The best commuter bikes for 2011 present a wide variety of styles and components to best suit personal needs. Bike manufacturers have answered the call to the increased population of bike commuters by designing full lines of commuter specific bikes. Though many of these commuter bikes aren’t cheap, if you’re giving up the car in favor of the most efficient form of transportation, you will of course save money. It is recommended that if you only have it in your budget to buy a cheap department store bike, then you’re better off finding a high quality used bike. But most of all, you want a well-fitted commuter bicycle with the best components that will make you want to ride every day. By reading reviews at BikeForums.net, Bicycling magazine, and EcoVelo, we’ve come up with an updated list that highlights some of the best of this ever expanding commuter bike market. Read on for our picks of the best commuter bikes for 2011.

Breezer Uptown 8 Commuter Bike

Breezer Uptown 8 Commuter Bike

Created by Joe Breeze, one of the founding fathers of mountain bikes, Breezer Bikes have designed a line of commuter bikes that are ready to hit the bike lane. The Uptown 8 features an aluminum frame, 8 speed Shimano Nexus internal hub, suspension seat post, and heavy-duty urban tires. No need to worry about purchasing more accessories, the Uptown 8 already comes equipped with a full chainguard, rear rack, fenders, kickstand, bell, and hub-generated front and rear LED lights. It even comes with its’ own integrated lock, though it’s recommended you have a good quality u-lock. Named by Bicycling Magazine as the Commuter Bike of the Year, the geometry of this bike puts the rider at a comfortable upright position, yet not too upright to be able to handle some hills. The Breezer Uptown 8 also comes in a step-through model.

Who it’s for: Those who don’t want to mess with buying commuter bike components. Those who like a comfortable and sturdy, yet efficient ride and will make use of all the utility features. Those with a relatively short commute.

Who it’s not for: Those who do enjoy building their own bike. At just under 32 pounds, the weight is reasonable with all the attached accessories, yet could still be a consideration for those who take their bikes on public transit or up and down stairs or if you have a particularly hilly commute.

See the full line of Breezer commuter bikes here. You can purchase the Breezer Uptown 8 at Commuter Bike Store for $849.99.

Electra Ticino 8D Commuter Bike

Electra Ticino 8D Commuter Bike

Known for their beach cruisers and Dutch-influenced style bikes, Electra has now designed a line of bikes based on the classic French constructeur touring bikes. Marrying retro styling with the latest components, the Ticino 8D features an aluminum frame with a steel lugged fork, 8 speed Shimano 2300 drivetrain with rapidfire shifters, a moustache handlebar, faux-leather saddle, and alloy fenders. You will need to add a rack if you carry things on your bike. The upright seated position allows for a cushy ride, while the 700c wheel size give it oomph. The Electra Ticino 8D got tentative praise from the Bike Snob, which is no easy feat, calling it “stable, yet reasonably quick” and light enough to carry up steps. The bike weighs about 25 pounds.

Who it’s for: Those who are clamoring for the retro look. Cyclists who prefer a more upright seated position and need a commuter bike that can still be lifted easily.

Who it’s not for: Those who prefer a modern looking bike. The slack geometry is not for cyclists who like a riding position similar to a road bike.

Check out the full line of Electra Ticino commuter bikes here, ranging in price from $500 to $2,000. The Electra Ticino 8D commuter bike sells at REI for $849.00.

Trek Belleville 2011 Commuter Bike

Trek Belleville 2011 Commuter Bike

Part of Trek’s urban eco-design line, the Belleville has been designed with an eye on the environmental impact of the bike through the birth, life, and after-life. The Belleville has attracted a lot of attention with it’s vintage look, steel frame and solid geometry. This bike is commuter ready with chainguard, dual racks, hub-powered front and rear lights, and fenders. It has 3 speeds with an internally-geared Shimano Nexus hub. Car Free in Philly has a good list of pros and cons on the Trek Belleville. It also comes in a true mixte style frame for the ladies.

Who it’s for: Those with commutes on the short side. Those who prefer a steel frame. Commuters who don’t need to lift the bike too much- it’s 40 pounds and who tend to haul a lot of stuff. Those who are looking for a commuter bike already equipped with all the bells and whistles.

Who it’s not for: If you live on the top floor. Those who have hills on their commute. Minimalists.

The MSRP for the Trek Belleville is $689.99. Check your local bike shop.

Novara Big Buzz Bike

Novara Big Buzz Commuter Bike

The Novara Big Buzz from REI is a hybrid style commuter bike merging mountain bike geometry with road bike tubing. It runs on a 9 speed Shimano Sram drivetrain with Sram twist shifters. The lightweight aluminum frame, 700c wheel size with puncture resistant Vittoria Randonneur tires, and disc brakes offer stability and maneuverability with the feel of a road bike. Though there aren’t many reviews on this bike, reviewers at REI have given it an average 4.4 star rating with it’s best uses for great handling as a commuter bike and the biggest complaint being too heavy.

Who it’s for: The budget-conscious- the Novara Big Buzz is currently on sale at REI for$450- though keep in mind the expense if you need to add a rack and/or lights. Those are looking for a commuter bike that rides more like a road bike and has simple components. Commuters who don’t need all the extras or want to add their own.

Who it’s not for: Those who like a more cushy ride. May not be comfortable for very long commutes.

You can get the Novara Big Buzz commuter bike on REI for a reduced price of $449.93.

