www.vectrix.com RSS Feed http://www.vectrix.com en-us © 2008 www.vectrix.com Global site for the Vectrix High Perfomance 100% Electric Two Wheel Vehicle. Consumer Incentives Toward the Vectrix States of California, Georgia and West Virginia are offering significant consumer incentives toward the purchase of the Vectrix.

$1500 Rebate in California

On February 22, 2008, CARB issued a press release announcing that they are offering up to $5,000 in rebates to Californians who purchase alternative fuel and electric vehicles.

Under the Fueling Alternatives rebate program administered by the California Center for Sustainable Energy, $1.62 million in funding will be dispensed. The program is part of $25 million of overall funding that came out of Assembly Bill 1811 -- authored by Speaker Fabian Nunez (D-Los Angeles) and passed in 2007 -- which promotes alternative fuel infrastructure and vehicles. The rebates are available for qualifying vehicles that are purchased or leased between May 24, 2007 and March 31, 2009, unless funding runs out first.

Rebates up to $3,000 are available for Honda and BAF Technologies compressed natural gas vehicles, $1,500 for the Vectrix zero emission maxi-scooter, and between $950 and $1,300 for certain models of the GEM neighborhood electric vehicle. Up to $5,000 is available for full-function zero emission vehicles once they are added to the list of eligible vehicles.

To receive a rebate, vehicles must be ARB-certified (with the exception of zero emission maxi-scooters), comply with all federal motor vehicle safety standards, and meet a minimum manufacturer warranty. ARB staff are anticipating most of the rebates to be taken up by consumers who have bought eligible vehicles since last May, and have been waiting for the state funding to be allocated before submitting their rebate applications.

Income tax credit in Georgia

Georgia offers an income tax credit of up to 20% of the cost to purchase or lease a ZEV, or $5,000, whichever is less. Go to our Vectrix dealer in Georgia.

Facts and Forms

LEV/ZEV and Electric Vehicle Charger Tax Credit Fact Sheet
Electric Vehicle Charger (EVC) Certification Form For State Tax Credit
LEV / ZEV Certification Form For State Tax Credit

Income tax credit in West Virginia

The State of West Virginia will help you defer the cost of a motor vehicle that operates on alternative fuel by providing you a tax credit against your income taxes. Download this PDF for more details.

Updated October 28, 2008

]]> http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_1 http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_1 Tue, 28 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT EKU Police Add Electric Motorcycle to Emergency Fleet
The Vectrix motorcycle, if driven the same amount of time as a cruiser, would save the University almost $10,000 (its approximate cost) annually if gas averaged $3. EKU’s police cruisers use an average of 2,521gallons of fuel annually and require $2,300 in maintenance, not counting unforeseeable repairs, Merriman noted.

“It is an ideal fit for our college police force,” Merriman said, “because it will allow us to continue our community-oriented approach to policing that facilitates more interaction with the student body, faculty and staff. It allows us to patrol areas not accessible to traditional police vehicles, much like our bicycle patrol.”

During test drives of the Vectrix around campus in August, “members of our community were quick to approach the officer to discuss the new patrol vehicle, which resulted in immediate interaction.”

The motorcycle, manufactured by Vectrix California, can go from 0 to 50 mph in 6.8 seconds and carry two passengers.

Click HERE to read the full article.

Updated November 17, 2008

]]> http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_138 http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_138 Mon, 17 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT Summer scooter sales, lifestyle changes equal lower demand for gas, lower prices
Several local dealers report their sales are up.

Shelby Stirrat, owner of Scoot Over-Fun in Motion, 4534 E. Broadway, says sales are up 70 percent. "And last year was an up year, too," she said.

Stirrat, who has been in business five years, touts her store as the Tucson region’s "first scooter-only shop."

Stirrat said university students, professors and staff have always been customers because of the tight parking situation at the University of Arizona. But this year, she has seen a new kind of customer — commuters with children who have gotten rid of their cars and traded them in for scooters.

While many assume scooter buyers are primarily young people, Stirrat said most buyers actually are 45 years of age or older.

Mike Schultz, owner of Arizona Victory Tucson, 1102 N. Anita Ave., said "scooters are going through the roof — and motorcycles too."

Schultz also has been in business about five years.

He said national dealer news organizations say scooter sales are up 65 percent in the past year.

"People who travel 12,000 miles a year can save $4,000 to $6,000 on gas alone," Schultz said. "And here in Arizona, we have the weather to enjoy a more economical means of transportation."

But people who don’t have much money and could probably benefit most from riding a scooter aren’t the buyers he is seeing. Instead, they’re people who are in good financial shape and can afford to finance the purchase of a scooter.

"They’re parking their cars because they can’t sell them to anybody," he said.

Piaggio, the Italian manufacturer of high-quality Piaggio and Vespa scooter models, reported it sold 18,894 vehicles in the United States over the first eight months of the year, which it says is 2.6 percent of the country’s two-wheeler market. In the midst of $4-per-gallon gasoline, the company said its July sales had reached a 173 percent increase over July 2007.

The manufacturer has two dealerships in the Tucson market, Renaissance Motorcycles Vespa Tucson, 4411 E. Speedway, and Harley-Davidson of Tucson, 7355 N. I-10 Eastbound Frontage Road, Marana.

Vespa Tucson owner Steve Spreter says sales were off "off the charts" in the summer months but since gas prices have started to fall again, so have sales of the Vespas.

"The cost of gasoline has a lot to do with it," said Spreter, who has been selling Vespas for four years.

In addition to scooters, Spreter has another anti-gas guzzling tool in his arsenal — the totally electric Vectrix maxiscooter, made by Vectrix Corporation in Newport, R.I. His dealership just started selling the scooter. It’s priced at just just under $10,000 and can go 35 to 55 miles before it needs to be plugged in again.

Harley-Davidson of Tucson just started selling Vespas after seeing how brisk sales have been nationally, according to Eric Beaudot, assistant sales manager. Beaudot said the dealership’s Harley-Davidson Sportsters are also becoming harder to keep in stock.

"We used to have 20 available at any one time," he said. "Now we only have three to five, and we’re trying to get them to send us more."

Not only are commuters and older people picking up the scooter habit, but owners of old, stored motorcycles are dragging out their bikes and fixing them up, said Gaylen Brotherson, president of the National Motorcycle Dealers Association. Scooters are extremely affordable — some cost just $500 to $1,000, he said.

Further, Brotherson said, even the least fuel-efficient scooters get 50 or 60 miles per gallon, while some average over 100 miles per gallon.

Brotherson said he talks to 10 or 15 dealers a day and they all say scooter sales are up — anywhere from 20 percent to over 100 percent.

Read the original article HERE

Updated November 17, 2008

]]> http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_139 http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_139 Mon, 17 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT ELECTRIFYING EXPERIENCE FOR TRIPLE BRITISH SUPERBIKE CHAMPION
“I suppose initially I was a bit surprised to find an electric vehicle at a race track, but knowing Knockhill CEO Derek Butcher’s ability for innovative and forward thinking, and the strength of the team behind him, I suppose I should have been expecting something like this”. Niall added that he enjoyed riding the maxi scooter. “The acceleration, road holding and braking are all absolutely superb. Add in zero road tax and less than a penny a mile running costs and my initial response is entirely favourable. I hope to be carrying out a full road test and report in the New Year.”

For more information on Vectrix in Scotland, go to www.vectrixscotland.com. To arrange a test ride call 01383 745600 or email info@vectrixscotland.com.


Updated November 13, 2008

]]> http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_137 http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_137 Thu, 13 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT Vectrix elektriche motorscooter - Stroomversnelling
Cover

Part 1

Part 2

Updated November 3, 2008

]]> http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_133 http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_133 Mon, 03 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT Ride To Vote booth and on the road - by riding your motorcycle or scooter to vote!

Click HERE to read more.

Updated October 30, 2008

]]> http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_132 http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_132 Thu, 30 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT Scottish Police adopt electric scooter power. Lothian & Borders Police replace petrol patrol car with Vectrix electric maxi-scooter.

Click HERE to view full story.

Updated October 30, 2008

]]> http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_128 http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_128 Thu, 30 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT Electric Bikes Silently Taking Over the City The Earth Times examines how sales of the Vectrix are rapidly spreading across Europe.  Dignan McCulloch, Fleet Manager, Lothian & Borders Police in Scotland, comments on the Vectrix as a direct replacement for a petrol car within the force.

Click HERE to view full story.

Updated October 29, 2008

]]> http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_125 http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_125 Wed, 29 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT Formula Endorsement Formula 1 personalities Eddie Jordan, Damon Hill, Adrian Sutil and Giancarlo Fisichella all ride a Vectrix.

Click HERE to view full story.

Updated October 29, 2008

]]> http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_127 http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_127 Wed, 29 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT Vectrix - A Bright Idea Vectrix Dealer - Reaction Electric launches at Business Expo 2008.

Click HERE to view full story.

Updated October 23, 2008

]]> http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_117 http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_117 Thu, 23 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT I Bought a Vectrix Vectrix owner James Hubbard talks about his Vectrix after a year of ownership. All in all - after over a year, its still love!

Click HERE to view full story.

Updated October 22, 2008

]]> http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_118 http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_118 Wed, 22 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT Vectrix makes the list of top electric scooters
To view full article click HERE.

Updated October 20, 2008

]]> http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_110 http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_110 Mon, 20 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT Beat Rising Costs with Vectrix Electric Scooter Southport Visiter reviews the Vectrix.

Click HERE to view full story.

Updated October 17, 2008

]]> http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_111 http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_111 Fri, 17 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT Let the Juice Loose The Sun's - Janie Omorogbe looks at four alternative fuels.

Click HERE to view full story.

Updated October 17, 2008

]]> http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_112 http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_112 Fri, 17 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT Vectrix on 'Green Minute' programme, from Portuguese National Television.
See the Video HERE.


Updated October 15, 2008

]]> http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_105 http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_105 Wed, 15 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT Vectrix - One Year On

With radical new technologies providing us with ever faster, better, cheaper and sexier alternatives, many fall flat on their face a short time after use.  A year after the launch of the Vectrix, Peter Henshaw interviews the UK’s biggest breakdown organisation – The AA, one of the largest police forces in the UK - Strathclyde, as well as some daily commuters to see how their investment in Vectrix technology is providing them with cost effective green transportation. Click Here.

 

Updated October 12, 2008

]]> http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_96 http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_96 Sun, 12 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT New Scooter just Electric in beating crime - and traffic! Gareth Edwards from the Edinburgh Evening News interviews Dignan McCulloch, Fleet Manager at Lothian & Borders Police about their purchase of a Vectrix electric maxi scooter for active police duty at the Scottish Parliament Buildings.

Click HERE to view full story.

Updated October 10, 2008

]]> http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_113 http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_113 Fri, 10 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT Force India F1 Team Steers Electric Vectrix Dr Vijay Mallaya, Chairman & Managing Director of Force India looks forward to trying a Vectrix scooter.

Click HERE to view full story.

