Is nuclear energy as good for the environment as it is made out to be?

Japan is reeling under a looming nuclear catastrophe. The memories of Chernobyl disaster have come rushing back. And the million dollar question on everybody’s mind is- “Is nuclear energy as good as it is made out to be?” First, let’s see how nuclear energy is good and what prompted its rise after the Second World War.

Most of the nuclear reactors in Japan were set up in 1970, as is the case with most of the developed world. Although fuel prices were dirt cheap back then, the developed economies were wary of importing their energy needs, and they saw a solution in nuclear energy.

Nuclear energy is the single source of energy which is renewable, has minimal carbon emissions and can deliver more power than any other fuel available out there. Today, it drives 70% of France’s electricity needs and supplied Spain too. US and the UK too depend on it for their energy needs.

And the developing economies are making a rush for it, citing increasing energy requirements and its cost efficiency. Sure, nuclear energy can deliver all that is mentioned above. But what most of us fail to take into account is the effective disposal of the nuclear waste.

Nuclear waste, if not disposed off properly, can do more than just off-set the advantages of nuclear energy. It can cripple the human race for generations to come and cause irreversible damage to the atmosphere. Forget about the waste, what if a reactor goes out of control, likes the ones in Japan? The repercussions can be huge.

Now, the question to be asked is, whether nuclear energy is a worthwhile risk or a progression towards doomsday? The latter seems the more probable answer, considering the fact that most countries adopted nuclear energy as a war weapon. Of course, they disguised it in the advantages of the energy, but that’s what the real purpose is of nations adopting nuclear technology. As a publication very cleverly put it, “it is insurance in the guise of mutual funds”

Ask yourself- would you adopt green ways and urge the governments to look for greener technologies or live under the threat of a nuclear catastrophe every second of your life? 

Is the Earth Hour enough?

It began in 2007 in Australia, and ever since, it has caught on across the globe. But the question is, “Is switching of the lights for an hour every year good enough?” Keeping the current levels of global warming and environmental issues in mind, it surely does not seem like it.

“The Earth Hour movement has grown globally since then. But it has been called ineffective because it only happens once-a-year. While the sentiment is well-intended critics argue, the outcome might not be as effective as it could be if it was a more consistent, long-term solution”- http://flippies.com/adflipoff/earth-day-goes-mobile/

So, what are you doing beyond the Earth Hour to support the cause of our planet? Little things can make a huge difference. Things like using paper bags instead of plastic ones for shopping, reusing materials whenever you can and using a bucket and mug while bathing instead of the shower can make a huge difference.

The biggest concern today among us all is global warming, and the increasing number of vehicles on the road isn’t helping our cause. But abandoning vehicles is not the solution. Rather, adopting green technology is. The e-zipp is a small effort on our part in that direction.

The electric bike from our stable does not use petrol or diesel, runs on rechargeable batteries and causes zero emissions. We have made a concerted effort to give the people a green ride without compromising on the ride quality. And thankfully, our efforts have yielded results.

Having initiatives like Earth Hour is good, but it’s time we moved beyond the Earth Hour and adopted green ways in our everyday life.

It could be riding the e-zipp to work, switching off lights when not in use, refraining from using bottled water, using manual shavers rather than electric ones or anything else, it all counts. Just consider this- if each one of the 6 billion strong population of Earth took one green step each day, it would 6 billion steps in the right direction.

Let us know how you plan to move beyond the Earth Hour and which green ways you plan to adopt. We will be glad to publish your green story.

