London to Become the Electric Car Capital of Europe
At least £60 million is going to be thrown into the new scheme proposed by London mayor Boris Johnson. The plan is to introduce charging points for electric cars at Tube stations, car parks, shopping centres and petrol stations. Allegedly the work will start by the end of 2009.
London is aiming at 100,000 electric cars and 25,000 charging points by 2015. It seems a very brave estimate since all previous eco targets set by British government have failed for obvious reasons. It is possible that the government subsidy will improve the matter after 2011, though.
Currently the green, bike-riding mayor of London is facing criticism from by the society. Much of the criticism is unconstructive because some people are afraid of changes without considering all the pros and cons. However, before introducing the new charging points, it is necessary to have a strict plan and a good understanding of how London “works”.
For example, the idea to stick chargers at Tube stations is barely good. Majority of London Underground stations lack parking facilities. I can understand where Boris Johnson is coming from - a Tube station provides a convenient access to electric power without involving sophisticated roadworks, still most of the Underground stations are unsuitable for this purpose.
It is necessary to remember that if we don’t learn to cut our household and business electricity consuming, a sudden surge in charging points and electric cars will lead straight to a mega-blackout. Mind that somebody still have to produce electricity that goes into our electric cars.
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