The following article is taken from the Electric Auto Association

US oil production has been declining since 1970 (since 1998 in Alaska) and US imports have risen by 67% since 1970[1].

The Union of Concerned Scientists states the US (4% of the earth's population) consumes 25% of the world's total oil production [2]. Our demand grows daily. We must have alternatives!

Why EVs?
EVs offer the best and cheapest alternative to petroleum-based transportation. Driving an EV helps improve the quality of life for all Americans. They are fun to drive. It is patriotic!

Can EVs go fast?
Yes! For real speed, check out the National Electric Drag Racing Association (nedra.com).

EVs just move the pollution, don't they?
No. Even including the effects of electricity generation, the California Air Resources Board reports that EVs are 90% cleaner than the newest (model year 2005) and cleanest conventional gasoline-powered car vehicles [3] - not including the environmental impact of oil refining! EVs are a proven "clean and green" choice.

Are EVs practical?
Yes. Studies show that 80% of daily commuting is less than 40 miles. Internal combustion vehicles generate the greatest amount of pollution during the first 20 minutes of operation. EVs require no warm-up period and are the perfect transportation option.

Where do you “fill up” an EV?
EVs are primarily charged at home overnight, using surplus (low-cost) electricity. There are also many public charging locations (evchargernews.com).

Are EVs expensive to purchase?
Not when you consider the total lifetime costs[4]. As production volumes increase, EVs will cost no more than conventional cars and trucks in every price range. Many states and the federal government recognize this low-volume pricing issue and offer incentives to reduce the initial cost of buying or leasing an EV. Currently there are no EVs available from the major auto makers. Toyota's RAV4-EV stopped production in Nov 2002 when they sold their last one. [Used EVs are sometimes available. Keep an eye on companies like Commuter Cars - they're taking orders today for a Tango.]

UPDATE -5/10/06 The ZAP Xebra is NOW available. 100% electric, under $10,500 delivered to our store in Salem. Oregon.

Are EVs expensive to operate?
No. ZAP Xebra* costs less than 1 cent/mile to operate. EVs are nearly maintenance free (no smog checks, oil changes, or tune-ups). At $3.00* per gallon, a gasoline-powered car must average 97 mpg* to match this! And today's gas prices are higher than $3.00/gal!*

Do batteries pollute landfills?
The Battery Council International reports that 93% of all battery lead is recycled. A higher recycling rate than newspapers (55%) or aluminum cans (42%). Typical new lead-acid batteries contain 60-80% recycled lead and plastic [5]. A true recycling success!

* Changes by webmaster to make info compatible with our product line and latest gasoline prices (5-10-06)

Electric Wheels is owned by Larry and Diane Dye.

Electric Wheels Inc. is Salem based, serving Oregon. We are located at:
1555 12th St SE,
Suite 110,
Salem OR 97302.

We can be reached at 503-485-0588 or by fax at 503-485-0590.

The time has come for electric vehicles, and we are here to give that to you.

Saving the earth, one vehicle at a time.