Zero Emissions No Noise: ZENN Car

ZENN on National Public Radio’s “Marketplace” for May 20, 2008! Check out the broadcast here. The listener comments posted on the page are particularly fun!

You’ve seen them in the co-op’s parking lot, now schedule a test drive by calling 612-279-2467. Get a fact sheet on ZENN here; we’re looking forward to telling you more about this great green transportation option! Our new website, www.tczenncars.com, is up and running, with lots more great information about the Zero Emissions No Noise all-electric vehicle.

Linden Hills Co-op has joined with Cushman Motor Company to sell street legal, all-electric neighborhood cars from ZENN. ZENN (“zero emissions, no noise”) is an honest to goodness real car that produces no greenhouse gases. No gasoline, no oil changes, no muffler or exhaust system and no trips to the gas station necessary (unless you want to clean your windshield).

Paula Gilbertson, the co-op’s former general manager, was instrumental in developing the partnership with Cushman. “We had been looking into electric vehicles to reduce our environmental footprint. Most on the market today are glorified golf carts and did not appeal to us for year-round use. The ZENN is a real car that has been made in France for nine years. The electric motor is installed in Toronto and the finished product is shipped to the U.S.” Paula said.

The ZENN is 100% all-electric. An overnight charge, plugged into a regular household outlet, provide a range of up to 35 miles. The ZENN has a heater, lights, cup holders and the regular features you would expect in a standard automobile. ZENN is a two seat vehicle that is not equipped with air bags so it is safe to place a child in the front passenger seat. ZENN comes in three colors, with a base model SRP of $12,750 and LX for $14,700. Vehicles can be made-to-order or purchased from dealer stock.

The ZENN is a neighborhood electric vehicle (NEV). In Minnesota, NEVs can travel on streets with up to a 35 mph speed limit and must not travel more than 25 mph (statute 169.224). They work beautifully for neighborhood trips, which can account for over 50% of travel for the typical driver.

Steve Kobs, the manager of Linden Hills Natural Home, established the partnerships with Cushman. “Tim Commers is a great guy. His parents started the business over 50 years ago. Cushman now sells and services many brands of electric vehicles, mostly to commercial customers. When they actually got a ZENN in their lot, they rated it a “10” after they saw what it could do and how it was made.” Steve added.

ZENN electric vehicles will be displayed at the co-op, along with information sheets and information about test drives. Find out more or schedule a test drive by calling 612-279-2467.