The G-Wiz from GoinGreen is manufactured
by the Reva Electric Car Company and is the best selling electric car in
the UK.
The G-Wiz is emission free, with no
exhaust emissions. It uses just one quarter as much energy as a similar
size small car with an internal combustion engine.
The G-Wiz is now in
its third model variant, the G-Wiz i. The latest model features an
advanced ac powertrain for a smoother more powerful ride, an anti-roll
bar for improved handling, a new crash tested safety package, new front
disc brakes which improve braking performance by 30%, improved vision
and driving position, improved certified top speed of 50 mph, nippy
acceleration and excellent value for money. The G-Wiz i seats two adults
and has two small folding rear seats for small children or the
shopping. There are also a number of upgrade options available on the
AC Drive including a Lithium-ion battery, air-con, leather seats, paint
colour and alloy wheels.
As well as being green, the G-Wiz makes financial sense too. Due
to its zero emissions, it is exempt from road tax and the London
Congestion Charge. Businesses benefit from 100% year 1 tax write
down and company car tax rate of just 9%. A years
fuels, or electricity in this case works out to just £50 on average or
1.3p/mile. There are more and more parking incentives to take
advantage of too in London, details of which can be found
here.
The G-Wiz is fully automatic and well
suited to slow speeds of London traffic although it is limited by its
top speed on faster road.
It is constructed from a stainless steel safety cage with 100% recyclable ABS
body panels. Power comes from 8 x 6v lead acid batteries connected in
series with a regenerative braking system. Charging takes between
2.5 to 8 hours for a full charge from a standard main socket or from one
of the increasing number of car parks with free charging facilities.
Notes
G-Wiz is carbon neutral: GoinGreen will off-set the CO2 produced during the
manufacture, shipping and first two year's driving for every G-Wiz sold
via contributions to Climate Care.
Other models may be available. CO2 emissions can vary significantly
within the same model according to specification, fuel type and whether
the car is manual or automatic. Prices are for guidance only.
Reviewed by Bob T from London on 14th
October 2007
(G Wiz tested 2005) Probably the biggest
surprise was that inside that tiny body there was comfortable room for a
very large person (myself) as well as the person from the distributors.
Furthermore there was space for a number of suitcases at the back. The
ride and steering were quite heavy. I tried its hill-climbing abilities
on Haverstock Hill and it maintained around 20-25mph but could get no
information on how this might reduce the range. Two minor issues that I
didn't pursue are heating for winter use (this is electrical and adds to
battery drain). Also the maintenance/longevity of the lead acid
batteries. Some might feel uncomfortable about impact protection for
rear seat passengers. But all in all I found it a minimal but practical
vehicle for use in London.