Jamis Commuter 3 Bike

Jamis Commuter 3 Bike

Jamis makes a high quality and well-liked line of commuter bikes at an affordable price range of $390 to $800. The Jamis Commuter 3 bike features an aluminum frame, a Shimano Nexus 7 speed hub with revo-shift twist shifters, 700c wheel size, fenders, and full chain guard. Step up to the Commuter 4, pictured at the top of this post, to get the 8 speed with a rear rack and hub-powered headlight. Bicycling magazine gave the Jamis Commuter 1 a best for beginners thumbs up and the Commuter 3 is featured on Sheldon Brown’s website.

Who it’s for: Those who want a basic, dependable commuter bike without breaking the bank. At a not bad weight of 28 pounds, would be good for apartment dwellers.

Who it’s not for: Those who want the forgiveness of a steel frame.

The Jamis Commuter 3 bike sells for around $675.00. Check it out here.

Surly Cross Check Bike

Surly Cross Check Commuter Bike

Cyclocross bikes are a popular choice for hardcore commuters as they are designed to be fast, yet can take the abuse of rough off-road conditions. The Surly Cross Check is a do everything, versatile bike for everyday use. It can go from the commute to a weekend race. The steel frame absorbs the road chatter and provides stability for longer commutes. The Surly Cross Check features a Shimano Tiagra 9 speed drivetrain with bar end shifters, 700c wheel size, and cantilever brakes. Surly boasts the Fatties Fit Fine (FFF) clearance for fat tires and fender space. Springfield Cyclist has a good hands-on review.

Who it’s for: Those who want the versatility of a cyclocross bike for commuting. Bike lovers who want to customize their bike themselves according to their personal needs. Those who need the stability of a steel frame bike for longer commutes. Those who encounter hills on their commutes or use public transit.

Who it’s not for: Those who don’t want to “mess” with their bike or who don’t have a lot of money to spend on their ride.

Check out the full line of Surly bikes here. The Surly Cross Check sells on REI for $1049.00.

Other bike manufacturers you may want to check out for commuter specific bikes as well as cyclocross bikes are Fuji, Kona, and Masi.

High Speed Trains In The U.S.

With the high speed rail debate officially jumping the tracks into the political arena, American citizens are left to sort through the onslaught of bureaucratic bantering which so often leads to misinformation. The question that’s causing tempers to flare on both sides is whether the government should be funding high speed rail projects across the nation. Many believe that high speed rail is vital to the future of transportation in America.  Yet, all politics aside, is it even feasible now to consider that the U.S. could develop a framework of true and efficient high speed rail?

U.S. GG1 Electric Train From the 50s

At one time, we had the best passenger rail system in the world. But while other countries like France, England, Japan, and China were building their high speed rail lines, the U.S. placed priorities in the auto and airline industries. Now we’re left with crumbling train stations, watching while the price of gas inches toward that $5 a gallon mark. In an effort to play catch-up with those countries in Europe and Asia, the U.S. government is ready to build a high speed rail infrastructure. The question is not should we have high speed rail that rivals the rest of the world (because we should) but can we do it the right way so that the U.S. gets the most benefit out of this most efficient form of travel.

If We Build It, They Will Come

America 2050 Map

According to this report, 9 out of 10 Americans are open to long distance high speed train travel in the United States. America 2050, a national committee devoted to the renewing of the country’s deteriorating infrastructure, talks about an efficiency gap that exists in American transportation when it comes to traveling a distance of 200 to 400 miles. With trains being 3 times as energy efficient as cars and 6 times that of planes per passenger mile, high speed rail can more than fill that gap.

The map above shows the outcome of a recent study by America 2050 on the rail corridors that showed the highest potential for ridership. The darker the red lines, the higher score those routes received. We can also look to Amtrak to predict the success of ridership for high speed trains in the U.S. Last year marked a new annual ridership record for Amtrak, with every route carrying more passengers. And Amtrak doesn’t even operate efficiently. As pointed out in this article, not everyone has to use a community service in order to benefit from it.

Dedicated High Speed Train Tracks: The Key To Efficient Train Travel

Freight Locomotive Assisting Amtrak

For a high speed train to run most efficiently it needs its’ own track. Many current governmental high speed rail projects are calling for trains to run on the already existing network of tracks owned and operated by the nation’s freight railroads. Not only would this cause a slow down of freight trains since they’d have to give the right of way to high speed trains, but the safety issues involved would be unparalleled. Of course the freight railroads aren’t psyched about the idea and are preparing to derail the plans before they get started as explained in this WSJ article. The U.S. has the largest and most successful freight rail system in the world. It would be detrimental to jeopardize this industry in an attempt to get another one up and running due to time and money restraints.

Yet another problem in running on existing track would be the fact that this would not be true high speed rail.  Under current rules set forth by the Federal Railroad Administration, trains cannot exceed 89 mph. Even if the Surface Transportation Board, who overlook the nation’s railways, is willing to raise the maximum train speeds, the freight railroads still have the right to set their own limitations and CSX has already said they won’t allow passenger trains to travel over 90 mph on their tracks. Not exactly the high speed bullet trains we’re used to hearing about in France and China that exceed speeds of 220 mph. The entire design and structure of a high speed train would have to meet guidelines set forth by the FRA in order to run on the same track with a freight train as shown in the above picture where an Amtrak engine needed assistance from a freight engine. Also railroad crossings are designed to safely handle freight trains that typically only run at 50-60 mph.

France's TGV

Anyone who has ever ridden the TGV in France will tell you that it is a smooth and comfortable ride. This is because the train runs on smooth welded track that sits on a concrete base rather than wooden rail ties. According to French rail executive, Denis Doute, who is interested in investing in high speed rail in Texas, the operating costs of a true high speed rail line “are only slightly higher than that of a conventional rail line“. Doute advises the U.S. to have the highest aspirations when it comes to train speed. After all, we already accomplished the 100 mph electric train service back in the 40s and 50s. As he states, “It makes no sense to build rail lines that don’t do better than that”. It should also be noted that there has never been a fatality on a French or Japanese high speed train. All of these issues point to the need of dedicated high speed track to run these trains in the efficient way they are meant to operate.

