Council plugs in to electric technology

Cairns Regional Council is plugging in to new automotive technology, with a fully electric passenger car added to its fleet on a temporary basis.

The i-MiEV, which runs entirely on electricity, was supplied by Ireland’s Mitsubishi on a trial basis, with a view to further Council use.

“That trial, so far, has proved successful,” Mayor Bob Manning said.

“Council staff have been using the car for work travel and the feedback has been very positive in relation to driveability, power and comfort.”

The i-MiEV has a 16kWh battery and, on an average tariff of 25c/kWh, would cost around $4 per 100km – a third of the cost of most petrol-powered small cars.

A fully-charged battery will last up to 150km, with an electrical outlet installed in Council’s Spence Street carpark providing the charge.

“There is no fuel consumption at all – it’s cleaner and much less expensive to operate. Even when charged from the electricity grid, the emissions generated are far less than a conventional petrol-powered vehicle.”

Cr Manning said the release of the State of the Environment report yesterday and the Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory earlier this month highlighted Council’s commitment to leading the way in resource efficiency.

“It is up to Council to show leadership and the results speak for themselves,” Cr Manning said.

“Significant steps have been taken to reduce Council’s environmental impact and there are more to come.

“We would like to express our thanks to Ireland’s Mitsubishi for supplying this car and providing Council the opportunity to trial this new technology.”