Updated October 1, 2008

]]> http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_115 http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_115 Wed, 01 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT Force India's Drivers use Vectrix bikes whenever possible. F1 Team Force India have two Vectrix bikes which their drivers, Giancarlo Fisichella and Adrian Sutil use as often as possible on the F1 Circuit.

Click HERE to view full story.

Updated October 1, 2008

]]> http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_114 http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_114 Wed, 01 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT F1 Driver Giancarlo Fisichella receives Vectrix "Electric Ambassador" Certificate. Rome. September 2008. European Sustainable Mobility Week.

In celebration of the European Sustainable Mobility Week - Sept 15 - 25, Vectrix continues its commitment and activities in support of the deployment of Zero Emissions vehicles and Environmental Protection in all major capital cities.
 
In the magnificent setting of Villa Borghese, Vectrix awarded, Formula One driver Giancarlo Fisichella, with the certificate "Ambassador of the Electric" for his illustrated initiatives towards environmental protection and as a stimulus to continue to convey the actions aimed at a more sustainable mobility.
 
During the event, friends, journalists and supporters of electric vehicles gathered on the beautiful terrace of the Casina Valadier, which was the setting for a presentation of a Vectrix maxi-scooter to M.Fisichellafor hispersonal use.  M. Fisichella who is already familiar with the Vectrix through his F1 Team Force India who own two Vectrix bikes, said.  "I am grateful to Vectrix for this recognition, especially for the opportunity to use one of these extraordinary vehicles to commute during my stay in Rome. Getting around safely without polluting and silent, is an extraordinary feeling that gives me the opportunity to contribute, to some extent, and reduce harmful emissions into the atmosphere, for which we are all responsible. 
 
Giovanni Deleo, MD of Marketing and Communications for Vectrix Europe" said. "We award this recognition to those public and private personalities who stand out as making a special contribution to environmental protection issues with particular regard to the support of urban mobility We are proud to have among our most eminent Ambassadors this great Italian driver and we recognize and appreciate his professionalism and encouragement supporting this cause.
 
Alex Bamberg, Managing Director, Vectrix UK Ltd, said.  “M. Fisichella is among several other Formula One personnel who recognise the advantages and technology of the Vectrix, Eddie Jordan, Damon Hill and Adrian Sutil all ride a Vectrix maxi-scooter, The Vectrix incorporates state of the art technology as well as world class components which result in a supremely designed and engineered vehicle. It is endorsements from experts such as M. Fisichella who understand this technology that can help to drive the acceptance of zero emission transportation into the 21st century and make a positive impact on reducing the World’s carbon emissions.”


Key Features of the Vectrix Scooter: The Vectrix Vision
 
• Zero carbon emissions 
• Fully charged range up to 68 miles 
• Top speed of 62 mph (100 km/h)
• Acceleration 0-50 in 6.8 seconds
• As responsive as a 400cc scooter but with a
125cc classification, making the bike
accessible to anyone with a provisional licence
who has completed CBT training.
• Multi-function throttle controls a slow-speed
reverse for greater manoeuvrability and easy
parking
• The onboard charger recharges the scooter in
just over two hours from a standard 110/220V
(3 pin) power socket.
• Low noise for reduced sound pollution 
• Estimated battery life of 10 years (based on
5,000 miles per year)
• DAaRT™ system – Twist back the throttle for
instant acceleration, and twist it forward to slow
down smoothly and safely, in addition to the
front and back Brembo disc brakes. 


The Vectrix Vision
  
The Vectrix maxi-scooter is a pioneering
solution to the chronic problems of vehicle
emissions, urban congestion and high fuel
costs.  Vectrix is the first company to design,
develop, assemble and sell high performance,
zero emission, two-wheel electric vehicles. 
Incorporating several leading-edge patented
technologies, the Vectrix has the lowest
environmental impact of any comparable
vehicle, car or motorcycle, according to the
European Union’s Cleaner Drive rating.
 
Founded in 1996, the Company is
headquartered in Middletown, Rhode Island
and has a modern production facility in
Wroclaw, Poland, where its vehicles are
assembled, and an engineering and test facility
in New Bedford, Massachusetts.  
 
The maxi-scooter is just the start.  Its unique
engineering platform and research team will
allow Vectrix to develop a broad product range
to respond to growing consumer and corporate
demand for carbon neutral vehicles and the
urgent need to de-carbonise road transport
worldwide.
 
For more information contact: 
Susan Finn, Vectrix (UK) Ltd - Tel: 44 (0)1962 777600  E-mail: marketing@vectrix.co.uk
Sabine Raabe, Biscuit PR – Tel:  44 (0)7768-230229  E-mail: sabine@biscuit-pr.co.uk




Updated September 29, 2008

]]> http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_83 http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_83 Mon, 29 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT Stuff Live demonstrates Vectrix-i Bike
Click HERE to view the full pdf.


Updated September 29, 2008

]]> http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_84 http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_84 Mon, 29 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT The MAXI-Scooter Electric VECTRIX protagonist quiet and clean of the SUPERBIKE Paddock of Vallelunga During the Roman stage of the Superbike Championship which took place at Vallelunga Sunday 21 September, motorcycling enthusiasts were given the opportunity to try and admire the extraordinary performance of the Maxi-Scooter Electric VECTRIX.
VECTRIX, always close to the sport of motorcycling and in particular, wanted to make available to the organizers of the event its 2 vehicles to be used for movements in the paddock of drivers and operators.

VECTRIX with its Zero Emissions Vehicles, participates actively in the reduction of environmental pollution. Just think that in a fleet of only 100 electric scooter replacing as many petrol vehicles of the same segment, there is a reduction of estimated emissions of more than 85,000 kilograms of C02 into the atmosphere and 50,000 litres of gasoline consumption in less.

 

The MAXI-Scooter Electric VECTRIX is a clean solution for urban mobility. Able to reach 100 km/h, with acceleration from 0 to 50 km/h in 3.6 seconds, of between 56 and 88 km depending on the system drive, a charging time of just 2 hours and 30 minutes (80%) and great handling, due to the aluminium frame and low centre of gravity, the MAXI-Scooter VECTRIX completely redefines the performance of two-wheeled vehicles.

Updated September 25, 2008

]]> http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_75 http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_75 Thu, 25 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT Alquiler de motos eléctricas Madrid Hertz ofrecerá motos eléctricas Vectrix en Madrid

"Cero emisiones, cero ruidos y cero estrés". Éste es el objetivo de Hertz, que ha presentado esta mañana en Madrid su nueva iniciativa: alquilar motos eléctricas. Marta García Calderón Hertz ha desarrollado un nuevo plan para promover la protección medioambiental: la compañía alquilará motos eléctricas Vectrix en las estaciones madrileñas de Chamartín y Atocha a partir de la semana que viene. Esta acción pretende ayudar a disminuir la contaminación medioambiental y acústica y mejorar la agilidad de los usuarios. Las motos se entregarán con la carga al 100 por ciento, y estarán disponibles cinco unidades en cada estación a partir de la semana que viene. Los únicos requisitos para poder alquilar son tener carné (A1 o B con más de tres años) y más de 25 años. El precio es de 15 euros para 3 horas, 20 euros 6 horas, 25 para 9 horas y 30 euros el día entero, IVA incluido. Como han comentado los representantes de Hertz, esta iniciativa no sólo está dirigida a particulares, sino también a empresas con alto grado de movilidad, como por ejemplo, las de mensajería.

Updated September 16, 2008

]]> http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_66 http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_66 Tue, 16 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT Roma 16 Settembre 2008, Settimana Europea della Mobilità Sostenibile, il Pilota di F1 Giancarlo Fisichella , riceve da Vectrix l'attestato di "Ambasciatore dell' Elettrico". In occasione delle celebrazioni della Settimana Europea della Mobilità Sostenibile, che si stanno svolgendo nella settimana dal 15 al 25 di Settembre i  tutte le principali Capitali  Europee ,  Vectrix  continua la sua attività ed impegno a sostegno della diffusione dei veicoli a Zero Emissioni e della salvaguardia ambientale.

Nella magnifica cornice della di Villa Borghese, la Vectrix ha consegnato al Campione di Formula Uno, Giancarlo Fisichella l’attestato di “ Ambasciatore dell’Elettrico” " a conferma dell'attenzione dimostrata verso le tematiche ambientali  e come stimolo a continuare a farsi portavoce di azioni mirate ad una mobilità più sostenibile.

Ospiti della prestigiosa terrazza di Casina Valadier, l’evento ha visto la partecipazione di amici, giornalisti e simpatizzanti dell’elettrico che hanno avuto modo di  conoscere le straordinarie prestazioni del Maxi Scooter Vectrix, il cui uso di un esemplare è stato messo a disposizione  del pilota.

 "Assegniamo questo riconoscimento" ha dichiarato Giovanni Deleo, Managing Director Marketing e Comunicazione Vectrix Europe" a quelle personalità pubbliche e private che si distinguono per la loro particolare attenzione alle tematiche di salvaguardia ambientale con particolare riguardo al sostegno del settore della mobilità. Tra coloro i quali si sono avvicinati con crescente attenzione al mondo Vectrix e ne hanno sostenuto le finalità , ci piace ricordare tra l’altro, il Senatore Americano John Kerry, il giornalista Jay Leno, l’attore Leonardo Di Caprio, il Console Generale degli Stati Uniti di Milano, il Presidente della Regione Lombardia  e molti altre personalità pubbliche e private  ”

"Siamo orgogliosi di annoverare tra i nostri più' illustri AMBASCIATORI questo grande pilota Italiano" ha continuato l' ing. Giuseppe De Giovanni General Manager Vectrix Europe "al quale va tutto il nostro riconoscimento e apprezzamento per la sua professionalità e  l'incoraggiamento a sostenere questa causa. Lo sviluppo dell’utilizzo  dei veicoli elettrici e' una delle principali missioni della nostra Azienda basti pensare che su una flotta circolante di soli 100 scooter elettrici sostituiti ad altrettanti veicoli a benzina di pari segmento, vi e' una diminuzione di emissioni stimata di oltre 85.000 chilogrammi di C02 nell'atmosfera e 50.000 litri di consumo di benzina in meno.

 “Sono grato a Vectrix  di ricevere questo riconoscimento” ha commentato FISICO, “ma soprattutto per la possibilità che mi viene data di utilizzare uno di questi straordinari veicoli, per gli spostamenti  durante i miei soggiorni a Roma. Muovermi in  Città in sicurezza, senza inquinare ed in silenzio, e una straordinaria sensazione che da anche a me l’opportunità di contribuire, in qualche misura, alla riduzione delle emissioni nocive nell’atmosfera, di cui tutti siamo responsabili.

Il MAXI-Scooter Elettrico Vectrix è la soluzione pulita alla mobilità urbana. In grado di raggiungere i 100 km/h, con un’accelerazione da 0 a 50 km/h in 3,6 secondi, un’autonomia tra i 56 e gli 88 km in funzione del regime di guida, un tempo di ricarica di sole 2 ore e 30 minuti (80%) ed una grande maneggevolezza, dovuta al telaio in alluminio e al baricentro basso, il MAXI-Scooter Vectrix ridefinisce completamente le prestazioni dei veicoli a due ruote elettrici.

 www.vectrix.com                            press@vectrixeurope.com                     

T.: 0039 06 45481567

 

info 800257257

Updated September 16, 2008

]]> http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_73 http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_73 Tue, 16 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT Yellow fellow - AA Patrol The days of the AA patrolman saluting as you passed are long gone, or are they?
Adam Bolton discovers the knights of the road are alive and well and working in
our capital...

