Even Texas Is Going Electric

Gas costs make 'golf carts' smart choices
By Nick McMaster,  Newser Staff
Posted Jul 31, 2008 1:08 PM CDT
Even Texas Is Going Electric
Journalists gather by electric vehicle Hyper Mini, foreground, and other cars at the opening ceremony of Nissan Motor Co.'s new Advanced Technology Center in Japan Tuesday, May 15, 2007.    (AP Photo/Katsumi Kasahara)

High gas prices are forcing Americans to seriously pursue other transportation options—even in Texas, the heart of oil country. Chrysler’s Global Electric Motorcar division, which sells tiny, utilitarian vehicles, has seen dealerships triple sales. The Wall Street Journal visits a Texas family that’s embraced the cost-efficiency of their 25-mph miniautos, which resemble golf carts.

"It makes so much sense for getting around," says Kris Peters. "We go everywhere in it." She and husband Peter make their short commutes in their two GEM cars. They say they don’t mind the inconveniences the vehicles pose for family outings or even the occasional time they’ve overestimated the charge and had to push a car home. (More electric vehicles stories.)

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