Frequently Asked Questions
1.How does an electric vehicle differ from a gasoline-powered or hybrid vehicle?
An electric vehicle (EV) is an automobile that only uses electricity for propulsion instead of gas. EVs are usually powered by on-board battery packs, have good acceleration and acceptable top speeds. EVs first came into existence in the mid-19th century. EVs are emerging as a potential solution to environmental concerns and peak oil prices.
2.Why is ENMAX involved in an electric vehicle pilot?
This pilot is a continuation of ENMAX’s environmental focus and commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
By studying the impacts and benefits of electric vehicles on the power grid, we are preparing for when electric vehicles are widely available in Alberta.
3.Who is participating in the electric vehicle pilot?
Beginning in Fall 2010, we plan to run a pilot in Calgary, which includes testing 80 vehicles with our employees, 10 in our ENMAX fleet and 10 in The City of Calgary fleet.
4. Is ENMAX selling electric vehicles?
No. At this time, we are conducting a test pilot only We will be selling the energy needed to energize these vehicles.
5. What kind of electric vehicles is ENMAX testing?
- Nissan Leaf
- Mitsubishi i-MiEV
- Toronto Electric (Project Eve) A2B
- Motive Industries (Project Eve) Kestrel
- Ford Escape & F-150 Conversion
6. How safe are electric vehicles?
Safety systems have been engineered so the voltage contained in the system will dissipate upon system breach or failure. As well, batteries are placed in a protective case. The lithium batteries are designed to withstand very high temperatures, up to 250 degrees Celsius.
7. How fuel efficient is an electric vehicle?
With little waste heat, an electric car will travel at least four times as far on the same amount of energy as an equivalent car fuelled with gas.
8. How much C02 do EV’s emit?
Personal vehicles contribute 12.7 per cent of Canada’s total carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. EVs can help reduce CO2 emissions; in Alberta, the average EV is responsible for 45 % fewer emissions than the average gasoline-powered passengar car.
9. What is the average cost to run an electric vehicle?
The average passenger vehicle in Canada is driven approximately 16,000 kilometers per year. In 2009, the average annual fuel cost per vehicle was $1,809. An average EV, assuming $0.08/kWh for electricity, our EasyMax price, would cost $267 a year.
10. Will electric cars put more pressure on the electrical grid?
The 1-4 KW of power drawn while charging an EV is about the same amount used for one clothes dryer, two dishwashers or four plasma TVs. The gradual introduction of EVs to the roads should not cause significant impacts to the power grid.
11. Is there a wide range of Electric Vehicles to choose from?
As of March 31, 2010, there were 84 EVs registered in Alberta, 21 of them in the Calgary area. Nearly every auto manufacturer has plans to develop EVs, with many models targeted to launch this year.
Where can I get more information?
To receive updates on ENMAX’s Drive into the Future electric vehicle pilot program, sign up here.