Though the mean streets of London may have got slightly quieter since the introduction
of the infamous congestion charge in 2003, it certainly doesn’t feel like it if you’ve
shelled out eight quid for the pleasure of sitting in a traffic jam on Park Lane that’s going
nowhere quickly. So it follows that breaking down in the capital can only be an even
more stressful event that no motorist would wish upon their worst enemy, though
statistics show that nowadays the average motorist will break down around once every
three years.
 
It seems odd then that in the mid-1990s, AA patrolmen on solo motorcycles quietly
disappeared from the capital’s roads due to operational reasons. Though the Honda Pan
Europeans were heavy and unwieldy, you would have thought they would still have had
an advantage in town traffic, but it seems not, and they went. Surprisingly, only now has
the AA looked again at the viability of using two-wheelers as patrol vehicles, and a trial
in the capital has been in progress to assess their impact on response times.

“.
 
“We already had a contract to fix the Vectrix scooters, so we decided to try them out,
along with the other bikes. We were given two bikes, and some top boxes, and with
support from the managers, left to get on with it,” explains Pepe. “At first we were
recharging in public car parks, but now a deal with Avis lets us use various central
locations, so we can charge up all over the place.”
 
Truth is, Pepe needs two electric scooters, one to ride while another is on charge, and at
about £6000 per scooter, it’s quite a financial investment for the AA. On the other hand,
there’s no congestion charge, no road tax and a miniscule recharge cost, and absolutely
zero emissions, which can only be good things. I’ll have to ride it some miles before I’m
convinced it’s not just some revamped Sinclair C5 or crazy boffin inventor’s gimmick.
Pull to go, push to stop,” shouts Pepe after me as I point the feet-forward scooter round the
block on a practice run. Pepe Mongiovi is an experienced AA patrolman, and like me is riding a fully kitted out AA patrol Vectrix electric scooter, one of the bikes chosen by the AA to use in the trial. Only he’s used to it, and I’m not, and I’m finding the complete lack of petrol combustion noise as I twist the
throttle a little disturbing to say the least.
 
After a few trips round the block I’m feeling more confident, and the nostalgic Express Dairy milk float
whine of this radical scooter is putting a smile on my face. I’ve never had to unplug any of
my bikes from a wall socket before riding off. “Only 40p for a full charge,” notes Pepe, “so they’re pretty cheap to run.” The Vectrix electric scooters, along with Honda Silver Wings and a couple of Deauville 650s, are the AA liveried two- wheelers of choice for this trial. Pepe has done 10 years on
vans, but a keen biker himself, along with his colleague Stuart Topp, he was asked by his managers if he’d like to spearhead the trial in town, and he jumped at the chance.

Updated September 15, 2008

]]> http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_55 http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_55 Mon, 15 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT Hertz elige Madrid como operación pionera de alquiler de motos eléctricas Madrid, 12 sep (EFECOM).- Hertz-España ha elegido Madrid como punto de partida de una iniciativa pionera en Europa de alquiler de motocicletas eléctricas. Esta novedad ha sido presentada hoy y el plan de la compañía con este nuevo producto es fijar los puntos de alquiler en las estaciones de Atocha y de Chamartín, para facilitar las gestiones en el abigarrado tráfico madrileño de un viajero que se desplaza en tren a hacer distintas gestiones en un corto periodo de tiempo.

Beningno Santiño, director de Pruebas de Hertz-España, dijo que esta oferta, concebida bajo el criterio de "movilidad eléctrica, surge a raíz de la buena respuesta que ha tenido el programa de alquiler de coches de bajas emisiones y será el antecedente de la extensión al negocio de los coches eléctricos en el futuro.

La iniciativa arranca con diez motocicletas eléctricas de la firma estadounidense Vectrix, que se
ofrecerán con una tarifa de 13 euros en periodos de tres horas y que serán siempre entregadas al
cliente con la totalidad de carga. Gonzalo Alonso, director general de Going Green, la distribuidora en exclusiva para estas motocicletas en España, destacó la facilidad de carga de estos motocicletas mediante un enchufe con toma de tierra a la red de 220 voltios.

Alonso dijo a Efe que los tiempos de carga de las baterías eléctricas de estas motocicletas son de
dos horas para el 80% y de tres horas para el 100%. Estas baterías permiten 1.700 cargas que, por los 80 kilómetros de promedio de autonomía que permite cada carga, supone una vida útil de cada motocicleta de 140.000 kilómetros, aunque a plena carga esta autonomía puede extenderse a unos cien kilómetros entre cada alimentación. El importador señaló que en un recorrido permanente por Madrid cada carga completa concede una autonomía en tiempo equivalente a cinco horas.

La potencia homologada de estas motocicletas respecto a las de combustibles tradicionales se
establece entre 400 y 500 centímetros cúbicos y pueden alcanzar una velocidad de 110 kms/h. El concejal de seguridad del Ayuntamiento de Madrid, Pedro Calvo, que presidió el acto de presentación, alabó esta iniciativa por lo que puede contribuir a la limpieza ambiental de la capital y recordó que es una buena herramienta para restar contaminación a la generada diariamente por el millón de movimientos que se contabilizan en Madrid.
 
No obstante, Calvo puntualizó que extender este tipo de motocicletas a la totalidad de servicios
municipales choca todavía con unas autonomías limitadas, pues los recorridos diarios de la policía local en motocicletas superan las homologaciones actuales de estos vehículos. Del alquiler de estas motocicletas eléctricas podrán beneficiarse los ciudadanos mayores de 25 años poseedores de carné de conducir tipo A o tipo B. Los responsables de Hertz-España indicaron que dejar fuera de estos servicios a un tramo de

Updated September 12, 2008

]]> http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_68 http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_68 Fri, 12 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT Hertz pone en marcha un servicio de alquiler de motos eléctricas en Madrid De los coches y furgonetas a las motos de alquiler. Hertz-España ha elegido Madrid como punto de partida de una iniciativa pionera en Europa de alquiler de motos eléctricas. Esta novedad fue
presentada este viernes y el plan es fijar los puntos de alquiler en las estaciones de Atocha y de
Chamartín.

L D (EFE) Beningno Santiño, director de Pruebas de Hertz-España, dijo que esta oferta, concebida bajo el criterio de "movilidad eléctrica, surge a raíz de la buena respuesta que ha tenido el programa de alquiler de coches de bajas emisiones y será el antecedente de la extensión al negocio de los coches eléctricos en el futuro. La iniciativa arranca con diez motocicletas eléctricas de la firma estadounidense Vectrix, que se ofrecerán con una tarifa de 13 euros en periodos de tres horas y que serán siempre entregadas al cliente con la totalidad de carga.
 
Gonzalo Alonso, director general de Going Green, la distribuidora en exclusiva para estas motocicletas en España, destacó la facilidad de carga de estos motocicletas mediante un enchufe con toma de tierra a la red de 220 voltios. Alonso dijo a Efe que los tiempos de carga de las baterías eléctricas de estas motocicletas son de dos horas para el 80% y de tres horas para el 100%. Estas baterías permiten 1.700 cargas que, por los 80 kilómetros de promedio de autonomía que permite cada carga, supone una vida útil de cada motocicleta de 140.000 kilómetros, aunque a plena carga esta autonomía puede extenderse a unos cien kilómetros entre cada alimentación.
 
El importador señaló que en un recorrido permanente por Madrid cada carga completa concede una autonomía en tiempo equivalente a cinco horas. La potencia homologada de estas motocicletas respecto a las de combustibles tradicionales se establece entre 400 y 500 centímetros cúbicos y pueden alcanzar una velocidad de 110 kms/h.
 
El concejal de seguridad del Ayuntamiento de Madrid, Pedro Calvo, que presidió el acto depresentación, alabó esta iniciativa por lo que puede contribuir a la limpieza ambiental de la capital y recordó que es una buena herramienta para restar contaminación a la generada diariamente por el millón de movimientos que se contabilizan en Madrid. No obstante, Calvo puntualizó que extender este tipo de motocicletas a la totalidad de servicios municipales choca todavía con unas autonomías limitadas, pues los recorridos diarios de la policía local en motocicletas superan las homologaciones actuales de estos vehículos.
 
Del alquiler de estas motocicletas eléctricas podrán beneficiarse los ciudadanos mayores de 25 años poseedores de carné de conducir tipo A o tipo B. Los responsables de Hertz- España indicaron que dejar fuera de estos servicios a un tramo de edad entre 18 y 24 años obedece a estudios de mercado, que señalan las preferencias de este tramo por otro tipo de moto, además de razones económicas, como los precios de los seguros, y estadísticas, por la alta accidentalidad de este usuario juvenil.
 
Gonzalo Alonso explicó también que este producto ya ha sido comprado por 25 ayuntamientos españoles para servicios, sobre todo, de policía local, y añadió que unas 80 motos eléctricas ya circulan por España y que para el año que viene contabilizan 200 pedidos.
 
Going Green vende cada una de estas motocicletas a 5.990 euros, a los que se añade una tarifa mensual de 80 euros por los servicios anexos de reparación de averías, seguros... y que esta compañía establece como de obligada adquisición. 
 

Updated September 12, 2008

]]> http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_67 http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_67 Fri, 12 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT Madrid cuenta ya con una flota de diez motos eléctricas para su alquiler que contribuyen a una movilidad sostenible La empresa de alquiler de automóviles Hertz ha fletado en la ciudad de Madrid diez motos scooter eléctricas para contribuir a la movilidad sostenible, convirtiéndose así en la única multinacional que alquila este tipo de vehículos en España.   
 
Con una velocidad máxima de 100 kilómetros a la hora y una cilindrada de 125 centímetros cúbicos, esta moto se convierte en una alternativa al transporte convencional que contribuye a la no emisión de gases ni ruidos y que, a la par que ecológico, se convierte en un medio de transporte rápido y
sencillo.

En cuanto a la autonomía del vehículo, las unidades adquiridas por Hertz aguantan un recorrido de 100 kilómetros y, una vez que se descarga la batería de níquel, tan sólo hay que recargarla en cualquier enchufe normal durante dos horas para llegar al 80 por ciento de la carga.  Uno de los principales beneficios de este servicio es el ahorro, tanto de tiempo como de dinero, ya que el gasto de recarga eléctrica es mínimo, 40 céntimos de euro. Teniendo en cuenta que estas motos disponen de una
autonomía de 100 kilómetros y que a fecha de hoy los cuatro litros de gasolina que se consumen para recorrer esa distancia suponen cinco euros, el ahorro económico se hace notable. 

