Electro fated

I have often read your opinion in different contexts that multiple short journeys is a 'car killer'. We are retired and very fortunate to live in West Cornwall - 3 miles from the National Trust at Trellissick for wonderful walks and gardens, 4.5 miles from Truro, 5.5 from the swimming pool, 7 from Falmouth and boat moorings and 8 to 10 miles from spectacular parts of Cornwall's north coast. Nearly all the roads are 30 or 40 mph restricted - hardly ever get into top gear. We use either our Freelander TD4 or Peugeot 307 CC diesel for these short trips and our longer travelling 'up country'. We have plenty of space to park a third vehicle. Theoretically a rechargeable electric powered car would cope with all our day-to-day local travelling (a 2 seater would suffice provided there is enough room for a fairly upright driving position - I am 6'2'' and prone to back pain in low seats with poor support). Is there such an electric vehicle or failing that could you recommend a simple ultra economy petrol or diesel for multiple short journeys?

Asked on 15 May 2010 by B.R., via e-mail

Answered by Honest John
Not an opinion. A fact. You are absolutely right that for this sort of use an electric car would make the most sense. But so far they are all either awful, or unaffordable. And, of course, the power they run on increasingly comes from oil or coal fired power stations as Britain is forced to shut down its outdated nuclear power stations and has no clear policy for power generation in the future.
Tags: diesels owning
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