Clever Innovations for a Greener Future

Affordable Electric: The inexpensive One has an upgradable battery.  Courtesy Bee Automotive

British Invasion

Meet the One, the world’s most economical electric car. The five-door hatchback, to be built by British automaker Bee, will feature an exchangeable battery pack. As a result, “the One will keep up with innovation as battery technology improves” says chairman Stephen Voller. Owners can recharge the car’s battery at home or swap it out at Bee’s yet-to-be-built stations. The car’s lightweight, sturdy aluminum frame keeps the cost at $19,400, tens of thousands below other all-electric options. But it won’t lack zip: Voller says it will travel 100 miles on a single charge and hit 80 mph. Bee is looking into California emission and safety standards, and plans for
the One to hit the London streets in 2011.