Según los responsables de la compañía, el gasto eléctrico es menor que lo que consume un aire acondicionado, por lo que en un mes, la factura de la luz sólo se incrementaría en nueve euros. La carga de las mismas se puede efectuar en las oficinas de Hertz de las estaciones de Atocha y
Chamartín, únicos puntos donde está disponible el alquiler de los vehículos.  Para acceder a este servicio es necesario poseer el carné de conducir tipo B con tres años de experiencia y ser mayor de 25 años. A la hora de hablar de precios y período de alquiler, la empresa oferta varias tarifas. Así, para un alquiler de tres horas, la tarifa sería de 14 euros; seis horas, 20 euros; nueve horas, 25 euros; y un día completo serían 30 euros. El tiempo máximo de alquiler son 24 horas, pudiendo prorrogarse en el momento de la devolución del vehículo. 

SEMANA DE LA MOVILIDAD
 
Con motivo de la Semana Europea de la Movilidad en Madrid, entre el 16 y el 22 de este mes las oficinas de la compañía situadas en las estaciones de Atocha y Chamartín ofrecerán el alquiler, totalmente gratuito, de scooters eléctricos para fomentar así el uso racional de los medios de transporte.  La Comunidad de Madrid también subvencionará, durante este mes de
septiembre la adquisición de estos vehículos no contaminantes con un total
de 750 euros sobre el precio total del mismo, que actualmente ronda los 6.000 euros.
 
El director de Nuevas Iniciativas de Hertz, Benigno Santiño, confió en que "este sea sólo el primer paso y que se traslade la modalidad de vehículo de alquiler eléctrico a coches y furgonetas de reparto". En cuanto al público objetivo al que va dirigido el producto, Santiño afirmó que se trata de "personas que tienen un marcado perfil de conservación del medioambiente". Por su parte, el concejal de Seguridad y Movilidad del Ayuntamiento de Madrid, que también participó en la presentación, Pedro Calvo, añadió,
además, que se tratan de personas "cosmopolitas, con una cultura urbana responsable y madura".

 Calvo se refirió a que "con este producto se ofrece una alternativa a la movilidad en la corona metropolitana con el centro de la ciudad", unos desplazamientos que "generan más de un millón de vehículos en movimiento al día".  El edil madrileño aseguró que "la moto goza de grandes beneficios en la ciudad de Madrid, ya que están exentas de pagar los parquímetros, pueden utilizar los carriles bus y se ha hecho un gran esfuerzo por acondicionar el pavimento y eliminar los guardarraíles que sean de la competencia del Consistorio, todo ello para concienciar de que la moto es una alternativa al coche porque además, contribuye a descongestionar el tráfico urbano". 

El responsable del Instituto para la Diversificación y Ahorro de la Energía (IDAE), Luis Pla, subrayó que "en el capítulo del transporte, un pilar básico es la renovación de la flota de vehículos que utilizan combustibles alternativos". En este sentido, destacó que "dentro de esta iniciativa se incluyen ayudas para la compra de vehículos eléctricos, híbridos o que se muevan a través del uso de hidrógeno".  CERO RUIDOS  Este tipo de alquiler es sumamente respetuoso con el medioambiente, puesto que al funcionar sin combustibles no emite CO2 a la atmósfera y su funcionamiento es tan silencioso que la contaminación acústica queda reducida a cero. 

Para Calvo, la aplicación de las nuevas tecnologías en este producto pone de
manifiesto "el espíritu emprendedor de la compañía", ya que, además de la fluidez en la movilidad, los vehículos eléctricos contribuyen a evitar "las más de 80.000 muertes al año que cifra la Organización Mundial de la Salud (OMS) por contaminación de partículas suspendidas en el aire".  Por lo tanto, esta nueva forma de desplazamiento urbanos, además de ser una alternativa económica, se convierte en una buena opción para la conservación de la atmósfera y la reducción de la contaminación acústica en
la ciudad. 


Updated September 12, 2008

]]> http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_65 http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_65 Fri, 12 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT ה"חוט המאריך" – לא הבדיחה של הגשש
כבר כמה חודשים שנמצא בישראל קטנוע מנהלים חדש ומיוחד – חשמלי. המתקדם בעולם: מאה קמ"ש, ועשרות קילומטרים – בלי זיהום, כמעט בחינם. אבל מה שטוב לארצות הברית ואירופה – לא טוב לישראל. ה"חוט המאריך" – לא הבדיחה של הגשש, הסיפור האמיתי
http://www.keshet-tv.com/VideoPage.aspx?MediaID=44823&SourceID=23

Updated September 12, 2008

]]> http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_50 http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_50 Fri, 12 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT Penn State Police Go Green!
Click here for the original article

Updated September 11, 2008

]]> http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_69 http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_69 Thu, 11 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT New Australian PDF Brochure View Full PDF



Click on the lick to view the new Austrailian PDF Brochure.

Updated September 10, 2008

]]> http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_64 http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_64 Wed, 10 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT All-Electric Vectrix Dealer Network Grows Fast Across the Country Consumer demand for electric alternatives drives nearly 10-fold increase in dealers of world’s first highway-legal, all-electric two wheel vehicles

Middletown, R.I.—July XX, 2008—Vectrix (www.vectrix.com) Corporation today announced that it has added 45 new dealers in the past 100 days, reaching 50 total dealers and becoming the largest dealer distribution network for electric vehicles in the U.S. consumer market today.
“The success of the Vectrix network shows consumers are ready for new commuting alternatives,” said Mike Boyle, Vectrix CEO. “In many ways this has been the perfect storm—the transformation of the two-wheel industry, the rise in gas prices, the economic pressures, and the increased awareness in the environment.”

In response to rising gas prices, the two-wheel industry is up 65% percent (Motorcycle Industry Council) his year and is the fastest growing segment of the transportation industry. The all-electric Vectrix is extremely economical, operating at just pennies per mile and the equivalent of 357 miles per gallon, compared with 14 mpg for a leading SUV and 46 mpg for a leading hybrid car. Leading gas-powered motorcycles and scooters ranged from 52 to 87 mpg.

An increased focus on environmental issues also has consumers looking to lower their carbon footprint. Tests conducted by the Southwest Research Institute in San Antonio, Tex., on behalf of Vectrix Corporation reveal that two-wheel electric vehicles are three times cleaner than gas-powered motorcycles and scooters and 10 times cleaner than gas-powered cars:

  • Based on 15,000 miles a year, an average car emits 3.17 tons of CO2 a year, a motorcycle emits an average of 0.9 tons, and a Vectrix just 0.33 tons.
  • By replacing one car 70 percent of the time with a Vectrix, a household can reduce CO2 emission by five tons a year.   
  •     Engineered to provide an eco-friendly, powerful alternative for commuting and recreational needs, Vectrix:
  • Reaches top speed of 62 mph and offers acceleration from 0-50 mph in 6.8 seconds.
  • Has an average range of 30-55 miles on a single charge.
  • Offers minimal maintenance, simple operation and low noise.
  • Weighs 515 pounds, has a 60-inch wheelbase and 30-inch seat height, seats two comfortably and is highway legal.

Compared to traditional gasoline scooters that can produce up to 10 times the pollution of an average automobile, Vectrix is totally emissions free. It is virtually silent and highly efficient—a patented regenerative braking system redirects energy back into the Vectrix battery pack, which helps to extend its range by up to 12 percent.

Vectrix is more cost effective than gas or hybrid vehicles, since electricity is now one-tenth the cost of gasoline. The Vectrix Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) battery pack has an estimated life of up to 10 years based on 5,000 miles per year. An onboard charger plugs in to any standard 110/220V electrical outlet to charge the battery pack in just 2-3 hours.

Sophisticated design efficiencies of the smart, sleek Vectrix include a high-efficiency gearbox and drive train, aluminum construction for weight reduction and aerodynamic styling to reduce drag. A low center of gravity, stiff frame and even weight distribution provide superior handling.

For consumers with urban commutes, Vectrix is both convenient and cost effective. The driver can stop and go with one hand by simply twisting the throttle back for acceleration and twisting it forward to slow down smoothly and safely. Fast acceleration and handling make it easy and safe to zip in and out of traffic.
   
About Vectrix Corporation
Vectrix Corporation was formed in 1996 to develop and commercialize zero emission vehicle platform technologies focused on two-wheel applications. The single focus of Vectrix has been to provide clean, efficient, reliable and affordable urban transportation. Vectrix two-wheel zero emission vehicles currently are being marketed to consumers and government fleets. Vectrix Corporation has headquarters in Middletown, R.I., engineering and test facilities in New Bedford, Mass., sales offices in London, UK and Rome, Italy, and production facilities in Wroclaw, Poland.


Updated September 10, 2008

]]> http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_49 http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_49 Wed, 10 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT All-Electric Vectrix Leads Race for the Cure New England-based Vectrix Corporation partners with DMSE Sports to help runners breath easier at races across the country

Vectrix now available at Riverside Motorsports—its first dealer in the Boston area

Boston, Mass.—Sept. 7, 2008—Vectrix (www.vectrix.com), the world’s first highway legal, all-electric two-wheel vehicle, will lead the way for runners in the Sixteenth Annual Susan G. Komen Massachusetts Race for the Cure (www.komenmassrace.org). The 5K run and fitness walk raises fund for breast cancer care and research, while supporting and remembering victims of the disease.

With no gas, no oil—and no emissions--Vectrix is setting the pace for the fundraising 5K at UMass Boston as part of a partnership with DMSE Sports, Inc. (www.dmsesports.com). The partnership will bring the zero-emission vehicle to the front of dozens of races throughout New England and the country. DMSE had already relied on Vectrix during the 2008 Boston Marathon and the 2008 U.S. Olympic Team Trials for the Women’s Marathon.

DMSE, founded by veteran marathon runner and motivational speaker David McGillivray, plans and manages large participatory sporting events such as the Race for the Cure and the Boston Marathon.  The organization will be using its Vectrix vehicle to lead several other races throughout New England this fall.

“As a clean, zero emission vehicle, Vectrix is a great match for DMSE sporting events and we’re excited to partner with them on events throughout the year,” said McGillivray. “Vectrix will eliminate any adverse effects that gasoline powered vehicles could have on runners.”
Vectrix Corporation, which is headquartered in Middletown, R.I., with engineering and test facilities in New Bedford, Mass., has expanded its Boston presence by adding Riverside Motorsports in Somerville, Mass., as its first Boston-area dealer.
 
Engineered to provide an eco-friendly, powerful alternative for commuting and recreational needs, Vectrix:
• Reaches top speed of 62 mph and offers acceleration from 0-50 mph in 6.8 seconds.
• Has an average range of 30-55 miles on a single charge.
• Runs at the equivalent of 357 miles per gallon, about a penny a mile, compared with 14 mpg for a leading SUV and 46 mpg for a leading hybrid car. Leading Gas-powered scooters and motorcycles range from 52-87 mpg.
• Offers minimal maintenance, simple operation and low noise.
• Weighs 515 pounds, has a 60-inch wheelbase and 30-inch seat height, seats two comfortably and is highway legal.

Compared to traditional gasoline scooters that can produce up to 10 times the pollution of an average automobile, Vectrix is totally emissions free. It is virtually silent and highly efficient—a patented regenerative braking system redirects energy back into the Vectrix battery pack, which helps to extend its range by up to 12 percent.