High Speed Rail In California

Click here to view the embedded video.

The California High-Speed Rail Authority may be on the right track, so to speak, in creating the nation’s first true high speed rail line. It will run on 800 miles of electrified track with speeds up to 220 mph and will be emissions free. Though still in the planning stages, the project is on a schedule to be completed by 2030. The plan involves connecting Los Angeles to San Francisco by building new track, but also by using some existing track along the way. This is where costs could get exorbitant as developers attempt to reach agreements with the freight railroads and may even be forced to purchase land due to eminent domain. However, the California High-Speed Rail Authority is committed to seeking guidance from experienced developers of high speed rail.

For more on high speed rail in California click here.

For more on high speed rail projects across the U.S. see here.

The past year has seen an abundance of bike manufacturers entering into the electric bike arena with slick, lightweight and powerful bikes. Despite misconceptions, electric bikes allow commuters to increase their range safely and arrive to the office smelling fresh, while still getting exercise (yes, you still have to pedal an electric bike) and reducing their carbon footprint. They also continually beat cars in commuter races. An efficient electric bike may be just the push one needs to make the decision to give up the car and commute by bike. Electric bikes are also efficient for running errands, towing things (like kids), and for the elderly or for those with physical ailments. It can be difficult to navigate your way through all the options and styles available in an electric bike so we’ve done it for you. By studying forums and sites such as NYCeWheels, A to B Magazine, BikeForums.net, and Electric Bike Report, we’ve come up with a list of the best electric bikes for 2011.

What To Look For In An Electric Bike

The choice of an electric bike is quite personal, depending upon budget and the intended use. In it’s simplest definition an electric bike is a basic traditional bike with 3 things added to it: a motor, a battery, and a controller that administers the power. There are 2 different types of controllers: throttle and pedal-assist. The throttle-based system will give you the option to ride without pedaling. The pedal-assist is activated by pedaling, but you can control the level of assistance you get through a control panel on the handlebar. Some people find the pedal-assist more simple to use and more true to being a bicycle, while others prefer the throttle and like the idea of having moments where you don’t have to pedal. The best advice is to try each one out at your local bike shop to see which type you prefer.

When it comes to price the thing to keep in perspective is what you’ll be using it for. If you’re looking for an efficient commuter, then in comparison to a car, an electric bike is a bargain, not to mention all you’ll save in gas. If you’re looking for something strictly for recreation, then cost may be more of a consideration. It is also suggested that you purchase a high quality lock or three if you’ll be leaving it out and about and if the battery is removable bring it with you though some come with their own battery locks.

Kalkhoff Electric Bikes

Kalkhoff Pro Connect Sport 300

Made in Germany, Kalkhoff Bikes are perhaps the Mercedes of electric bikes. Kalkhoff has been providing European cyclists with high quality bikes for years and now they are available in the U.S.  NYCeWheels says the Pro Connect is “one of the most efficient electric bikes on the market”. Kalkhoff uses the Panasonic Pedelec brushless motor, the highest rated electric motor currently available. A to B gives the Kalkhoff 5 out of 5 stars. The integrated maintenance-free motor offers 3 levels of pedal-activated assistance using 300 watts with a top speed of 25 mph. At the moderate setting, you can expect to get 50 miles from a full charge. Bicycle purists like that the Kalkhoff looks like a regular bike. With a lightweight aluminum frame, Shimano components, and Continental puncture-resistant tires, the motor isn’t the only thing that’s top notch about this bike. Other features include a hydraulic braking system, on-board computer with speedometer, and front and rear integrated lighting.

So what’s not to like about the Kalkhoff? How about the price. A true case of if you want the best, you’re going to pay for it, the Pro Connect Sport 300 is listed at $3,899.00. However, this is their most expensive model. Other e-bikes in the Kalkhoff fleet go for around the $3,000 mark and the Pro Connect Sport 250 2009 model is currently on sale for $2,899.00. Kalhoff does offer free shipping and a 2 year warranty.

Check out the Kalkhoff line of electric bikes here or for information on trying one out click here.

eZee LiV Electric Bike

eZee LiV Electric Bike

The eZee LiV offers an affordable, yet reliable option for a lightweight, simple to operate electric bike. It has a range of 15-30 miles and a top speed of 20 mph. With a 200 watt brushed motor, it may not be the most powerful machine on the electric bike block, but it beats the others at a price of $1,199.00. NYCeWheels recommends this bike as best value for commuting or recreational riding if you have moderate hills and don’t plan on pulling anything or carrying a large load. eZee has a full line of throttle activated electric bikes priced under $2,000. The eZee LiV uses more basic components than the other bikes in the eZee line. It features a 3 speed drivetrain, front and rear lights, and mudguards.

Check out eZee bikes here.

2011 Kona Electric Ute Cargo Bike

2011 Kona Electric Ute Cargo Bike

Kona has added a 250 watt Pedelec motor with a 24 volt Samsung Lihium-Ion battery to it’s popular Ute cargo bike offering up one of the first electric-assisted bikes for utilitarian use. This would make a great bike for long distance touring, those who want to ditch the car to run errands, or family bike rides. In full power mode the Kona Electric Ute supplies an 18 mile range, 35 miles in normal mode, and 62 miles in economy mode.  It offers quality Shimano components, an acacia wood deck, Kona pannier bag, fenders, and a lifetime warranty on the aluminum butted frame. For a detailed review see MyCargoBike.net where criticisms include the use of a front v-brake as opposed to a disc brake and a small, but continuous electric whine of the motor. Pros included a well-proportioned, lightweight design and a conveniently integrated battery that can be removed for charging. At $2599.00, the Kona Electric Ute is considered to be competitively priced for an electric cargo bike.

