Community electric car sparks interest

In June we took delivery of our new zero emission Nissan Leaf community electric vehicle which will be recharged using energy generated by solar panels on the roof of our low carbon sports pavillion. The car will run for about 95 miles when fully charged and comes full of useful gizmos including SATNAV and A/C. Village residents over 18 will soon be able sign up for the scheme and we are using the Commonwheels social enterprise company to managed booking online or by phone. Residents will be given instruction on how to operate the vehicle and guidance on managing the distances they can drive. As more charge points are installed across the UK, the distances we wll be able to drive should increase. Members who join the car club will also get access to the UK-wide Commonwheels network. (The car is pictured here outside our thriving community owned shop and with test driver, Garry Charnock).