Vectrix is more cost effective than gas or hybrid vehicles, since electricity is now one-tenth the cost of gasoline. The Vectrix Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) battery pack has an estimated life of up to 50,000 miles. An onboard charger plugs in to any standard 110/220V electrical outlet to charge the battery pack in just 2-3 hours.

Sophisticated design efficiencies of the smart, sleek Vectrix include a high-efficiency gearbox and drive train, aluminum construction for weight reduction and aerodynamic styling to reduce drag. A low center of gravity, stiff frame and even weight distribution provide superior handling.
In the Boston area, Vectrix is available at Riverside Motorsports, 2 Union Square in Somerville, Mass., 617-628-6400.

About Vectrix Corporation
Vectrix Corporation was formed in 1996 to develop and commercialize zero emission vehicle platform technologies focused on two-wheel applications. The single focus of Vectrix has been to provide clean, efficient, reliable and affordable urban transportation. Vectrix two-wheel zero emission vehicles currently are being marketed to consumers and government fleets. Vectrix Corporation has headquarters in Middletown, R.I., engineering and test facilities in New Bedford, Mass., sales offices in London, UK and Rome, Italy, and production facilities in Wroclaw, Poland.

-END-

Updated September 9, 2008

]]> http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_48 http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_48 Tue, 09 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT La Concejalía de Medio Ambiente de Cantabria realiza la mayor entrega de motos eléctricas de Europa a sus Ayuntamientos De acuerdo con Europa Press “Las motos eléctricas contribuirán a hacer las ciudades "más sostenibles" y se ha decidido comenzar a implantarlas en las policías locales porque "generan credibilidad", de cara a la extensión de estos vehículos entre la población.    La próxima semana se repartirán más de diez unidades entre los medios de comunicación y también se entregarán próximamente en empresas de reparto --incluido Correos--, comida a domicilio y recambios, con el objetivo de dar "visibilidad" a este nuevo medio de transporte.    Además, Martín anunció que el objetivo es que los ciudadanos tengan acceso a este tipo de vehículos, para lo que el Ejecutivo publicará en 2009 órdenes de subvenciones.    En total, el Gobierno ha invertido un millón de euros en más de un centenar de motos que se entregarán a los colectivos citados. El Gobierno paga un renting de seis meses y luego se abre la opción de compra a los consistorios, en base a un precio negociado de recompra que es menor de la mitad del precio de venta habitual.”
El Concejal de Medio Ambiente Francisco Martín resaltó que “todo son ventajas y espero que la gente se acostumbre a ver estas motos y coja confianza en ellas”.
Los Ayuntamientos que recibieron estas motos de Vectrix son Santander, con siete unidades y los ayuntamientos de Arnuero, Cabezón de la Sal, Camargo, Laredo, Limpias, Marina de Cudeyo, Medio Cudeyo, Miengo, Noja, Reinosa, Reocín, San Vicente de la Barquera, Santoña, Torrelavega y Valdeolea se distribuyeron los restantes vehículos.
Otra de las acciones complementares que los ayuntamientos están preparando es la colocación de postes de recarga eléctrica, que se localizarán en los aparcamientos de motos ya que es una realidad no solamente para los Ayuntamientos como también para el ciudadano.
Las scooters Vectrix tienen una autonomía promedio de 80 kilómetros, dependiendo de la forma de conducir se puede incluso llegar a tener una autonomía superior y se recargan enchufando la batería a la red convencional, lo que supone un coste inferior a cincuenta céntimos de euro. Otros puntos ventajosos que tienen es que no producen emisiones atmosféricas y son muy silenciosas. Su freno eléctrico devuelve la energía a la batería, con lo que la autonomía se incrementa sensiblemente.


Updated September 4, 2008

]]> http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_35 http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_35 Thu, 04 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT A favore della mobilità sostenibile TBTV e Vectrix lanciano un nuovo contest creativo Sensibilizzare il popolo della rete nei confronti della mobilità sostenibile, è questo l’obiettivo del concorso “Io ce l’ho elettrico” lanciato in questi giorni da TBTV e Vectrix. Il primo MAXI-Scooter Elettrico ad alte prestazioni e a basso impatto ambientale ha scelto di mettere alla prova la community della nota piattaforma per la realizzazione di brevi video contraddistinti da un approccio energico alla vita e soprattutto da un marcato spirito ecocompatibile.
Alla community viene chiesto di esemplificare attraverso il mezzo video e con l’originalità di cui si è finora dimostrata capace, i comportamenti più corretti nei confronti dell’ambiente accompagnandoli dallo slogan “Io ce l’ho elettrico”: il contagioso grido di chi ogni giorno porta avanti la sua personale battaglia ecologica. All’autore del miglior video partecipante andrà un casco jet Vemar, mentre i primi 400 video caricati sulla piattaforma www.tbtv.it saranno premiati con altrettanti gadget targati Vectrix (T-shirt, cappellini, polsini, pins).
Il contest rientra nelle azioni previste dalla campagna di comunicazione con cui Vectrix intende rivolgersi in particolare agli utenti della rete, campagna che comprende anche la sponsorizzazione da parte del primo veicolo elettrico a due ruote ad alte prestazioni di una prima slot di puntate di Telescooter - che per l’occasione diventa Telectrix - il nuovo VlogShow in onda da qualche giorno su YKS, canale di cui TBTV è editore.

Vectrix - Il MAXI-Scooter Elettrico a zero emissioni, lancia la sfida alla mobilità Urbana ed al caro benzina.  In grado di raggiungere i 100km/h , con una accelerazione da 0 a 50 km/h in soli 3,6 secondi, un'autonomia variabile tra i 56 e gli 88 Km in funzione del regime di guida, un tempo di ricarica di sole 2 ore e 30 minuti ed una grande maneggevolezza, il MAXI-Scooter Elettrico Vectrix ridefinisce completamente le prestazioni dei veicoli elettrici a due ruote.

Per informazioni:
TBTV - Ufficio Stampa
Daniela Fantozzi
tel. 06.97848159 - cell. 392.9847304
danielafantozzi@theblogtv.it

VECTRIX – Ufficio Stampa
Giovanni Deleo
Tel. 06 45481576 – cell. 334 65844142
press@vectrixeurope.com
www.vectrixeurope.com


Updated September 4, 2008

]]> http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_43 http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_43 Thu, 04 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT El “PLAN BIOBIKE” “La sostenibilidad como motor”, incluido en el Programa “Cero CO2”, es una iniciativa de movilidad sostenible cuyo objetivo es reducir las emisiones de gases de efecto invernadero derivadas del crecimiento del transporte por carretera, especialmente en los núcleos urbanos. La Consejería de Medio Ambiente destinará un millón de euros al desarrollo de este proyecto.   Esta actuación, pionera en la promoción en la comunidad autónoma de Cantabria de un modelo de movilidad sostenible basado en el uso de vehículos eléctricos, pretende, de esta manera, fomentar un cambio cultural entre los ciudadanos, comenzando por los sectores institucional y profesional, con el objetivo de facilitar la reducción de las emisiones de gases de efecto invernadero de Cantabria.    El Instituto para la Diversificación y el Ahorro de la Energía (IDAE), dependiente del Ministerio de Industria, Turismo y Comercio, el Grupo Sodercan y Genercan, la sociedad de gestión energética de Cantabria dependiente de la Consejería de Industria y Desarrollo Tecnológico, colaboran con Medio Ambiente en el desarrollo del “Plan BioBike: la sostenibilidad como motor”

Updated September 3, 2008

]]> http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_36 http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_36 Wed, 03 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT Comparatif Honda Forza 250 / Vectrix : Electrique ou thermique, faites vos comptes
 http://www.scooter-station.com/Comparatif-Honda-Forza-250-Vectrix.html

Updated September 3, 2008

]]> http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_40 http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_40 Wed, 03 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT Journée Nationale de la Moto et du Scooter : une 1ère édition sous le signe de l'Environnement ! L'Environnement sera l'un des thèmes phares de la 1ère édition de la Journée Nationale de la Moto et du Scooter qui se tiendra le 9 septembre 2008 sur le Circuit Carole, situé entre l'aéroport Charles de Gaulle et le parc expo Paris-Nord.
http://www.journee-motoscooter.fr/english.pdf

Updated September 3, 2008

]]> http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_41 http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_41 Wed, 03 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT New Italian PDF Brochure! View full PDF 

Click on the link to view the new Italian PDF Brochure.

Updated September 3, 2008

]]> http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_38 http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_38 Wed, 03 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT CitySprint Beats Former F1 World Champion CitySprint has been shortlisted for the Transport for London (TfL)
private sector ‘Capital Fleet of the Year’ award for the second year
running following its victory in the GreenFleet Capital Fuel
Challenge on Thursday 31st July.
The GreenFleet Capital Fuel Challenge, which is sponsored by
Transport for London and was started by Deputy Mayor of London
Richard Barnes, featured public and private sector fleets competing
to demonstrate who’s the cleanest and greenest in and around
London.  Each participant set off on a 24-mile trip across London
and had to stop off and register at four checkpoints across town
before finally finishing at Horse Guards Parade.  
The aim of the event was to complete the route using minimum
carbon emissions rather than in the fastest time. Based on this
criteria CitySprint beat Former F1 World Champion Damon Hill,
who was racing in an electric sports car, and all other competitors
who took part. CitySprint entered two vehicles from its environmentally friendly fleet into the challenge – a Vectrix electric motorbike and a Smith Edison electric van. CitySprint’s Vectrix bike was ranked first, and its Smith Edison van second, for completing the challenge with the least carbon emissions. However, although CitySprint came first and second, each company who participated in the challenge can only be listed in the official top five once. Therefore CitySprint has been ranked first in the top five and, along with the top five participants, is now in the running to win the coveted TfL private sector ‘Capital Fleet of the Year’ Award for demonstrating environmental fleet awareness in London.
Last year CitySprint beat off stiff competition and was crowned winner of the title after winning the 2007
GreenFleet Capital Fuel Challenge and impressing judges with details of its environmental programme and ‘green’ fleet. CitySprint is confident that major advances with its environmental programme over the last year will impress judges again and that they will be victorious for a second year running. 
As the UK’s largest privately owned SameDay Courier business CitySprint recognises that the provision of its courier services have an impact on the environment and it has worked hard to implement a
comprehensive environmental programme in order to minimise that impact.  
As part of its environmental programme CitySprint continuously looks for new vehicle options and
innovative solutions which are both environmentally friendly and commercially viable. CitySprint does not charge clients a premium for using green vehicle options and in many cases they are provided at a reduced cost. CitySprint’s environmentally friendly fleet includes pushbikes, CityTrikes (human powered vehicles), electric vehicles, Smart Cars and alternative fuel vehicles. CitySprint has also taken its environmental programme one step further by developing an external programme which offers clients the opportunity to assess and reduce their own carbon footprint.
CitySprint will attend the GreenFleet Awards at Twickenham on the 25th September and, along with the
other finalists, make a presentation live on stage to an X-Factor style panel of judges to explain why
CitySprint deserves to win the TfL award. The panel will then score each presentation, and the audience
will get a chance to vote for which entry they think should win. The Winners will be announced in the
evening, at the official GreenFleet Awards Ceremony.