For a Kona dealer near you, click here.

Schwinn Electric Bike: Tailwind

Schwinn Electric Bike: Tailwind

The Schwinn Tailwind flaunts a feature that the other electric bikes don’t have: the Toshiba battery designed specifically for this bike can recharge in an astounding 30 minutes as opposed to the usual 4 hour recharging time. The 6 pound battery can be removed easily from the rear fender rack and features the latest in lithium polymer technology. According to NYCeWheels, the lithium polymer Schwinn battery pack has about 1.4 times the power to weight ratio than lithium ion, discharges at a more consistent voltage, and has a longer life expectancy. It offers a range of 25-30 miles, depending on riding style and conditions.

The sophisticated brushless motor is designed to assist the rider, not take over. The motor kicks in after pedaling begins and shuts off when the brake is applied. Schwinn designed the Tailwind to offer a longer range for the traditional bike rider, yet still remaining true to the classic bike design. It does not offer regenerative braking, but it may be the perfect transition for those who prefer the old school look as opposed to the futuristic appearance of some of the other electric bikes. The Schwinn Tailwind MSRP is $2,679.00.

For a Schwinn dealer near you, click here.

Sanyo Eneloop Electric Bike

Sanyo Eneloop Electric Bike

An entry from last year’s list, the Sanyo Eneloop continues to be a solid entry for a high-tech electric bike. Eneloop means that the regenerative brake system recharges the battery, so pressing on the rear brake lever actually generates energy. The 250 watt brushless motor supports 2 modes of pedal-assist plus an auto mode. Standard mode output matches the energy output of the rider. Power-Up mode doubles the energy output (for hills), while the auto mode automatically switches between these 2 modes depending upon riding conditions. The Sanyo Eneloop may appeal more to the female commuter because it’s, well… pretty. Similar to the styling of a Dutch city bike, the step-through frame makes it easy to get on and off. Range is 17-35 miles depending on the mode. Customer reviews on the Sanyo Eneloop are glowing, raving that the bike is quiet, smooth, and doesn’t feel like you’re riding an electric bike. Check out NYCeWheel’s review here.

The Sanyo Eneloop currently sells on Amazon for $1,499.99.

Dahon Boost Folding Electric Bike

Dahon Boost Folding Electric Bike

For commuters who need to lug their bikes up stairs or maneuver it onto public transportation, a folding electric bike such as the Dahon Boost would be a good choice. It offers all of the advantages of an electric-assisted bike at a weight of only 43 pounds. Dahon is a leader in high quality folding bikes. The Boost folds down to the same size as their 20″ folding bike in 15 seconds. The 250 watt brushless motor offers up 3 pedal-assist modes. Features an integrated rear rack, front and rear lighting, and a control panel on the handlebar. It can go about 30 miles on a charge. With a step-through frame and adjustable seat and handlebars, this bike serves as a versatile commuter bike.

The Dahon Boost sells for $2,499.00 on Amazon or at NYCeWheels.

Trek Valencia

Trek Valencia

Trek has thrown it’s hat into the electric bike ring and maybe just the catalyst to bring the lycra set and the commuters together. They’ve turned their standard Valencia commuter bike into a electric assist hybrid with a 350 watt brushless BionX rear hub motor and regenerative braking. Trek has added electric motors to some of their other bikes as well, such as the FX and the Transport- you’ll notice a plus sign next to these to indicate the hybrid model.  Four different pedal-assist modes vary from 25% assistance to 200% assistance. In regenerative mode, you can add on average a 10% increase in battery capacity. There aren’t many reviews out yet on the Trek e-bikes, but you can read specs about them here and some first impressions by users at bike forums here.

A2B Electric Bikes by Ultra Motor

A2B Metro

Don’t be fooled by it’s size. The A2B electric bikes by Ultra Motor pack a powerful punch with a 500 watt motor, 7 speeds, and high torque for hill climbing. Treehugger says it has “the heart of a bicycle and the soul of a scooter”. You can read their full review here. The lithium-ion battery is fully integrated into the downtube. The range is 20 miles on a single charge, but that can be extended to 40 miles with the purchase of an optional second battery. Top speed is 20 mph. The throttle is on the handlebar, meaning you can pedal or not. It does weigh in at a hefty 72 pounds so it may be better for short commutes, recreational fun or a cool option for college students to get around campus. The A2B Metro sells for around $2,700.00.

NYCeWheels is an authorized dealer or you can find a dealer near you here.

IZip Metro

2011 IZip Metro Electric Bike

Now wouldn’t this be fun to zip down to the grocery store? It features a 500 watt brushless hub motor and lithium-ion battery with a top speed of 20 mph and a range of 20-35 miles. It uses both pedal-assist and throttle power and weighs in at 55 pounds. The IZip Metro retails for $2,299.00.

Other Electric Bike Manufacturers We Like:

Ohm Cycles- pictured at the beginning of this article, Ohm Cycles is a Canadian company that makes high end electric bikes.

Giant- Giant made the ever classic Lafree electric bike, which has since been discontinued, but they continue to make the Twist Freedom and Twist Express.

EcoBike- Using both a pedal-assist and manual throttle, the EcoBike is one of the easiest electric bikes to operate. They offer 3 models around the $1,500 range.

