Frequently Asked Questions about electric cars - Optimal Energy

No. Electric cars such as Joule reduce the total pollution and green house gas (GHG) emissions considerably. Electric vehicles are about five times more energy efficient than petrol or diesel vehicles. This efficiency gain is even bigger when used in urban applications. Regardless of the energy source, only about 20% as much energy is required, meaning that in operation it creates only 20% of the GHG and pollution created by a conventional vehicle. Moreover, electricity is a multi-source energy carrier and clean sources, such as hydro or solar generated power, can lead to a 100% reduction in GHG pollution. Joule will mostly be charged over night, when coal power stations are particularly wasteful. So, in these circumstances, Joule will often be making use of what would otherwise be wasted energy.

Yes. Electricity generated by any means can be used to power Joule. In fact, Joule has an optional solar panel incorporated into its roof that provides energy for accessories such as the air-conditioner and electric windows or to provide a few bonus kilometers.

This depends on the type of generating technology used. Most coal–burning power sources produce high levels of CO2 (carbon dioxide, a green house gas). Solar and wind energy sources reduce this to zero. An important issue however, is that coal–fired power stations have to keep running at night, wasting huge amounts of coal and energy during off–peak times. Using this off–peak coal–fired energy adds no additional CO2.

Joule meets the requirements of European recyclability legislation. Development is an ongoing activity and Optimal Energy will ensure that Joule’s recyclability will continue to improve in line with future international trends.