I finally did it. I turned my 14mpg Ford Explorer into a zero-emission electric scooter that costs less to run than my refrigerator!
It wasn't as easy as it sounds though. My old truck has served me well, carrying my camping gear, kids, dogs and other much-loved cargo across the country and back without uttering the least complaint. Whether bouncing up old logging roads in the Cascades or to the perfect Rocky Mountain trail head, my Explorer (and her trusty 4WD) has always been loyal. There are a lot of memories bound up in that car.
But living in Santa Barbara, there aren't that many logging roads to climb and not that many times when the ability to kick it into 4WD means the difference between making it or not.
It is always sunny here, and mostly dry. I live right downtown and rarely need to go anywhere more than a few miles away. So what do I need an SUV for? ---- Not enough.
So when I heard that the good people at Zoom Motors here in SB had opened an electric scooter business I was curious - and some internet research and a test drive were all the convincing I needed. And so (after passing the unexpectedly difficult motorcycle test at the good ole' DMV) I have now, as if by magic, transformed my faithful old truck into the perfect vehicle for my life in Santa Barbara. My scooter is quick, powerful and fun - and did I mention that it costs less to run than my refrigerator?
Anyway, if this sounds like a commercial, perhaps it is - or at least a testimonial. The fact is that it was not easy to make this leap, but now that I've done it I feel great. It feels good to have what I need, and nothing more - to use the energy I need, and nothing more. Or at least to take a big step in that direction.
And when the time comes that I need to move or haul something - or climb up a mountain on some beaten up old track - maybe we can trade vehicles for a couple days!
The scooter is a Zapino, made by Zap! You can check them out here:
http://www.zapworld.com/electric-vehicles/electric-scooters/zapino-electric-scooter