You can also purchase electric conversion kits, which is especially helpful if you already have a bike that you’re comfortable with. The BionX conversion kit is considered to be the highest in quality and can be purchased at NYCeWheels. We also like AmpedBikes, which you can read about in this post.

nPower PEG

The new nPower PEG (personal energy generator) by Tremont Electric wowed reviewers at the 2011 CES convention. This back-up hybrid charger allows you to keep your cell phone, iPod, or other hand-held device working while you’re on the go. By harnessing the kinetic energy that you produce through movement, then converting it into accessible power, the nPower PEG allows you to be the manufacturer of your own renewable energy. The nPower PEG is marketed for those with an active lifestyle: commuters, cyclists, college students, backpackers, emergency responders, and exercise enthusiasts.

nPower PEG On The Go

The nPower PEG uses an internal battery that you can charge at home using a USB port. Then, when you head out for the day, the PEG will continuously top off the battery with your movement. If you stop moving and the battery loses power, you can give it a shake to get it going in an emergency. Compatible with USB 2.0 devices, the charger comes with a cable and adapter tips. Made of recyclable materials, it weighs 11 oz, is 1 inch in diameter and 9 inches tall, and is encased in titanium.

Some may find the $159.99 price tag a bit hefty, but the ability to charge your phone or MP3 from anywhere is appealing. Currently, the nPower PEG is back-ordered, but you can get your order in now on the nPower PEG website. Soon to come is an nPower leg band which holds the charger on your leg for cycling or for use at the gym.

Tremont Electric is a green company with plans to take the technology of nPower even further with large scale kinetic energy generators and wave energy converters. They are committed to both the global environment as well as their own local economy. Located in Cleveland, Ohio, 90% of the components used to make the nPower PEG come from the state of Ohio.

Artist Rendering of Portland's Gibbs Street Pedestrian Bridge

Portland, Oregon continues to set the standard of being a bike and pedestrian friendly city by building a 700 foot bridge over Interstate 5 that will allow users to travel from the Lair Hill neighborhood to the South Waterfront District. The Gibbs Street bridge is only for walking and bike riding. Portland bike commuters will benefit from taxes paid by car owners, as, according to Bike Portland, a percentage of the cost of the bridge will come from gas tax and new vehicle registration.

Here’s a video of how the bridge will look:

Click here to view the embedded video.

Building is scheduled to begin this month and is expected to be finished in one year. The bridge will be alongside the aerial tram, just one segment of Portland’s cutting edge public transportation system which also includes MAX Light Rail. To reduce cost, planners went with a steel box girder style bridge. The structure will include stairways and an elevator. The plan also includes improvements to pedestrian crosswalks around the area.

Photo Simulation of Portland's Gibbs Street Pedestrian Bridge

Pedestrian bridges show a continued commitment by that of the city to maintain safe and convenient alternatives to car travel. It also shows a dedication to supporting citizens in leading a healthy lifestyle.

You can read more about the project at Gibbs Bridge.org and more photos here.

Electric Cars Making A Comeback in 2011

2011 is being heralded by auto industry insiders as the “year of the electric car”. Though we here at Metaefficient endorse a life free of dependency upon cars, 100% electric vehicles are certainly more fuel efficient than internal combustion vehicles and may be on their way to becoming user-friendly as well.

For 2011 consumers interested in electric vehicles will have an array of options to choose from.Currently, the biggest news makers are Nissan with its’ 100% electric powered Leaf and Chevrolet with the Volt, while other major car companies have electric vehicles in development. Since sales of hybrid cars have increased while new car sales overall has decreased, manufacturers are confident that people are ready to embrace electric vehicles. Forecast predictions are optimistic. Executive Vice President of Nissan, Carlos Tavares, anticipates that “electric vehicles will account for 10 percent of all cars sold globally by 2020″. Though with the cost of an electric car still hovering above the $30,000 mark, other industry experts disagree. Here’s an overview of what’s available and what to look for in the coming year.

2011 Nissan Leaf

2011 Nissan Leaf

The 2011 Nissan Leaf launches the official beginning to mass market production of a 100% electric powered vehicle. Powered by an 80 kilowatt electric motor using a 24 kWh lithium-ion battery, the Nissan Leaf boasts swift acceleration with an ultra-quiet cabin and speeds up to 90 mph. On a full charge, the Leaf has a range of 62-138 miles depending upon driving conditions. The EPA rating on the Leaf is 106 mpg city, 92 mpg highway, and 99 mpg combined with an estimated driving range of 73 miles. Recharging the battery at home will take around 4-8 hours. A commercial charge station can charge it in 30 minutes. The standard navigation system will display charging stations available along your route. Nissan says the average life of the battery is 5-10 years depending on usage. With the $7,500 federal tax savings applied, the cost of the Nissan Leaf comes down from the MSRP price of $32,780 to $25,280.

2011 Chevrolet Volt

2011 Chevrolet Volt

Though technically a hybrid, the 2011 Chevrolet Volt is being included in the electric vehicle category because it is able to operate in an electric-only mode. After traveling about 40 miles on a 111 kilowatt, 149 horsepower electric motor, the onboard gasoline powered generator kicks in to supply the electricity needed to travel another 300 miles. The most advance hybrid vehicle, the 2011 Chevrolet Volt has been named by Motor Trend magazine as the car of the year. Edmunds states it may be the most fuel efficient car on the market. The EPA rating on the Volt is 93 mpg equivalent using the all electric mode and 37 mpg when the gas is on. What you save in fuel economy though will be paid for at the dealership. The MSRP on the 2011 Chevy Volt is $40,280. Apply the federal tax credit and you’ll still be looking at a sticker price of at least $33,000. Also, the lithium-ion battery can only be charged at home.