Updated September 3, 2008

]]> http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_37 http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_37 Wed, 03 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT Chrysler Lobbies To Broaden Plug-In Car Tax Credit  
WASHINGTON -(Dow Jones)- Chrysler LLC is feeling left out in the cold by a new tax credit for plug-in electric cars in pending Senate legislation.
The proposed plug-in credit is part of legislation to extend a wide range of expiring tax cuts, including incentives for renewable energy and individual tax breaks like the college tuition deduction.
Chrysler is seeking a change to the bill to ensure that low-speed electric vehicles will qualify for a credit. The all- electric vehicles have a top speed of 25 miles per hour, and are geared toward use around city centers, university campuses and retirement communities.

Senate lawmakers are gearing up for a September effort to push that bill through. Chrysler and Vectrix Inc., a New Bedford, Mass. maker of electric scooters, are among companies lobbying for last-minute changes to the electric vehicle credit before the legislation is finalized, possibly as early as this month.
Tax credits have long been available for the purchase of hybrid vehicles powered by a combination of gasoline engines and electric batteries. The new tax credit aims to speed the market entry of pure electric vehicles, now being developed by General Motors Corp. (GM), Chrysler, Toyota Motor (TM), Mazda Motor Corp. (7261.TO) and others.

The next generation of those cars, which will be powered by cutting-edge lithium ion batteries, are still at least two years away from commercial availability. But Chrysler unit Global Electric Motorcars now offers lead-acid battery powered vehicles that can travel up to around 30 miles on a single charge. Also dubbed "neighborhood electric vehicles," they are marketed by Chrysler as a no- tailpipe-emissions alternative for short trips to the grocery store or the golf course. A limitation in the tax cut extender bill passed by the House, and the version now pending before the Senate, appears to exclude the so-called GEM cars, and other low-speed electric models. The bill states that the credit will not be available to any vehicle that is not a "passenger automobile" as defined by the EPA. A House Ways and Means Committee aide said lawmakers wanted the tax credit to serve as "an incentive to
produce vehicles for widespread, everyday use." That may not include vehicles that do not travel at highway speeds.

A spokesman for Rep. Lloyd Doggett, D-Tex., who authored the House version of the plug-in credit legislation, said the credit "is not needed to spur development of GEMs." Two-wheeled electric vehicles like Vectrix's "maxi-scooter" would also not be eligible for the credit under the House-
passed language. The bikes are powered by a nickel-hydride battery, comparable to battery technology used in hybrid cars now on the market, and at maximum speeds up to 62 miles per hour are highway-legal.

Vectrix has enlisted Sens. John Kerry, D-Mass., Jack Reed, D-R.I., and Sheldon Whitehouse, D-R.I., to plead its case to Senate Finance Committee Chairman Max Baucus, D-Mont., the lead author of the Senate tax bill. David Friedman, research director at the Union of Concerned Scientists Clean Vehicles program, called the lead- acid and nickel-metal hydride batteries that power the GEM cars and Vectrix scooters respectively, "yesterday's technology."
"Not a dime of taxpayer dollars should be going to yesterday's technology, it should be going to tomorrow's technology" such as lithium ion battery-powered vehicles, he said.
A Chrysler spokeswoman said the company is fully supportive of the plug-in vehicle credit, and believes it is important to spur the next generation of electric cars. But the GEM car fills a different need, she said. Chrysler and Vectrix officials said the credit would help consumers embrace electric technology now, while more cutting-edge technologies are being readied for commercial sale. Even when the lithium ion technology reaches the market, the first cars available will be out of reach for the vast majority of consumers. "Many people aren't going to be able to afford a Tesla," said Vectrix director of external affairs Colleen Quinn, in reference to the maker of the high-end electric Roadster sportscar. "The whole idea of the tax credit is to jump the chasm so that consumers can benefit now."
The plug-in provision in the Senate bill would provide a tax credit of $3,000 for the purchase of qualified plug-in cars. Chrysler and Vectrix are seeking to add a separate credit, with a base amount of $1,500, for "urban commuter vehicles," which would apply to both GEM cars and Vectrix maxi-scooters.
Passage of the credit is by no means certain this year. The broader tax bill has been hung up by a dispute between Democrats and Republicans over how much of the tax package should be "paid for" by closing tax loopholes and targeted tax increases.
Chrysler and Vectrix will have few opportunities to modify the tax credit, since Senate tax staff has signaled the bill is closed for changes that do not win votes. But if Senate leaders strike a deal on the bill, the companies may have a final shot at slipping language in.
-By Martin Vaughan, Dow Jones Newswires; 202-862-9244; martin.vaughan@ dowjones.com 
Click here to go to Dow Jones NewsPlus, a web front page of today's most important business and market news, analysis and commentary:

http:// www.djnewsplus.com/al?rnd=AvSeyy9xnxfM2x48pEC5Ew%3D%3D. You can use
this link on the day this article is published and the following day. 

Updated September 3, 2008

]]> http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_60 http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_60 Wed, 03 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT Electric motorcycle company secures location in Marin Staff Writer    Tuesday, September 2, 2008 10:49 PM PDT

With fuel prices beginning to dip from summer highs, many people are overjoyed that a gallon of gas now only costs a dollar more than it did a year ago. But for those to whom “less bad” falls short of “good,” a Rhode Island company called “Vectrix” may have an answer.
 
The manufacturer of an electric motorcycle, Vectrix recently expanded to include Marin BMW
Motorcycles in San Rafael – its only Marin County location – in what the company claims is the largest
distribution network in the United States for electric vehicles.
 
Vectrix’s invention, a $10,000, rechargeable, freeway-legal motorbike, has been selling gangbusters,
according to company spokeswoman Colleen Quinn. By focusing on electric two-wheelers, rather than
cars, the still-limited capacity of batteries is maximized, increasing the vehicle’s viability as a means of
reliable transportation.
 
“We are operating, as you know, in a period of very heightened interest in the environment, the price of
oil, as well as … two-wheeled vehicles as an alternative for the car,” said Quinn. “Numbers for scooter
sales have gone up 60 percent this year. People are looking at alternatives for their commute.”
 
Chief Technology Officer Peter Hughes said the vehicle offered a number of advantages for commuters
over conventional cars.
 
“We carry a 15-watt onboard charger. It’s ideal for interfacing with an electric utility, and … it takes about
three hours to charge a bike,” he said. “In the future, we could have timing devices associated with
charging vehicles, so if I got home and plugged it in, it wouldn’t start until 11 and I wouldn’t care because
I’m sleeping, and when I wake up my bike is charged.”
 
Hughes said the current model allowed the average commuter a round-trip.
 
“This is an urban commuting vehicle,” he said. “It’s not meant for the interstate, but the typical urban
commute, you get something like 35 miles on a charge. It depends on how you drive, the terrain, but the
average is 35 to 55 miles.”
 
The future, however, may offer more versatile vehicles, Hughes said.

“We’re going to have a product family that spreads out from the existing bike. We’ll have a large bike, like the Vectrix, that will be designed to have different performance characteristics than the current bike, for city commuting. And we’ll be introducing a smaller version, oriented towards the scooter market,” he said. “What we’ve attempted to do with our brand and marketing is seize the high ground, and what we intend to do is build on our product family.”
 
Mike Boyle, President and CEO of the company, said he believed such innovation would broaden the
appeal of the product, gaining over time a substantial share of the overall market for vehicles.
 
“If you look at our sales for the first half of our fiscal year … they’re up over 400 percent. It’s exponential
growth … and we would expect that to continue,” he said. “Our distribution is very balanced between the
United States and Europe, and if you look at our sales … I would say it’s a little more strong in the United States because of the rapid development of the U.S. distribution market.”
 
Boyle said the deal with Marin BMW was part of that distribution strategy, one he said was relatively new, like the vehicle it sold.
 
“We made a decision four or five months ago, that for us to really be successful commercializing our
product, we needed robust distribution configured worldwide. Initially, we used a flagship store concept,
opening our stores in Europe, and that was far too slow to bring commercialization to our product,” he
said. “About five months ago, we began a new strategy and we actively began (pursuing) independent
distribution (partnerships).”
 
According to Boyle, the partnerships with car, motorcycle and recreational vehicle vendors allow the
businesses to increase their draw to vehicle shoppers, while helping Vectrix to make use of pre-existing,
well known sellers to penetrate the market faster.
 
“We’ve very focused on continuing to build that distribution (network), and we’re hoping by the end of the year (to have) 175 (United States and European locations), and over the next two (years), we’re hoping to hit a critical mass of about 400,” he said. “That positions us differently than other electric vehicle (manufacturers)  on the market. We’re using traditional power-sports industry and automotive-dealer distribution networks.”
 
Boyle said the Marin BMW arrangement was an example of that dynamic, and underscored the rarity of
similar partnerships.
 
“We’re extremely proud of the fact that from a BMW perspective, we’re the only product approved to
coexist … It’s the first time in their existence that they’ve allowed another product to (cohabitate). Harley
Davidson has also traditionally been very restrictive, and we’re now at multiple Harley stores in the
United States, and with Honda, we’re a key element in their multi-brand distribution,” he said.
 
Contact Paul Jones at pjones@novatoadvance.com.

Updated September 2, 2008

]]> http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_53 http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_53 Tue, 02 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT Electric scooters rolling into stores Vectrix brand goes up to 55 miles on a single charge

By:  Christopher D. Kirkpatrick
ckirkpatrick@charlotteobserver.com
Posted:    Thursday, Aug. 14, 2008

Joel Winkler, salesman at Team Charlotte Motorsports, perches on one of the new Vectrix electric scooters for sale there. The brand went on sale at two Charlotte-area stores about two weeks ago.
More Information

• Hybrid and scooter sales up
Nationwide registrations for new hybrid vehicles rose to 350,289 last year – 38 percent more than in 2006, according to R.L. Polk & Co., a Southfield, Mich.-based automotive information and marketing firm. The Toyota Prius lead the segment with 179,178 new registrations, or 51 percent of the hybrid market share.  Nationally, new scooter sales have been increasing steadily, particularly since gas prices spiked in the summer of 2005, according to the nonprofit Motorcycle Industry Council, an industry group based in Irvine, Calif.  N.C. registration of motor bikes with engines larger than 150 cc, which includes many scooter models, have been climbing, up 46 percent in five years and reaching nearly 200,000 last year, according to the N.C. Division of Motor Vehicles. -- Christopher D. Kirkpatrick Tucked inside a showroom of gas-powered racing bikes, four electric scooters rested incognito this week.

