GreenZone Drive gets under way

Annual zero-emissions/low-emissions drive program back for another year

Melbourne drivers can expect to see some unusual looking vehicles running around the city's streets as the RACV GreenZone Drive sets off once again. And the organisers are hoping that some of the spectators might even drop in for a drive.

Commencing today and running until Friday September 2, the GreenZone Drive aims to educate drivers about cars that are better for the environment — cars that emit very little in the way of CO2 emissions, or even none at all.

“This year we have two zero tailpipe emission cars for the public to drive, the Mitsubishi i-MiEV, which was a huge success last year with GreenZone Drive testers, and the all-new Nissan LEAF, the first small zero emission competitor for the highly popular five-seater hatchback market,” says RACV spokesman Simon Mikedis.

Electric recharging utility Better Place will be on hand for the event, demonstrating the company's infrastructure, developed to keep electric vehicles (EVs) on the road.

“We’re delighted to support GreenZone Drive for the second year in a row, says Ben Keneally, Head of Marketing and Strategy for Better Place Australia.

“We use 100 per cent renewable energy to power our network and we’re proud to offer a fully zero emissions driving experience.”

“Our Charge Spots will be on display and the cars will be using them in front of the Rialto. We’ll also have our friendly staff on hand between 11-2pm each day to demonstrate how simple and convenient it is to plug in your electric car, and to answer any questions people may have about electric car infrastructure, technology or services.

“We invite everyone to come down, check out the event and learn some interesting facts about electric and low emissions vehicles. Making the switch to sustainable transport is one of the most positive things we can do for the planet: zero emissions driving is now fun, fast and affordable."

It's the second consecutive year the event has been run, and the general public is invited to try the different cars on offer, comprising diesels, hybrids and EVs (electric vehicles). Participants can choose from any one of 12 vehicles on offer for a 2km drive.

Supported by the Low Emission Vehicle (LEV) Automotive Partnership with additional backing from Shell, Michelin, the Global Fuel Economy Initiative and Better Place, the GreenZone Drive is based at Melbourne's iconic Rialto building, 525 Collins Street. Bookings for test drives can be made through the event's website, www.greenzonedrive.com.au.

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