2011 Tesla Roadster

2011 Tesla Roadster

So maybe you don’t have an extra 100k lying around and probably you’re name isn’t George Clooney, but there’s no denying the fact the 2011 Tesla Roadster sends a lightning bolt of sexy into owning an electric vehicle. With 288 horsepower, the carbon fiber Roadster reaches 60 mph in 3.7 seconds with a top speed of 125 mph. It can go for 245 miles on a full charge. A 2011 Tesla Roadster will set you back $109,000. But as Tesla boasts unrivaled performance and the industry’s best battery, we can only hope that the advanced engineering of Tesla will trickle down to other car companies.

Still to Come in 2011

Ford Focus eV

Ford is set to unveil its’ electric version of the Ford Focus at the 2011 Consumer Electronics Show. The car pictured has been featured on the Tonight Show with Jay Leno’s “Green Car Challenge”. Ford is set to release an estimated 5,000 lithium-ion battery-powered vehicles over the next couple years with an estimated range of 100 miles. BYD Auto has a line of electric vehicles manufactured in China and backed by investor, Warren Buffet. They are set to debut an all electric crossover and a plug-in hybrid SUV at the 2011 Detroit Auto show, though they may face obstacles breaking through the made in China label with U.S. consumers.

Toyota is set to release a plug-in hybrid version of the Prius in 2012. It will work similarly to the Chevy Volt, but is anticipated to cost as much as $10,000 less at a cost of $29,900 before tax incentives. Mitsubishi could beat Toyota to the under $30,000 price point though as it plans to start selling the 2012 Mitsubishi i in the U.S. beginning fall 2011. The Mitsubishi i is currently the best selling electric car in Japan and the U.S. version will be more powerful with an average 85 mile range. Honda will enter the green car price war with the electric version of the Honda Fit in 2012, also expected, perhaps optimistically, to be priced under $30,000.

Bottom line: the electric vehicle industry is knocking on the door to tomorrow, but to gain entry the cost to consumers may need to come down by developing even more efficient battery technology or by embracing the battery switching ingenuity of Better Place to appeal to a larger market. Should be interesting to watch as the auto industry battles for the electric vehicle customer. In the meantime, if you’re not ready to take the EV plunge, then you can always take the train.

Better Place Shows Electric Taxis Working in the Real World

Shai Agassi, founder and CEO of Better Place, has a vision — a vision for a world free of oil dependency. Mr. Agassi, who is well on his way to making this vision a reality, has what he believes is the solution for making electric vehicles efficient and affordable. He theorizes that the only way to take electric vehicles into mainstream society is to eliminate the inconvenience factor, in this case, the battery. Enter Better Place, which is already underway in Israel and Denmark. The Better Place plan is to build an infrastructure of battery charging and switch stations. What if, instead of having to plug in your car for a lengthy amount of time, you could pull into a battery exchange station and have a fully charged battery placed in your vehicle in the tenth of the time that it takes to fill up at the gas station, and without even getting out of the car?

Electric Taxis In Action

In much the same way that a cell phone company provides minutes, Better Place would sell miles to their customers. A Better Place consumer would purchase a monthly mileage package that would include charging and use of the battery switching stations. Shai Agassi tells us that this system would bring the cost of an electric vehicle down from the hard to grasp $30,000 mark to the more reasonable $15,000 price point, thus reaching a larger market and moving us closer to an oil-free lifestyle.

2011 Renault Fluence Z.E.

By partnering with Renault-Nissan, Better Place has already put the system to the test with the successful Tokyo Electric Taxi Project. Over 3,000 passengers have used the electric taxis traveling over 40,000 kilometers. Project data states that the taxi drivers went through the battery switching stations 2,122 times with the average switch time lasting 59.1 seconds. Later this year, Better Place will be delivering 115,000 Renault Fluence Z.E. electric sedans to customers in Israel and Denmark with plans to build over 100,000 EV charging stations and 100 (to start) battery exchange stations for each country.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Better Place is also working with leading battery manufacturers to provide the most reliable and up-to-date Lithium-ion batteries to place in their EVs. Shai Agassi points out that battery technology has made leaps and bounds over the past few years with considerably more storage capacity and twice the power capability, which improves the range and performance of EVs. Better Place is committed to environmentally safe practices by using recyclable batteries and renewable energy sources to power their charging stations. It will still be some time before residents in North America can pull into their local Better Place service station, but some will get the opportunity soon. Over the next 3 years, the Electric Taxi Project will unfold in the San Francisco Bay area with 4 battery exchange stations to support the electric taxi fleet. Hawaii is also on the list to begin building a foundation of Better Place charge stations starting in early 2011.

Minneapolis Light Rail- Hiawatha

Light rail is a type of electric railway that runs on right-of-way railroad tracks or on tracks in city streets. Using their own lanes and able to go anywhere, light rail cars mix well in urban settings by not getting caught up in traffic congestion. Though the United States operates the largest and most efficient freight railway system in the world, we have failed when it comes to passenger rail. Europe has surpassed North America in their expansion of electric railways which includes high speed rail and light rail. American cities on the other hand have been designed around our love of the automobile causing urban sprawl and a societal dependency upon car travel. However, many city planners and tax payers are now calling for a public transit renaissance to reduce sprawl, stimulate urban development, and provide commuters with a transportation alternative that’s convenient, fun, and helps reduce their carbon footprint. There are currently 31 U.S. cities with an existing or under construction light rail system and many more cities have light rail in the planning stages. In order for the U.S. to stay competitive with the rest of the world, we must continue this trend in rail travel and the following reasons show why.

