NWES - News Section

 

The Renault Twizy was decked out in a Union Jack as visitors to Lowestoft’s flagship hub for offshore renewable energy were able to see the benefits of electric motoring.

 

Andy Duffield, New Car Sales Manager at Mitchells Renault of Lowestoft said: “We are convinced that once people have test driven an electric vehicle and recognised the environmental and financial benefits of switching to an electric car or van they will be hooked. This is a step in the right direction towards a cleaner, greener environment.”

 

OrbisEnergy, which is owned by Suffolk County Council, recently installed the electric car charging point with help from a grant fund managed by transport innovation company EValu8. The innovation centre is keen to make people aware of public usage of the PodPoints which can also be found at the Beacon Innovation Centre in Gorleston, Norfolk.

 

Like OrbisEnergy, it is part of a portfolio of 18 enterprise centres managed by business support organisation NWES.

 

John Balch, Strategic Director of NWES said: “Suffolk has the aspirationto be the greenest county, so the role of OrbisEnergy, renewable energy and the evolution of electric cars goes hand in hand. Electric cars and vans are very much a part of that future and it is important we lift awareness of the availability of these charging points for those motorists who have already recognised the benefits. This is one of only two dedicated charging points in Lowestoft where members of the public can charge their cars.”

 

The futuristic Twizy is just 2.34 metres long by 1.24 metres wide and is designed for a driver and one passenger to sit in tandem. Thanks to its four-wheeled chassis and extremely low centre of gravity, Renault Twizy delivers a reassuringly stable ride, while disc brakes all-round, ensure precise, efficient stopping power.
 

The Kangoo Van Z.E has already scooped the International Van of the Year 2012 title and What Van? Magazine’s top prize, and is the world’s first electric light commercial vehicle (LCV) produced by a mass market manufacturer.

 

For more information on the range of electric vehicles available or to arrange a test drive, visit Mitchells in Long Road, Lowestoft, contact them on 01502 500950 or visit their website www.mitchellsrenault.co.uk 

 

For further information about OrbisEnergy, the regional hub for offshore wind, or to find out how to access the free electric vehicle charging POD Points at the venue, call 01502 563368 or email orbisenergy@nwes.org.uk