Blog  January 13, 2012

Who revived the electric car?

The Better Place Demonstration Centre at EBW (Photo: Better Place)

With an estimated 750 million cars on the road today accounting for roughly 20 percent of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions and 50 percent of its oil consumption, it’s clear that we must move toward clean, sustainable forms of transportation… and fast!

Founded in 2007, Better Place is striving to accelerate that transition by creating a transportation system that is optimized for electric vehicles—and that will minimize environmental impact substantially.

With its Canadian headquarters right here at EBW, Better Place is an apt choice for launching the Profiles of Innovation, a showcase of organizations and individuals at the forefront of the green economy, and a signature initiative from our Centre for Green Cities program. Watch the video below for more.

In March 2011, Better Place introduced an electric vehicle (EV) charging and demonstration project here, which offers an interactive way to inform the public about these cars. Open six days a week, visitors can test drive EVs, explore their interactive displays or speak with staff to learn more about their unique network and technology.

Worldwide, the company is revolutionizing the industry by promoting new technology for longer-lasting batteries, and introducing Battery Switch Stations that make electric cars more attractive in terms of convenience and affordability.

The inability to switch a battery quickly and conveniently has always been a limitation for mass adoption of electric cars. But at a Battery Switch Station, drivers can have their battery switched automatically in less time than it takes to fill up a tank of gas—they simply pull up, replace with a fully charged battery, and continue on their trip. Making electric cars just as affordable as gas-powered cars, the battery-switch innovation reduces cost, risk and worries for drivers.

With a new demonstration centre recently opened in China, Better Place is expanding the electric-car market to new heights—adding to its growing network worldwide.

Stay tuned for more profiles, as we continue to feature the environmental innovators leading the way to a sustainable future.