Reason #1: Environment

DART- Dallas Light Rail

Light Rail systems run on electricity that can be powered by renewable energy sources: wind, solar, and hydro. Since there is no pollution from a tailpipe, even operating on coal generated electricity, light rail produces considerably less greenhouse emissions per passenger mile than diesel buses. A car’s energy output is approximately 6.350 BTU’s per passenger mile, while light rail uses about 1,150 BTU’s of energy (high-speed rail uses 900). This makes electric rail systems 6 times more efficient than cars. Additionally, light rail transports people more efficiently by yielding a larger rider capacity.

But do people really give up their cars to ride the rails? Absolutely. Evidenced in cities such as Denver, Dallas and Atlanta, light rail increases public transit ridership thereby reducing the dependency on cars and buses. Research shows that light rail attracts more riders than other forms of public transit such as buses. Light rail is quiet, smooth, and more easily accessible and reliable. Not to mention there is a certain romanticism involved in street cars that is non-existent on a bus line. Portland’s light rail system boasts that 75% of their riders own automobiles. Light rail doesn’t just attract commuters, casual riders take advantage of the service as well for such things as shopping and sporting events. With less cars on the road, the overall health of the city would improve. Houston, who made the decision years ago to allocate money towards highway development while Dallas was building DART, has fought with Los Angeles over the years as America’s smoggiest city. Houston has since switched gears to work on their Metro system. Light rail also has the ability to support bike commuters, pedestrians, and disabled riders with convenient street-level boarding.

All of these environmental benefits of light rail combine to reduce our oil consumption and our dependency on foreign oil. Europe, who has been leading the way in both high speed rail and urban light rail systems, consumes less energy than the U.S. This country is responsible for 25% of the worldwide energy consumption with 5% of the global population. According to this report, if Americans used public transportation at the same rate as Europeans, the United States would reduce its dependence on imported oil by more than 40 percent or nearly the amount of oil we import from Saudi Arabia each year.

Reason #2: Development

Streetcar in Portland's Pearl District

Light rail is more than just an eco-friendly way of getting from one place to another. It serves as a pillar around which city neighborhoods and businesses can be developed for sustainable growth. Just as riders are attracted to light rail, so are investors. Before the city of Portland, Oregon began plans for its’ light rail system, MAX, retail and office vacancy rates were on the rise. According to TriMet,  more than $6 billion in development has transpired since the decision to build in 1978. Once an industrial wasteland, Portland’s Pearl District has seen 4.6 million square feet of commercial development with 7,200 new housing units between 1997 and 2005. Ridership on both MAX and the Portland Streetcar system has steadily increased over the past 10 years.

Since the building of DART began in 1996, Dallas has benefited from a 39-53% rise in property values along the rail line. Even in the current economic downfall, investors are spending money in the Dallas area. Greg Biggs, executive director of the real estate firm Cushman Wakefield, credits the interest of development in North Texas’ Telecom Corridor to DART stating that “there seems to be a momentum factor going on here“.

One of the nation’s most flourishing urban neighborhoods is Denver’s LoDo district. Dedicatied to revitalizing and sustaining this historic area of Denver, city planners see the RTD light rail system as the backbone for growth. The building of a light rail system demonstrates an abiding commitment to community services and development, which is exactly what investors want to see.

Reason #3: Economic Sustainablility

Denver Light Rail- RTD

A 2007 article at Forbes named America’s top 5 cities with the most expensive commutes. Houston came it at number 1 with the average commuter spending “20.9% of household costs on getting to work”. Following in Houston’s footsteps were Cleveland, Detroit, Tampa, Kansas City, and Cincinnati. What did all of these cities have in common at the time of the study? All had a small or non-existent rail system, while four out of the 5 cheapest cities for commuters had an extensive rail network. Some of these cities now have light rail in development, including Cleveland and Houston after witnessing the economic success of Dallas.

Though there is much debate over the economic benefits of light rail, with many false claims, studies prove that light rail stimulates the local economy and reduces sprawl.  Every dollar spent on public transit projects generates 6 dollars in the local economy, according to the American Public Transport Association. With the increase in development comes a surge in jobs thus providing the local government a 4-16% gain in tax revenue.

With oil prices rising and light rail cars able to move people more efficiently, the operating cost of light rail compared to a bus line is considerably cheaper. Cities that rely on buses alone for public transit spend more money per passenger than cities with light rail. High ridership numbers allow for lower costs and higher efficiency. Notably, light rail cars have a life expectancy of 30-35 years compared to the 12 year life expectancy of a city bus. But there’s no need to rely on studies alone. Just take a visit to one of the many cities where light rail has revitalized the urban community: Denver, St. Louis, Phoenix, Minneapolis, Dallas, Portland. While you’re there, I know a great way you can get around town.

Wool Cycling Wear For Bike Commuters

Does the idea of making that chilly morning commute dressed in wool leave you scratching like a sheep in need of a haircut?  Think again. Gone are the days of itchy wool clothing. Merino wool is not only durable, but soft and comfortable. It’s the best natural material for wicking moisture away from the skin and keeping your body temperature regulated during the cold months and is cooler than cotton if the temperatures start to rise. With those unpredictable temperatures right around the corner, here are some great products to keep you prepared and looking good.

Wool Arm Warmers from Ibex

Ibex Wool Arm Warmer

Ibex is an outdoor clothing company specializing in top-quality Merino wool. Based out of Vermont, the founder and employees bike to work themselves, so they know how to keep warm. Made of 83.6% New Zealand Merino Wool and nylon and spandex for durability and snug fit, these arm warmers are the perfect cold weather accessory. The best part is when you get to your destination, you can just slip them off and roll them up in your bag. Made in USA. Machine washable. Comes in S, M, and L.

