this transportation innovation. “Dozens of communities have outlined schemes to integrate carts and similarly sized vehicles into their transportation networks,” particularly places where older folks tend to live, and not limited to retirement communities.
Sun Belt suburbs, so long the domain of soccer-mom SUVs and vanity pickup trucks, are poised to embrace the humble electric golf cart. “Why drive a cart? Certainly, disposable income, warm weather, and relatively dense settlements are prerequisites. But drivers also say that NEVs allow for old-fashioned urban social interaction.”
So, in many ways, a substitute for a city car that doesn’t possess excessive size (or costs), and doesn’t use fossil fuels. Interesting. Any thoughts?
Image Credit: Miheco via Flickr CC
My wife and I are fortunate to live in a small community where we could go to almost anything using 25 mph or 35 mph roads. I just want something to keep out the wind and rain, a little luggage space, and a way to keep warm in winter. Could survive our short trips w/o A/C. I bike a lot now but getting long in the tooth. These EV’s sound near ideal.
Ideally like to go in with a couple of other people and share.
Thanks for raising my awareness.
I think NEV’s are a great idea for Senior Citizens. Some retirement communities nowadays are quite expansive. Instead of driving a $30,000 or so EV, you could instead purchase a $10,000 or so NEV. As you wouldn’t put too many miles on an NEV compared to a regular car, you could buy a new NEV which would probably last you the rest of your life, especially if you have a garage to shelter the NEV when not in use. Buying a four seat NEV a husband and wife and another couple could fit in the NEV. You could go to social gatherings, golf courses, nature areas, convenience stores, whatever else is available in the retirement communities or nearby towns on back roads. Also, as the NEV is small enough, you could possibly have the NEV loaded onto a large enough SUV, and take the NEV with you to out of the area vacations, or family visits, etc..