The rare animals, only four in the Team Charlotte Motorsports showroom, looked like regular gas-powered scooters. The difference: They can be recharged in 21/2 hours in a home outlet, and they take no gas or oil. Manufactured by Newport, R.I.-based Vectrix Corp., the sleek Vectrix scooter is the first all-electric, highway-legal bike. It has a 35- to 55-mile range with a top speed of 62 mph. In the Carolinas, the cost to operate is less than a penny a mile, based on the price of electricity. 
The scooter arrived on the Charlotte scene just two weeks ago as the latest green offering in a quickly transforming vehicle marketplace with consumers demanding transportation easy on gas and the environment.  Demand has been strong and growing, Vectrix said. Only about 60 U.S. dealers across the country carry them. But less than a year ago, there were only a handful. 
In general, sales of high-mpg scooters and hybrid cars are up since gas prices started surging over the past year. But some consumers want all-electric because there is no environmentally damaging exhaust, as there is from gas- powered internal combustion engines. 
Team Charlotte sold its first one Wednesday for $8,795. Traditional scooters run from about $2,000 to $8,000. You can't carry a family on a scooter, and it doesn't have room to carry multiple bags of groceries or lumber from the home improvement store. But the Vectrix, like traditional gas-powered scooters, is perfect for the solo commuter, said Mike Jeris, sales manager for Team Charlotte at 3004 Freedom Drive.  Team Charlotte is one of two dealers in the Charlotte area that carry the bike. The other is Matthews Fun Machine at 11240 East Independence Blvd.  The bike looks like a traditional scooter but is bigger. It's also more than twice as heavy because its large battery runs along the bottom of the frame, also giving it a low center of gravity. That means it's not easily pushed around by passing trucks and other highway wind, Jeris said.
 
Universities, including N.C. State University in Raleigh, have special state-funded initiatives to invent the next generation of car battery with more power and quicker recharge times.
And auto companies say they're working to get the first viable electric cars to the market that can be driven longer distances and at higher speeds in a single charge. BG Automotive Group, based in Philadelphia, plans to start manufacturing electric vehicles starting this year that cost about $16,000 and look like traditional cars. The “neighborhood” cars top out at 25 mph. General Motors, which plans to bring its new Chevy Volt hybrid to the market in late 2010, announced a partnership with a group of power companies that includes Charlotte-based Duke Energy. It aims to revamp the power grid and address other issues that could delay a future with more electric cars, such as where to recharge
while on the road. The Volt, which also would have a small gas-powered motor, could go 40 miles on just battery power, GM says.
 
But for the here-and-now, and for the highway, the Vectrix is the only bike offering an all-electric option, Vectrix says. 

Updated August 14, 2008

]]> http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_61 http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_61 Thu, 14 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT Electric scooters designed for commuters Article Launched: 08/12/2008 12:10:24 AM PDT



A San Rafael motorcycle shop is one of 45 dealers nationwide to sell the Vectrix electric
scooter, a cycle that charges in three hours. 

Cary Littell, owner of Marin BMW Motorcycles, had been looking for a freeway-legal scooter to sell and found the Vectrix at a trade show. It is one of just a few models made, and it and met speed, style and quality standards Littell sought.  The Vectrix is larger than traditional scooters and easily carries its driver and a passenger - and has a roomy compartment to stash groceries or a briefcase. 

"Over the long term, the scooter is going to be great for the environment," Littell said. "With
motorcycles and scooters, there is a shift from being for hobby or sport to pure transportation
as the price of gas goes up. We will have to all get used to different ways of getting around." 

Vectrix Corp. of Middletown, R.I., was established in 1996 to develop zero-emission vehicle
technologies based on two-wheel designs. The company has focused on clean, efficient, reliable
and affordable urban transportation. 

"The Vectrix is perfect for local residents who need to commute or just run around doing
errands," Littell said. "You wouldn't take the yacht to go water-skiing, so why fire up a huge
SUV to run down to the local market? The Vectrix is inexpensive to operate and is an
environmentally sound choice for Marin residents."

In San Rafael, Littell has sold 23 Vectrix scooters since they became available in May. The
scooters sell for $9,290, but with motor vehicle taxes and other fees, the cost rises to about
$10,200. 

Buyers can complete paperwork and file it with the state Air Resources Board for a $1,500
rebate under a program designed to encourage the use of alternative fuel and electric vehicles. 
While $1.62 million has been set aside for the fuel alternative program, air board spokesman
Dimitri Stanich said the state budget impasse could cause delays in getting checks in the mail. 
The biggest obstacle for potential buyers, Littell said, is licensing. The state requires scooter
drivers to carry motorcycle licenses. Littell recommends that anyone thinking about a scooter
enroll in the California Motorcycle Safety Program, a 16-hour class that includes instruction
and controlled riding, using the program's motorcycles and helmets.
 
On Tuesday, David Canepa and his son Ryan stopped by Littell's shop to check out the Vectrix. 
David Canepa said he is waiting for the delivery of electric trucks at his Mill Valley Market and
wants to do his part for the environment with his personal vehicle. He drives a Vespa for short
trips. 

"The Vespa's great, but these are pretty cool," Canepa said. 
Other dealers in Marin sell gas-powered scooters, and Marin Cycleworks in Corte Madera
carries the Zap brand electric scooter, but they have a maximum speed of 45 mph and are not
legal on highways. 

The Vectrix is ideal for commuters who work 13 miles or less from their homes - or more if
they can plug-in at work, Littell said. A fully charged scooter can travel about 35 to 55 miles,
depending on the terrain, traffic conditions and even the size of the driver. It has a top speed
of 62 mph and accelerates from 0 to 50 in 6.8 seconds. 

Marin BMW offers test rides for as long as 36 hours for customers who want to try one out. 
"It doesn't work for everybody," Littell said. "We want people to try it out and see if it works for
their needs and their lifestyle."

Updated August 12, 2008

]]> http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_56 http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_56 Tue, 12 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT Sioux Falls motorcycle dealer offers electric scooter
Patrick L. Delabrue
pdelabrue@argusleader.com 

While one thunders up the road with a powerful roar that proudly announces its presence to everyone in
earshot, the other modestly whispers its arrival with sterile cleanliness and efficiency.
 
Harley-Davidson motorcycles and Vectrix electric motor scooters might not seem like an obvious
partnership, but the two have joined together to market the scooter to South Dakota motorists.
 
J&L Harley-Davidson is South Dakota's first dealership offering the economically friendly Vectrix maxi-
scooter. "We're really excited to take them on, especially with a lot of cities in the United States mandated to go green," motorcycle sales manager Jim Entenman said. "It's a big initiative by everybody, and this is a product we can offer our customers that's 100 percent green."
 
With a top speed of 62 mph, Entenman said the scooter can keep up on the interstate and zoom through city streets with zero emissions and can go as far as 65 miles before it needs recharging.
"People spend a lot of money on gas every month, and this is good alternative to help cut back on that
expense," he said.
 
The scooters require no gas or oil and can be plugged into any 110/120-volt outlet to recharge in three to five hours.
 
"They're sleek, clean and fun," Entenman said.

Alan Bainbridge, 43, came to South Dakota for the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally from Whittier, Calif.
Bainbridge said an electric scooter could be in his future.
 
"For the commute in California, it would definitely reduce our smog out there," he said. "If we could get
more people on those, it would help a bunch. It would be a great way to be nice and quiet and save the
environment." Another curious J&L customer checking out the scooters was Rene Balez, 67, from Manitoba, Canada.
 
Balez also is in South Dakota for the Sturgis rally and has been riding Harleys for several years.
 
"Whether they're scooters or cars, electric vehicles are the way of the future," he said. "They're clean and affordable, so I may end up on one of those things too."

Updated July 31, 2008

]]> http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_57 http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_57 Thu, 31 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT Local investors say many factors make electric scooter a good investment
. 
Four years ago, Mike Ehrler invested in — of all things — a company pioneering the technology of
large electric scooters closer in overall size to a motorcycle. “It wasn’t much money, about $70,000. Back then, I did it on a lark,” Ehrler said. At the time, gas cost less than $2 per gallon, said the retired Ehrler’s Dairy Inc. co-founder and Louisville-based investor.

Now, with gas at $4 per gallon, investing in Vectrix Corp. seems more like kismet.
“With the price of gas where it is, I think it’s a very good investment,” Ehrler said. Rising fuel costs and concerns about the environment have made Vectrix a hot item, especially considering that it’s a fairly expensive, first-generation electric scooter. Waiting to scoot
When he decided to buy one himself last year, Ehrler had to wait six months for delivery, even
though he’s an investor. At Station Park Honda, located at 830 S. Ninth St., the scooters are sold out, with two orders of six units each due in the next few weeks, said Dean Johnson, the general manager.
Station Park Honda was one of a handful of Vectrix dealers only a few months ago, and it has sold a
total of 40 since the scooters became available in the United States last year, mostly in other states,
Johnson said. In addition to Louisville, Station Park has delivered Vectrix scooters to customers in Tennessee, Ohio, Illinois and even shipped them to Iowa, said Clyde Ensor Sr., who is both a Vectrix investor and a co-owner of Station Park Honda.

Station Park is the only dealership in Louisville that carries the scooters. It is owned by the Ensor
family, which also owns Hesco Parts LLC, a Louisville-based auto-parts manufacturer.
Right now, Vectrixes are assembled in Poland and shipped to the United States, but Ensor would like
to change that. With its United Parcel Service Inc. air hub, Louisville is perfectly positioned for
distribution, he said. “I’d like to assemble them here,” he said in an interview Wednesday. “I’m getting ready to call the CFO (Christopher Moe). With UPS, we could ship any place in North America.”
Ensor added that if it happens at all, it would be years down the road. Ehrler, the Ensor family and several others are among about 10 Louisville investors in Vectrix Corp. The result is that Louisville is the largest investor base — by number of investors — in the United States for the Newport, R.I.-based company, said Tom Eifler Jr., co-owner of The Eifler Group investment firm. That includes Eifler and his father, Tom Eifler Sr. Eifler the local connection Through a chance meeting, Eifler became the Louisville connection to the 12-year-old scooter manufacturer, which assembles the motorcycles in Wroclaw, Poland. That connection began informally in 2004 when Eifler, who has a commercial rating as a helicopter pilot, met Keith Fitzgerald, a New Hampshire-based venture capital investor, at a flight school in Torrance, Calif.
 
“We ended up hitting it off … so he brought his computer to dinner, showing me the info on Vectrix,”
Eifler said. Eifler was impressed enough to go to the company’s Rhode Island headquarters and look at
prototypes. He came back to Louisville with the idea that the Ensors “were naturals” as investors
because of their involvement in the motorcycle and auto-parts businesses.
Eifler describes the Ensors “as lifelong family friends, and we’ve been in and out of various deals
from real estate to all kinds of things.” Ensor’s longtime investing partner Mike Ehrler also came on board. Eifler convinced Vectrix executives to bring some of the scooters to Louisville, and he gathered
motor enthusiasts for the demonstration. Scooter catches the eye of manufacturer

At roughly the same time, executives with Parker Hannifin Corp., a Cleveland-based
conglomerate that makes a variety of industrial equipment related to motion, electro-mechanical
control and hydraulic systems, took an equity stake in the scooter startup. Since 1996, Vectrix executives have raised more than $110 million and taken the company from a small startup to a firm traded on the London Stock Exchange’s AIM Market, its small-cap trading desk, according to company financial documents. So far, worldwide sales — about $800,000 in 2007 — have been lower than expected. The company reported a $9 million loss for 2007, its first year of sales after years of development. Though the company stated it had about $37 million in cash on hand in late 2007, former company chairman Andy MacGowan expressed concerns at the time about the company’s liquidity.
But in recent months, sales have skyrocketed, and the number of Vectrix dealerships has increased to
about 50 in the United States from 10 in April, said Vectrix spokesman Gary Kimball, owner of
Kimball Communications LLC in Easton, Pa. Kimball, who got involved with Vectrix after buying one of the company’s scooters, said that because this is the first road-going electric scooter on the market, it’s been difficult to get high visibility.
 
