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FAQs
What are electric vehicles?
Electric Vehicles (EV's) offer some of the most exciting possibilities for commuters today. The range, speed and performance of EVs is improving so quickly that they are being taken increasingly seriously by those who wish to cut down on their carbon footprint. At Green Machines we offer the entire scope of vehicles available on the market today, from e-bicycles, e-scooters and e-cars for commuters to electrically powered heavy commercial vehicles.
How do they work?
The battery in an EV provides the same function as a fuel tank in a petrol vehicle. The energy needed to drive the motors is stored inside the battery, as fossil fuels are stored in a petrol tank. When you switch on the EV the energy from the battery is directed to the motor and off you go!
What is regenerative braking and how does it work?
A EV which is equipped with regenerative braking redirects energy back to the batteries when the brakes are applied. This is energy which would otherwise be lost in the braking process, but by re-claiming it the range of the EV can be extended by up to 15%
How do you know the battery status and conditions?
EV’s have battery charge indicators or gauges to display the battery charge similar to those in an internal combustion vehicle.
Are there any tax incentives for switching to an electric vehicle?
Green Machines have been lobbying the government for tax incentives on electric vehicles since it was established in 2001. This resulted in a full exemption from VRT in the last budget for 2008. We continue to lobby for further incentives including free parking in the city centres, provision of charging points both on-street and in high density developments as well as both private and corporate tax incentives.
If you wish to stay informed about our progress please subscribe to our regular newsletters.
Why are electric vehicles considered zero emission when they are probably charged from the national grid?
Electric vehicles do not require exhaust pipes because there is no internal reaction which results in CO2 emissions. They do not emit any exhaust fumes. Unfortunately, Green Machines do not have any control over the national grid, but we can encourage people to switch to a renewable energy provider, of which there are a growing number in the Irish market.
The national grid currently produces 637g CO2 per kWh (kilowatt hour). Even when you charge your electric vehicle from this energy source it takes on average about 10 times less CO2 to power the vehicle.
What are the service costs for electric vehicles?
Little or none, save charging the battery regularly and occasionally changing brake pads and tyres (same as in petrol/ diesel vehicles). Electric vehicles have far less moving parts than internal combustion engines. There are also no oil filters to be changed.
What are the costs of charging an EV?
Electric "fuel" costs are very low in comparison to petrol or diesel - typically less than 1c per kilometre! The current ESB charge for 1kWh (kilowatt hour) of electricity is 14.35 cents (+ VAT). To put this in perspective, the Vectrix maxi-scooter, which has a range of 110km @ 40km/h, costs about 55 cents to charge fully!
EV’s are also the ONLY technology that can be fuelled directly with CLEAN RENEWABLE ENERGY from solar panels, wind or hydroelectric power.
Do I need driving a driving licence and insurance for an EV?
Yes, same as a “normal” car or motorcycle. e-Bicycles do not require a license.
Are they easy to recharge?
Yes, just plug it in to a normal domestic power socket. e-Bicycles also have smaller detachable batteries which can be removed and charged separately from the bike.
Are there any possibilities that users will get electrocuted while riding/driving an EV?
NOT A CHANCE! Scooters and other electric vehicles are well insulated and weather proofed by manufacturers against any risk of electrical shock.
Is it safe to use an electric vehicle in the rain? Is it safe to wash?
ABSOLUTELY!! As above, electric vehicles are well insulated and weather proofed! If they gave a shock every time it rained we wouldn’t be selling them!!
How long do the batteries last?
This depends on the battery type, how it is used and charged and the vehicle type.
Generally:
| Battery Type | Cost | Capacity | Maintenance | Lifespan |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead Acid | Low | Medium | Medium | Very High |
| Lead Acid Gel | Medium Low | Medium | Very Low | Highest |
| Ni Metal Hydride | High | Very High | Very Low | Lowest |
| Lithium Ion | Very High | Highest | Long | Longest |
Can the batteries be replaced?
Yes, we carry a large stock in our showrooms of the most popular types.
What is the difference between a brushed and a brushless motor?
Brushed motors have a commutator and brushes which may require some maintenance in long term use at very low cost for brushes. Brushless motors do not have commutators and brushes, which means hey are maintenance free. Both systems are reliable but the brushless type tends to be more energy efficient.
What is the difference between an AC and DC motor?
AC – Alternating Current – this is the same as mains power or alternator.
DC - Direct Current – This is supplied by a battery or generator.
What is the advantage of an EV?
Because EV's run on electricity from batteries, they offer freedom from high oil prices, have very low pollution, low maintenance, low running costs and they’re also fun to drive!
What is the efficiency of EV’s?
EV's are nearly twice as efficient as internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, and significantly less polluting, even when power plant emissions are considered!
What is the climbing ability?
Depending on the vehicle, they are usually the same as a "normal vehicle".
Does an electric vehicle need to be warmed up?
No, just start it up and off you go!
What kind of people are suited to EV’s?
At the moment, EVs are ideally suited for those who are travelling from the suburbs to urban centres on a daily basis. E-bikes and e-scooters are one of the quickest and most environmentally friendly ways to get around a city today. They’re also one of the cheapest!
If you have any questions which have not been answered above please call us at: 01 4900470 or email your query to info@greenmachines.ie.