Frequently Asked Questions about electric cars - Optimal Energy
What are the benefits of electric cars?
Electric vehicles have numerous benefits. Some of these benefits include:
• Overall running costs are 10 to 35 lower than with comparable petrol or diesel cars, and this saving is likely to continue growing
• Zero emissions in operation
• 80% less pollution from green house gases in comparison to petrol or diesel vehicles
• A great reduction in noise pollution – electric vehicles are virtually silent
• No clutch or gear changes for smoother acceleration
• Comparatively low “fuel” costs: approximately 5 to 20% of petrol or diesel costs, depending on local fuel costs
• Incentives are in place in many parts of the world to own and drive electric vehicles and the list of such regions and countries is growing
• Overall running costs are 10 to 35 lower than with comparable petrol or diesel cars, and this saving is likely to continue growing
• Zero emissions in operation
• 80% less pollution from green house gases in comparison to petrol or diesel vehicles
• A great reduction in noise pollution – electric vehicles are virtually silent
• No clutch or gear changes for smoother acceleration
• Comparatively low “fuel” costs: approximately 5 to 20% of petrol or diesel costs, depending on local fuel costs
• Incentives are in place in many parts of the world to own and drive electric vehicles and the list of such regions and countries is growing
What are the particular strengths of Joule?
Traditionally, electric cars have been small, slow, and unsightly and had a limited driving range. This forced end–users to compromise in a number of areas. Joule does not.
• It is a competitively priced, no–compromise, beautifully styled, five–seat passenger vehicle
• Joule has a nominal driving range of 300kms (UDDS standard) or 230km (NEDC standard)
• It is highway capable with a top speed limited to 135km/h
• Joule has all the styling and features you would expect from a high-end midsize conventional car.
• It is a competitively priced, no–compromise, beautifully styled, five–seat passenger vehicle
• Joule has a nominal driving range of 300kms (UDDS standard) or 230km (NEDC standard)
• It is highway capable with a top speed limited to 135km/h
• Joule has all the styling and features you would expect from a high-end midsize conventional car.
How much will Joule cost?
Joule will be entering mass production by the end of 2013. The price cannot be fixed now.
How big is Joule inside?
Joule is a 5–seater passenger vehicle with a 700–litre boot or trunk. It is 3.9m long and 1.8m wide, giving it a very spacious interior and a very compact exterior.
When will Joule be available?
Joule will be in mass manufacture from 2013, for sale in mid–2014.
How fast does Joule accelerate?
Joule has a very brisk city performance and accelerates from 0 to 60km/h in less than 5 seconds, and 0 to 100km/h in less than 16 seconds.
Can I test drive a Joule?
Joule is currently undergoing extensive testing. Test drives will be scheduled in the future. Please watch the press or our online newsletter for details.
Is Joule aimed at the South African or export market?
Optimal Energy has designed Joule for the global market but Joule will initially be sold in South Africa.
How safe is Joule in comparison to other cars?
Joule is designed to the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UN ECE) safety standards, and includes all modern safety features such as side impact protection, ABS and airbags. The goal is to achieve a minimum 4–star EURO NCAP rating.
Does Joule come with batteries?
No. The purchase price of Joule excludes batteries. The batteries will be leased separately and this monthly lease cost will include the warranty and servicing of the batteries as well as the electricity cost. Optimal Energy retains ownership of the batteries to ensure that the batteries remain in optimal condition and that any battery actions do not concern the customer.
What about warranty, roadside assistance, etc?
Joule will come with a full three–year warranty and 24/7 roadside assistance.
Will a completely quiet car be dangerous to pedestrians?
No. Research from cities with electric trams and big bicycle populations show that quiet vehicles do not pose a threat to pedestrians. Joule will comply with any future legislation in this regard.
Why does Optimal Energy not rather use bio–fuels or hydrogen?
Optimal Energy believes that transportation will not be a single technology scenario and that bio–fuels and hydrogen will play a part in the next few decades. However, electricity and batteries, given their respective efficiencies, will most likely dominate the immediate future of urban transport.
Why is Optimal Energy selling this vehicle, rather than distributing through a dealer network?
The retail, distribution and after–sales service of an electric vehicle are quite different from conventional vehicles, and the conventional model is not cost effective for an EV.
Does South Africa/Eskom have enough electricity to use in cars?
Yes. Eskom (South Africa’s national electricity company) has enough capacity to supply electrical energy to millions of cars without affecting its current customer base. Between 11pm and 6am, Eskom, like many other electricity utilities around the world, has vast surplus energy generating capacity.
Does Joule have air–conditioning, radio, electric windows, MP3 player etc?
Joule has all the features expected of a vehicle in this class.
Will an Apple iPod or Bluetooth mobile phone work with Joule?
Yes. Joule’s sound system supports the iPod and the Bluetooth interface.
Where can I see Joule?
Joule will be exhibited on a number of occasions. Please continue to visit our website, subscribe to our newsletter and watch the press for details.