The nation’s first operational, all-electric car share service launched in Golden, Colo. eThos Electric Car Share will provide the Golden and Denver-metro area with American-made, all-electric sedans (EVs) for short-term rental.
"We have more electrical outlets than gas pumps in the United States. An all-electric car share service is a logical next step for those looking to save money and reduce their carbon footprint," said Tim Prior, eThos Electric Car Share founder.
The first member, Julia Greenwald, a Golden resident, was able to sign up and take her first test drive during the grand opening. "I signed up because it's great to promote electric cars," she said. Nearly 100 people attended the grand opening and took test drives and several new members were signed up.
"Our fleet cars are zippy and reliable. We are happy with Coda's look and performance and believe Coloradans will be too," said Prior. The Coda is an all-electric four-door sedan made by California-based manufacturer Coda Automotive, with a drivetrain by Unique Motors (UQM) of Longmont, Colo.
Codas have a range of 125 miles on a single charge with an EPA rated 73 miles per gallon equivalent (MPGe), acceleration of 0-60 in 9 seconds and a top speed of 84 mph.
"Quiet is the new loud," said Prior. "I love to see a driver's face light up when they push on the accelerator for the first time." Codas are quiet, simple and energy efficient, making the transition from gas to electric seamless for those wary of EVs.
eThos will provide a transportation service powered completely on local energy and is investing in renewable energy sources, like solar and wind, to further offset their customers' driving footprint.
Rates for the car share service start at $7/hour and drop to $5/hour as members log rental hours. A Tesla Model S is also available for half-day rentals to qualified customers.
EVs first emerged in the 1800s and were popular from 1900 to 1910 before mass-production of gas cars. In 1996, General Motors created the EV1, the first mass-produced Electric Vehicle that could travel more than 70 miles on a single charge.