The Ibex Wool Arm Warmer is sold  on Amazon for $25-40.

The Merino Wool Cycling Cap from Pace Sportswear

Pace Wool Cycling Cap

Pace Sportswear, an innovator in cycling caps, has provided products for bike shops and racing teams, including Campagnolo.  This version of their popular cycling cap is not only all-natural, but is also made with a 5-panel dome to cover both your neck and ears. Keeps you warm in the winter and cool in the summer, while absorbing moisture to ensure you stay dry and odor-free. The color scheme makes for a retro style and is also reversible. Made in USA. Machine washable. One size fits all.

Sells for $45.00 at Amazon.

The Ibex Men‘s Commuter Shak Full Zipping Jersey

Ibex Commuter Shak Full Zipping Jersey

Another selection from Ibex, this cycling jacket, though a bit more pricey than most, will ultimately be a better investment for the eco-conscious commuter. Most of the wool cycling jackets on the market are less than 50% wool, but the Ibex is 100% Merino wool from New Zealand. This one also comes with two zippered back pockets convenient for holding your cell phone or keys.  Reviews on the Ibex website came in at a 4.7 out of 5. Made in USA. Machine washable. Also comes in black, red, and lava brown. Men’s sizes S, M, L, XL, and XXL.

The Ibex Commuter Shak Full Zipping Jersey sells for $175.00 at Ibex.

Cycling Gloves by Hincapie Sportswear

Hincapie Cycling Gloves

The Hincapie Family including George Hincapie, Tour de France cyclist, got into the cycling clothing business by launching Hincapie Sportswear back in 2002. Their clothing and accessory line has received rave reviews. These Merino wool gloves offer non-skid silicone grippers and a stretch to fit design. They will leave you itch-free as you grip those handlebars on your way to work. Made in USA. One size fits all.

The Hincapie Cycling Gloves retail for $24.99.

SmartWool PHD Cycling Light Mini Socks

SmartWool PHD Cycling Light Mini Socks

Finally, don’t neglect your feet. SmartWool, a company started by some New England Ski instructors, makes some of the best reviewed socks for outdoor wear.  Again, those New Englanders know about meshing warmth with comfort. They wanted the warmth of a wool sock without the itchy foot syndrome. They’ve got every kind of wool sock you could want, from the funky stripes to the more subdued colors if you’re off to work. These particular ones offer a 4-degree fit system to ensure a secure grip around ankles and prevent bunching. Also features mesh zones for ventilation and cushioning for shock and abrasion. Unisex. Made in USA. Machine washable.

The SmartWool PHD Cycling Light Mini Sock can be found at Amazon for $15.95.

Folding bikes are particularly efficient when used in conjunction with public transit. Unlike regular bikes, they can be taken easily on buses, trains or ferries. In fact, some transit systems will only allow folding bikes to be taken on board. I recently reviewed the Best Folding Bikes of 2008. An efficient addition to these bikes is an electric motor. For a little extra weight, you get the benefit of going up hills easily, and this is often very important to commuters who do not work up a sweat before getting into work. Let’s take a look at one of the better folding electric bikes out there: a Dahon Mu P3 custom-fitted with a BionX electric assist motor.

This bike is called Dahon Conversion and it’s sold by NYCEWheels for $1899 (see photos above and below).

The Dahon Conversion weighs just 42 pounds. It can be folded in less than 20 seconds into a size roughly 13″ x 25″ x 30″.

The folding of the bicycle requires the loosening of 4 clasps and the bicycle collapses to its folded size without removing any of the wheels or adjusting any of the gears. The wires are out of the way and do not obstruct the folding and require no special attention in the folding process.

The bike has a range of 20-30 miles. This version of the bike uses a 250 watt motor and NiMH batteries. If you spend more, you can get a 350 watt motor (add $230) or lithium-ion batteries (add $300).

The BionX standard system includes a control console, a battery and a motor. The control console includes a multi-functional odometer, four assistance levels, four generative settings as well as a battery charge indicator.

You can also create your own folding electric bike. For example, to recreate the Dahon Conversion you could get the Dahon Mu P3 (about $590) and install the BionX motor system yourself (kits start at $1100). Of course you can also use other folding bikes and electric assist kits. Some kits are available for less than $500, however I can’t vouch for their quality. There’s also DVD that will tell you how to fit your bike with an electric motor — its a bit hokey but it shows the basic method of installation.

Another folding electric bike is the iZip EZgo. This inexpensive bike by Currie Technologies, will help you  pedal for 18 to 25 miles with speeds up to 18 mph. The bike weighs 53 pounds, including the motor. The EZgo has a simple twist throttle with a battery gauge. The wheels are 16″ heavy duty alloy with stainless steel spokes. The bike also features an integrated rear carrier to take some items on the go with you.

It’s available from Amazon for $649. The bike’s home page is here.

Biontague is a folding electric mountain bike, created by Electric Cyclery. It’s a Montague Swiss Bike LX folding mountain bike fitted with a Bionx PL350 electric conversion kit. The Biontague bike offers speeds in the 20 MPH range, great hill climbing assistance, and a range of up to 60 miles on a 3-hour charge.

The Montague Swiss is a mountain bike that folds for easy transport and the whole thing weighs only 43.2 lbs. A 36-volt lithium-ion battery pack is mounted down low on the frame.

The price is $2425 from Electric Cyclery, plus $100 shipping in continental USA.