Ask AutoblogGreen: What regulations govern electric vehicles?

Here at AutoblogGreen we get plenty of questions from readers about all kinds of topics related to alternative transportation. Reader James asks: “Reportedly, there is a federal law which limits the size/speed of autos on all roads. This, in effect restricts electric alternative vehicles that must exceed 35 mph speed. I haven’t got the whole story correct, I’m sure. That’s why I’m trying to get the straight story. Specifically, determine whether such a Federal law exists, and if so, what exactly does it restrict?” So what exactly is the story? In the electric “car” ranks there are basically three classes of vehicle. There are three wheelers like the Zap Xebra or Aptera which are classed as motorcycles and therefore not subject to crash safety standards. These vehicles are allowed to operate at any speed. Then there are full-speed vehicles which have at least four wheels, are capable of exceeding 25 mph and have a gross vehicle weight rating of less than 8,500 lbs. These vehicles are subject to all of the same safety regulations as any other car on the road today. That means the bumpers must withstand 2.5 mph impacts, there must be seatbelts and airbags and all sorts of other rules regarding lighting and impact safety are enforced. The only series production EV currently available in the U.S. today that meets this classification is the Tesla Roadster . Then there are low-speed vehicles . Car Blog Greenon after the jump to find out more. Continue reading Ask AutoblogGreen: What regulations govern electric vehicles? Auto Blog: EV/Plug-in , Legislation and Policy Ask AutoblogGreen: What regulations govern electric vehicles? originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 25 Feb 2009 11:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds . Car Blog Green | Car Blog Green | Car Blog Green | Car Blog Green

Original post:
Ask AutoblogGreen: What regulations govern electric vehicles?