Green advocates launch E-jeepney

By Marjorie Gorospe INQUIRER.net THE Philippine Utility Vehicle Inc. (PhUV) and Green Renewable Independent Power Producer, Inc launched an electric powered utility vehicle, dubbed E-jeepney, which can carry up to 14 passengers . This electric-powered vehicle comes with a battery that needs to be charged six to eight hours before use. The vehicle can travel up to 90 kilometers when fully charged. The vehicle can reach up to 60 kilometers per hour but proponents said it would be more efficient to travel at 45 KM per hour. It also uses manual stick shift. PhUV president Ferdinand Raquelsantos said that the e-jeepney has the same component parts of an ordinary vehicle but without because a combustion engine. Land and Transportation Office currently recognizes the e-jeepney as a regular vehicle requiring normal registration. “This jeepney will not cause any pollution such as carbon emission and noise. It’s also provides a comfortable ride because it doesn’t have the vibration you get from a normal vehicle,” said Raquelsantos. He added said that the e-jeepney is ideal for urban areas and villages that want to promote an environmentally friendly vehicle. Compared to a regular vehicle, the e-jeepney is cheaper since one will only need to spend P2.50 per kilometer. Using a diesel engine, one spends P15 per kilometer. He said that they have already talked to transport groups about the e-jeepney. “Once we complete this project, we can convert their existing engines to a total electric-powered one,” said Raquelsantos. The conversion would cost P300,000. Raquelsantos expects a good growth of e-jeepney years from now especially if more urban areas will embrace the green movement.