“Other companies have announced plans to build an electric bike, but we are the first out with a
distribution network,” Kimball said. “We’re still building (brand) awareness. When you’re the first
company with a product like this, it takes a while to get traction.”
Lower-priced version planned In the early days, the investors believed the major market for electric scooters would be Europe, where small — though polluting — two-cycle motorcycles are a significant mode of transportation, Eifler said.

“The reality has been the exact opposite,” he said. “The U.S. market is now the main market.”
One reason seems to be expense, with more Americans willing to plunk down $8,795 for the current
version of the scooter. The bike is relatively pricey because Vectrix “used all the good stuff,” said Dean Johnson, Station Park Honda manager. The good stuff includes components and fit and finish that equals Japanese motorcycles, he said.
It also includes a number of top-shelf components, such as Italian-made Brembo disc brakes,
typically found on high-performance motorcycles such as Ducatis, and cast wheels rather than spoke
wheels. The company entered the U.S. market last year with a bike priced at $11,000, and that wasn’t
competitive, Johnson said. So Vectrix came back with a $9,999 price point, which has since dropped
to $8,795. Next year, Johnson said, the company will debut with a more modest version, priced at about
$5,000, but it will have a next-generation battery with greater range.
As a rider, “I like everything but the range,” Johnson said, which is about 55 miles per charge. “It’s
just knowing you’re limited.” The next generation of nickel-hybrid batteries will improve the range by maybe 10 miles, pushing it toward 70 miles on one charge. Not really a bargain scooter
By and large, though, Vectrix buyers are not people looking for a bargain or a remedy to gas prices.
They are people concerned about the environment. "I noticed that right out of the gate,” Johnson said.
When the delivery people drop off scooters, the customer typically has a hybrid car in the driveway,
he said.
 
So far, the dealership hasn’t advertised the scooters at all, but Johnson said he’s seen a surge of
interest by people interested in alternative modes of transportation. Eifler said he thinks a mix of reasons have people looking at alternative transportation — more talk about the “green” movement and the rapid switch to hybrid automobiles. But he believes fuel cost is still the prime motivator. “A year ago, people weren’t talking about gas. Now it’s at the forefront.”
 
Mike Ehrler says that for him, owning a Vectrix is fun and practical. Ehrler is hardly an objective source, not so much because he’s an investor, but because the 85-year- old rides his bike all over the place.
Twenty miles each way out to Oldham County to see friends from his home in the Newburg Road
area. To the post office. To the drugstore. “They say it’ll do 62 miles per hour, but it’ll do a good 65. When I get on the Watterson (Expressway), I can more than keep up with traffic,” Ehrler said.
“It’s very practical for commuting,” he said. “Once people realize this electric thing is practical — it’s
about the same price as a gas scooter — I think it could be a very good investment.” 

Vectrix facts • Rather than a gas tank, the Vectrix has a plug to connect to 120-volt or 220-volt outlets. There’s no conventional gasoline engine on this motor scooter, only a large industrial DC electric motor powered by a battery. That electric motor delivers 48 foot-pounds of torque, about the same as a 250 c.c. motorcycle engine. But because there is no gear box — just straight drive to the rear wheel — the acceleration to the top speed is extremely rapid. • The Vectrix has about 250 parts, far fewer than a conventional scooter with an internal combustion engine, which has about 2,500 parts.
• Its top speed is 62 miles per hour.
• Its range on one charge is up to about 55 miles.
• The nickel-cadium battery can be charged in about three hours. It costs about 1 cent per mile to charge the battery
at Louisville energy prices, Dean Johnson, Station Park Honda general manager, said.
• Rolling back the throttle not only slows the bike, it uses that reverse acceleration to create power to recharge the
battery. 
 
 
Send comments to tboyd@bizjournals.com

Updated July 25, 2008

]]> http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_62 http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_62 Fri, 25 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT Electric Euro scooters cut commute costs Highly charged ride 

Sue Vorenberg | The New Mexican
7/20/2008 - 7/18

 
When she walked into Santa Fe Motor Sports, Lisa Hinson couldn't imagine anything cooler  than the Aprilia scooter she had bought in Albuquerque about two weeks ago. 
 
When she walked out, though, she was ready to trade it in. 
 
After being nudged by a pesky reporter into test-driving a  Vectrix scooter, she said the decision was a no-brainer. 
 
The Vectrix, an all-electric scooter that looks more like a flashy, midsized motorcycle, pretty much sold itself, she said. "That is a beautiful machine," said Hinson, as she removed her helmet and swung her leg over the large padded seat. "I was doing over 60 when I went around the corner. It's fast. I wish I'd have known about this when I bought my Aprilia." 
 
The zippy scooters, which require a 125 cc motorcycle license to drive, are new to New Mexico and to the United States in general. They've been popular in Great Britain and the rest of Europe for several years, though. 
 
Santa Fe Motor Sports is the only dealer that sells them in New Mexico, and even with no advertising, the first six to arrive in the state last Monday are almost all gone, said owner Sid Mace. 
 
"I've been getting calls from Texas, and I just got a call from a guy who's coming up from Albuquerque," Mace said. "We'll probably do a new order on Monday, and we'll probably double our first order and get 12 of them." 
 
Hinson, who came in to shop for accessories to her Aprilia, was arranging a trade-in deal for the third Vectrix to leave the floor Thursday morning as her friend, Phill Johnson, looked on and chuckled at the fast decision. 
 
"Phill, get one," Hinson nagged him, grinning. 
 
Johnson, who didn't test-drive the Vectrix, said he wasn't as convinced the scooter was for him. "It's too much weight for me," Johnson said of the 510-pound vehicle. "That's a lot of weight for somebody to maneuver. But then again, you buy a scooter for what you're going to use it for." 
 
Johnson has a 240-pound scooter he says is light-weight and easy for him to maneuver around the streets of Santa Fe. 
 
But Hinson said maneuverability really wasn't a problem on the Vectrix. "I was concerned with it being so heavy, but when I drove it, I didn't notice that at all," Hinson said. "There are so many pluses to it. It can drive in reverse at 2 mph, and you don't even have to put any gas in it." 

Fuel costs for the machine are extremely cheap, especially at a time when gas has crested over $4 a gallon. In general, it costs about a penny a mile to operate in electricity costs, Mace said. 
 
That sounds great to Hinson, who owns Little Works USA, a handmade greeting-card company she operates
from her home in Santa Fe County, about five miles outside the city, she said. 
 
The Vectrix, which can generally go between 35 and 55 miles on a two- to three-hour charge, seems like the perfect machine for her to make quick trips into town, she said. 
 
"Man, don't you love technology," Hinson said. "Even if it costs $9,349, it's a good price. My Aprilia was
$6,700. It's a few thousand dollars more — but no gas costs. It's a good deal." 
 
Still, the scooter isn't for everyone, said sales manager Gregory Segura. 
 
"If your commute is 25 miles a day or less, this is your bike," Segura said. "If your commute is longer though, you probably need a real motorcycle." 
 
But even if the range isn't great for all commuters, Dawud Lutz, the store's service coordinator, and Segura are still fighting over who gets to try out a commute back and forth from home on the demo Vectrix. "It's cool. It's substantially zippy compared to most scooters," Lutz said. "I'd love to race one." 
 
Segura said he wouldn't mind buying one for his commute to and from work. "It's pretty neat," he said. "I want to take the demo home and show it to my girlfriend." 
 
To charge the scooter, you just plug it in, like a big kitchen appliance, to an outlet outside your house or
building. And the battery lasts for 50,000 miles, or about 10 years, Mace said. 
 
"It also has zero emissions, zero pollution," Mace said. "It's a bike that's just selling itself off the Internet."

Updated July 20, 2008

]]> http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_51 http://www.vectrix.com/press#news_51 Sun, 20 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT Scooters gain fans as gas remains high Sisters Judith DiObilda, 57, and Patricia Lombel, 55, both of Pottsville, are decreasing their carbon footprints by riding a national trend — scooters.

BY STEPHANIE LASOTA
STAFF WRITER
slasota@republicanherald.com
Published: Sunday, July 20, 2008 4:20 AM EDT
 
Sisters Judith DiObilda, 57, and Patricia Lombel, 55, both of Pottsville, are decreasing their carbon footprints by riding a national trend — scooters.
 
The sisters purchased their 150cc Diamo scooters about a month ago from Smith Motor Company Inc. on Route 61 in Orwigsburg.
 
“It really has to do with gas ... My sister started it. She was really committed to the environment and had been thinking about this, and that was kind of the incentive that helped me make the decision a little bit better,” DiObilda said.
 
Tom Smith, owner of the Orwigburg dealership, said his Diamo Scooters are in high demand.
 
“I go to Europe a lot and I was in Rome in early 2006 and I saw the scooter craze there and gas prices were really high ... So I brought them back here,” Smith said.
 
He said he’s already sold 50 this year.
 
On Smith’s most recent trip to Vienna, Austria, he said gas was about $9 a gallon.
 
“They laugh at us for complaining about gas prices,” he said.
 
A scooter, depending on the size of the engine, can get anywhere from 80 to 120 miles to the gallon, Smith said.
 
David Fannick, owner of Fannick’s Motor Sport and More, Frackville, said Friday, “We’re completely sold out. I think we have just one or two left in inventory. They’ve been the hot ticket; the scooter and small street bikes.”
 
Fannick’s sells Suzuki and Kymco scooters.
 
“We sell everything from 50cc, up to, Suzuki makes a 650cc — a Bergman — and that is like the Cadillac of scooters,” Fannick said. “A lot of it is fuel mileage and I think we noticed a similar bump in sales after Hurricane Katrina when fuel started to spike, when it was over $3 a gallon. Now that we’re close to $4 or at $4, it seems like it’s pretty much here to stay and I think a lot of people are looking for this less expensive transportation. And it’s fun, too.”
 
Janel Hirsch, 35, of Mechanicsville, purchased her Diamo scooter to commute to work at the Pottsville Hospital.
 
“Actually, I had a motorcycle, but I didn’t feel comfortable on it ... And gas prices were the other reason,” she said.
 
All scooters are automatic, including the fully electric Vectrix scooter sold at Matto Cycle in Pottsville.
 
Owner Bud Matto said the business started selling the gas-free scooters this year.
 
“It basically plugs into the wall, any 110 outlet — any wall outlet,” he said. “It’s zero emissions. It’s 100 percent electric. You literally never have to stop at a gas station.”
 
Matto said he hasn’t seen a lot of local interest in the gas-free model yet, but hopes they gain some speed.
 
He said they travel up