The ENMAX group of companies is leading the way in bringing environmentally friendly energy options to Albertans. In the fall of 2010 we will be introducing an electric vehicle pilot program to ENMAX employees. It will allow us to evaluate the benefits electrical vehicles can bring to our customers as well as the positive impact on the environment. We are committed to making these options easy, affordable and accessible to Albertans.

This pilot is a continuation of our environmental focus and our commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions through renewable and efficient power generation in Alberta.

From July 9 -26 ENMAX will be attending various events throughout the City of Calgary that will display some of the electric vehicles we will be piloting. These cars include:

• Mitsubishi i-MiEV
• Toronto Electric A2B
• 1916 Rauch and Lang Antique electric car

The electric vehicle details below are as provided by the manufacturer.

Courtesy of Shaw TV

Mitsubishi i-MiEV

The i-MiEV stands for Mitsubishi Innovative Electric Vehicle. The i-MiEV has been on sale in Japan since July 2009. At the 2009 Tokyo International Motor Show, the Mitsubishi i-MiEV was presented with the Japanese Car of the Year award for Most Advanced Technology.

i-MiEV Details:

• Zero emission vehicle. When considering the CO2 emissions from power plants, emits only about 30 per cent of CO2 compared to running a gasoline mini car.
• Cost per kilometer is one third compared to similar gasoline vehicles
• Can be charged with a 110V or 220V power source at home or in a parking lot. Charging time can be reduced using the quick-charger on the vehicle.
• Uses high capacity lithium-ion batteries located in the floor, replacing the conventional engine, transmission and fuel tank. The motor is also located in the floor, allowing for a roomy interior.
• Smaller, quieter, lightweight motor
• Excellent acceleration and low centre of gravity lead to superior handling and stability
• Maximum speed – 130 km/h
• Cruising distance with a single charge – 120 km

Toronto Electric A2B – "Yellow Car"

The A2B will be available in the ENMAX electric car pilot. 

The A2B is a 2-passenger car with a range of 210 km. The car is expected to be produced as part of Project Eve, a Canadian initiative to create a sustainable electric mobility industry in Canada as part of the solution to Canada’s emerging energy and environmental issues.  Electric energy providers are included in Project Eve’s scope.

Toronto Electric is a major distributor of electric motors from small to industrial size vehicles.

A2B Details:

• Battery pack is located in the floor of the vehicle (26.6 kWh battery pack)
• Power consumption is 15 kWh per 100 km
• When fully charged, can achieve 0-60 Kilometres per hour in four seconds

Toronto Electric – 1916 Rauch & Lang JX6 Double Control Electric Car

This car demonstrates that the idea of electric vehicles is well established and existed at the advent of the gas-powered vehicle. In fact, electric power has been commonplace in other vehicle types, such as trains and smaller vehicles.

The Rauch & Lang automobiles were electrically powered and often adorned with luxurious amenities. The electric motor provided benefits over the gas-powered engine:

• Starting the automobile was easy as there was no crank to start the motor like gas-powered cars of the time     
• The electric motor was quiet
• The vehicle did not produce fumes

However, there were some drawbacks that lead to gas-powered engines having mass appeal:

• Electric cars could only travel a short distance before requiring a recharge.
• Gas-powered engines had increased horsepower, exhaust systems created and an electric starter introduced.

Advances in electric vehicle technology have made electric vehicles a viable option today.

Frequently Asked Questions

View our Electric Vehicle FAQ's.