A Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) is a popular alternative for today's environmentally conscious business owners. A ZEV uses energy from rechargeable batteries or hydrogen fuel cells instead of a traditional gasoline-powered internal combustion engine. A Zero Emission car produces no emissions or pollution from the vehicle.

The most common current Zero Emission Vehicle is the electric car, which runs only on batteries. Electric cars are quiet zero-emission vehicles and feature the same comfort and safety features as gas-powered vehicles like climate control systems and air bags. Unlike gas-powered vehicles, ZEV electric cars consume no gas, are economically efficient and possess an environmentally friendly design.

Before purchasing a business car from a Zero Emission Vehicle provider, carefully research Zero Emission car information, evaluate your company's transportation needs and assess the following:

1. How far do your business colleagues need to travel each day in your company's Zero Emission Vehicle?

2. How often will your work staff use the Zero Emission car and how far in advance do staff members plan for automobile travel?

3. How much money is your business willing to invest in a Zero Emission Vehicle and which Zero Emission car provider offers the best prices?

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Purchase a Zero Emission car if your company's daily work travel is less than 50 miles

Most Zero Emission Vehicles are limited as to how many miles they can go on a single battery charge, ranging from as few as 25 miles to more than 200 miles. A Zero Emission car is ideal for short trips in urban areas. If your business travel needs typically require staff members to drive long distances, a Zero Emission Vehicle might not suit your business needs.

I recommend: The Tesla Roadster is Zero Emission Vehicle that goes approximately 220 miles per battery charge. The 80-mile range of the Tango by Commuter Cars Corporation is almost four times as far as the average commuter travels each day.

Buy a ZEV if you plan your automobile business travel in advance

Zero Emission Vehicle batteries need to be recharged. Plugging in a car at your business facility each night can be tricky, and recharging batteries while away from the office can be challenging. Battery charging can take several hours and will require staff members to plan their travel schedules accordingly.

I recommend: Access a Zero Emission Vehicle list of low-speed ZEVs that recharge in approximately six to eight hours at Global Electric Motorcars. The Chevrolet Volt by General Motors Corporation takes about six to seven hours to recharge, which allows the vehicle to go approximately 40 miles solely on electric power.

Invest in a Zero Emission Vehicle for the long-term economic business advantages

While Zero Emission cars provide long-term financial savings for your business, they come with a substantial initial price tag. Zero Emission car batteries are expensive and need to be replaced approximately every three years. However, factor in that Zero Emission cars cost only about three cents a mile to run, which is a significant monetary savings compared to gas-powered vehicles.

I recommend: The THINK City Car recently released for U.S. sale is considered one of the more affordable Zero Emission Vehicles with an average price tag in the mid-$20,000s. Use the Return on Investment calculator at Phoenix Motorcars to find Zero Emission Vehicle cost savings and comparative Zero Emission Vehicle information.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  If your business already has a transportation fleet and you aren't ready to give up the convenience of your gas-powered vehicles, you may find Zero Emission car models are environmentally and financially smart vehicles to add to your fleet. It is practical for short commutes, and, with no need for gasoline, will provide a considerable cost savings.