eZipp India most economical electric bike

The E-Zipp bike is an electrically powered two wheeler manufactured by VRLA Manufacturing Company. VRLA is an energy solutions ISO 9000:2008 certified company with manufacturing facilities in Himachal Pradesh, India. Founded in 2006, the company is focused on manufacturing electrical appliances and products. Noticing the Indian Government’s enthusiasm in promoting the vitality of a greener Earth at the Copenhagen Summit, VRLA was inspired to come up with their contribution. The E-Zipp was conceived. Two wheeler vehicles ranging from cycles to mopeds to scooters and motorcycles are the life blood of India’s transport ecology. With ever increasing concern for Global Warming and a Greener Earth and out of control fuel prices playing on their minds, VRLA introduced an electric bike christened E-Zipp. Running on an electric motor that can be plugged in and charged at any 120-240 Volt AC electrical outlet, this vehicle drastically cuts the cost per kilometer to Rs. 0.20 which on an average is about three times cheaper than a regular two wheeler running on a petrol engine. Weighing about 70 kilograms, this 250 Watt electric bike can run up to 40 kilometers per charge. The battery life cycle is 350 cycles or one year, whichever is earlier. The battery has been specially designed for the bike and the company offers a six month warranty on the battery. The bike has a battery level indicator and charging at 40% is recommended. There are no ill effects of overcharging the vehicle. Each charge takes up close to 1.5 units of electricity . The electric motor powers the vehicle drawing energy from the battery through a controller. This technology eliminates the need for many of the mechanics and components of a conventional two wheeler, making E-Zipp extremely efficient and easy to maintain. The vehicle’s top speed is a modest 25 kilometers per hour and uses regular tyres and accessories like indicators and such. The bike has been tested successfully under all weather conditions. E-Zipp was launched in Maharashtra, India during late 2010 and is within an affordable price range. The bike is extremely eco-friendly with no emissions and rides with a smooth, quiet purr. The E-Zipp might not be a replacement for your car or bike but is a friendly addition to the family of two wheelers in India. E-Zipp is energy efficient, economical, and environmentally friendly; making it an easy choice for everyone.

Standard Test Conditions of eZipp electric bike

Fully charged status of new Batteries. As the batteries ages, it gradually loses its capacity causing gradual drop in speed and mileage
. Specified tyre pressure-front and rear
. Road Condition - Smooth and Plain
. Standard load condition-80 kg
. Charging of battery done by company provided Charger
. Throttle (Accelerator) operation - Avoid frequent acceleration and braking
. Wind Condition - Not in reverse.
Brake Free Play - Front and Rear
. Night riding with all electrical lights 'ON' reduces the range.
. Specified Periodical Maintenance
. Keeping battery idle for longer time could reduce its performance.
. Do not use high pressure water streams to wash your bike and after washing, it must be completely dry for use.

Press release-eZipp

eZipp, India’s one of the economical electric bike has been launched 8th Oct-2010 by Mr. Dhaval J. Chandan, Chairman, VRLA Manufacturing Company, (A group Company of RMP Infotec Private Limited), at a city hotel.

The launch was followed by a “ Ride the green way” rally where physically challenged students from V.R Ruia Mookh Badhir Vidhyalaya along with around 300 Punekars, participated in spreading the message of saving mother earth and shouted slogans like – “Ride the green way and save mother EARTH”.
The eZipp electric bike weighs only 70 kg, has an excellent new style and will be available in the market in trendy colors. The bike has a long lasting and reliable Exide battery, is Eco-friendly and environmentally safe to ride. The bike needs no license, no registration, and is certified by ARAI. The key factor is that the running cost of eZipp is 20 paisa per kilometer, making it a common man’s vehicle. The bike will be India’s one of the economical bike which will cost close to Rs. 22,000/-. Mr. Dhaval J. Chandan, Chairman, VRLA Manufacturing Company says, “The market for electric bikes is growing rapidly. We are pleased to announce the launch of eZipp an electric bike. While our R & D team was busy understanding the need of India, we identified three key challenges that stood before launching this bike, Eco- friendly, Ease of use and economic pricing of the bike in the hands of consumers. eZipp answers all these issues. As of now we are launching eZipp in Pune, and are already working to launch it in other 6 cities across Maharashtra. We hope that we will receive expressions of interest from around the country for our unique product.”

About VRLA
Founded in the year 2006, VRLA Manufacturing Company,( A group Company of Rs.1, 500 crore RMP Infotec Pvt Limited ), is an energy solutions certified company. Its expertise is in the manufacturing of electric appliances and products, like the Induction Cooker and Solar Lantern. They produce P.F connector and various energy solution product . Our State-of the -art Baddi Plant has a installed production capacity of 300 bikes per day. They are totally equipped with best in class equipments to provide complete after sales service and satisfaction to the eZipp customer. They have opened eZipp dealer in Fatima nagar which is one stop shop for sales, service and spare parts.




