I test-drove a first generation Honda Insight in c 2001, pretty uninspiring. Can't say I've been tempted by an EV since.
(Archive photo, the one I drove was a fairly fetching pale blue).
I remember getting out at SanFran after the usual 10 hour flight and going to the Hertz counter. They were pushing everyone like crazy to rent the exciting new Honda Insight, it would change your approach to travel in the future. I rather like Honda's cars generally so said yes. They did me a straight swap for my rental. I went down to find it plugged in. I went back upstairs and demanded my previous car. At this time SanFran was having rolling brown outs (the opposite of surges) and the idea of charging it as I had to go from Sausalito to Redwood City every day. Nope. Six months later they were trying the same with Chevy Volts. I nearly hit the counter assistant.
Alistair, I can imagine that during a stay in de USA with covering large distances a CBE car is more convenient and gives more ease of mind. However, for everyday use in this part of what you call the continent, there is a perfect infrastructure, better every year. Our EV made trips to Norway, Austria, Hamburg, Frankfurt, several Belgian destinations and recently the Loire area in France. With no pain or stress whatsoever. In contrary, yes, with comfort! Within the Netherlands you have chargers everywhere, already for many years. And you can start with a fully charged vehicle at home.
Today, I will fuel our Morgan and I am looking forward to 4 days of Morgan enjoyment in Zealand!