Pune Site

Eco-Friendly Bike Launched in Pune

Himachal Pradesh based company VRLA launched its eco-friendly two-wheeler ‘eZipp’ in Pune recently. “The cost of the vehicle is Rs 22,000 and we are soon going to launch the bike in six other cities in Maharashtra,” said the company chairman Dhavan Chandan.
The vehicle has been certified by the Automsotive Research Association of India (ARAI) and it doesn’t require any license or registration, Furthermore, the running cost of ‘eZipp’ is 20 paisa per km and it has its own charger and the battery can be charged anytime, anywhere.
Speaking during the launch, Mohan Dharia, president of Vanarai Foundation and former deputy chairman of the Planning Commission, said that already many eminent scientists have warned about the menacing effects of global warming and India will be one of the worst hit countries.
“Humans are harming the environment by aiding the process of ozone layer depletion. Greater use of vehicles would lead to higher levels of pollution. Eco-friendly bikes are certainly the vehicles of the future when it comes to saving the environment and fossil fuel.” Dharia went onto say.
Nilesh Nikam, the leader of the house in the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) said, “The vehicle is eco-friendly and low-cost. e-Zipp will help to keep the environment pollution-free and help to reduce the number of people who suffer from respiratory tract illnesses, like asthma, and more.”




Sakal Times

Low-cost electric bikes for eco-friendly travel

Saturday, October 09, 2010 AT 05:17 PM (IST)

VRLA Manufacturing Company comes out with eZipp

PUNE: With environmental pollution and scarcity of petrol becoming major issues of debate today, electric bikes are coming into the market as eco-friendly means of transport. Electric bike eZipp, which was launched by VRLA Manufacturing Company on Friday, is also being touted as an eco-friendly and economical alternative to petrol bikes. Environmentalist Mohan Dharia and Pune Municipal Corporation Standing Committee chairman Nilesh Nikam were present on the occasion.

The bike is available for a price of Rs 22,000and will run on re-chargeable battery. “The bike requires two units of electricity, and it has to be charged for about six hours for it to be fully charged. The running cost of the vehicle is about 20 paisa per km as opposed to about Rs 7 per km for regular bikes,” said VRLA vice-president Harish Mehta.

The bike does not require licence or registration and youngsters above the age of 16 are permitted to use it. The bike has a speed of only 25 kmph. “The Exide battery used for the bike lasts for 365 cycles,” added Mehta.

The bike is manufactured in Himachal Pradesh and has been launched first in Pune. “Pune has the biggest two-wheeler presence in the country, hence we are launching it first here. We shall soon launch it across Maharashtra and then in other states,” said VRLA chief Dhaval J Chandan.

Differently-abled children from V R Ruia Mookh Badhir Vidhyalaya took part in a rally on the eZipp bikes to spread the eco-friendly message.





DNA
Eco-friendly scooterette'eZipp' launched in city
DNA : Oct 09, 2010

VRLA, a Himachal Pradesh-based company, launched its "eco-friendly" two-wheeler, 'eZipp' in Pune on Friday. Company chairman Dhavan Chandan said, "The vehicle costs Rs22,000, and we will soon launch the bike in six other cities in Maharashtra."
The running cost of this bike is 20 paisa per km. It has its own charger and can be charged anywhere, any time. It does not require any license or registration and has been certified by the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI).
Speaking at the launch, Mohan Dharia, president of Vanarai Foundation and former deputy chairman of the Planning Commission, said many eminent scientists have warned about global warming and have predicted that India will be one of the countries that would be worst hit.
"We are harming the ozone layer due to the high pollution levels and use of vehicles, which is a big threat to our environment. To save the environment and fossil fuel, eco-friendly bikes are definitely the vehicles for future," he said.
The leader of the house in the Pune Municipal Corporation, Nilesh Nikam said, "e-Zipp is low-cost and eco-friendly. It will help in keeping the environment pollution-free and reduce the number of people suffering from respiratory tract illnesses."eZipp, the electric bike, was launched on Friday

eZipp electric bike (FAQs)

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)

1. How is Ezipp-Bike different from conventional petrol driven two wheelers?
Ezipp-Bike is a new generation High Tech Vehicle. Contemporary petrol engine vehicles have a low energy efficiency of about 40%. The compression stroke of the standard 4 stroke cycle wastes energy. Moreover, energy is lost in cooling, unburnt fuel in the exhaust, gear & clutch for controlling speed, etc.
In an electric vehicle, energy from battery is directly taken to the electric motor through controller; hence maximum energy efficiency is achieved. The elimination of major mechanical parts such as engine, gear box, clutch, etc simplifies maintenance. The vehicle is pollution free, silent in operation and vibration free.

2. What is the speed?
Ezipp-Bike can give a maximum speed of about 25km/hr with single rider, which makes it less susceptible to road accidents due to rash driving.

3. What is the load carrying capacity?
Ezipp-Bike can carry 1adult+1child passengers and has a load carrying capacity of 80 kgs. Even sari-guard provided for the convenience of lady passengers.

4. How to make a report in Police Station in case of a theft?
Ezipp-Bike shall be governed by CMVR rule. Every Ezipp-Bike has been stamped with an identification number on its chassis. You can register the case with respect to this vehicle identification number, as does the RTO Registration book. Use these for any police complaint.

5. Can you wash these vehicles?
Yes, you can easily wash these vehicles. However, washing with pressurized water is not recommended.

6. Is Ezipp-Bike suitable for the rainy season?
Yes, Ezipp-Bike is suitable for the rainy season. Ezipp-Bike has been tested in a simulated rain conditions at our factory in Baddi.

8. What is the mileage (km/charge?)
40km (standard test conditions)

9. What is the rated output power?
Upto 250 w

10. What is the illumination of the head light?
5 W

11. In case of tyres getting punctured, can they be repaired by conventional ways?
Yes, tyres used in these vehicles are no different from the ones used in ordinary vehicles, so they can be repaired easily by conventional ways. But it is advisable to get it repaired at the authorized dealer’s service centre of Ezipp-Bike. A junction Box has been provided for easy disconnection and disassembly of rear wheel for any repair.

12. What is the warranty time?
Warranty time for the whole vehicle is one year while for the battery, it is six months.

13. What is the cost for 1km run?
20paise/km

14. Are spare parts for these vehicles easily available?
A separate department in the company works specially to support easy availability of spare Parts. Spare parts are easily available with all our dealers.

15. What is the weight of the vehicle?
The vehicle weight with battery is 70kgs

16. FAQs RELATED TO BATTERIES & CHARGERS

i) Can I buy an extra battery pack and what will be the cost?
As you can buy an extra battery pack. You can book your order for spare battery sets with dealers. Price for new batteries is also available with dealers.

a) If the charging of the battery is similar to mobile charging then does the charging of Ezipp-Bike takes so much time?

Mobile Phones batteries are very small in size and use different technology (Lithi-ion) while our batteries are much bigger in size and are deep discharge batteries (lead-acid), so they take longer time to discharge.

b) How many units of power are consumed in one charge?
1.5units approx

ii) What is the average life of batteries?
One year or 350 cycles whichever is earlier.
Life of the Battery is enhanced if it is not fully discharged .Opportunity charging
Should be used whenever available.

iii) Are the batteries detachable?
Yes, but batteries are heavy &are not recommended to be taken out.

iv) Is there any requirement of filling the distilled water in the batteries?
No, not at all. These are sealed lead acid Batteries and do not require any
Maintainenance

16.2 When should I charge the batteries?
A charger has been provided which operates at 220 VOLT AC, 2.5A domestic power supply. It takes about 6 to 8 hours for charging the batteries when battery is under discharge condition.

Charge the batteries whenever you get an opportunity, even it is not fully discharged.
The right hand meter on the display panel located on the handle of Ezipp-Bike show the battery charge level. The meter is marked with “L” (low), 40% 60%and “H” (high /full) charge. When the indicator reaches near the middle between L and 40 %( roughly20%), recharging is necessary.

16.3 What are the precautions for charger?
Do not carry the charger in the utility box of Ezipp-Bike .Do not shake the/drop/subject it to vibration, as it may damage the charger.

Do not expose the charger to rain or moisture. Switch on the main current only after plugging both sides of the charger .Charger should be kept completely closed during charging operation, as inside the charger the voltage is dangerously high. Check and ensure that the small cooling fan of the charger is working during charging.

16.4 Are there any bad effects on the batteries in case charger is connected for long time?
No, the Batteries will not be affected as our chargers are specially designed to avoid overcharging. When the charging gets completed, the red light turns green; however it is advisable to switch off and disconnect the charger at the earliest.

16.5. What is the effect on batteries if the battery pack is left for days without charging?
Leaving the batteries in discharged condition for long period will affect the Battery life. It is advisable to charge the batteries regularly. Batteries can be left uncharged to a period of around 30 days. When leaving for outstation, charge the battery to full. On return, charge the Batteries before driving the vehicle.

16.6 Is it safe to leave the battery pack in the vehicle itself while parking?
Yes, battery packs have been provided with the lock facility.

16.7 Can I use any other make of batteries for Ezipp-Bike?
No, not at all. Ezipp-Bikes batteries are specially designed. Use of any other make of Batteries is not permitted. The company will not be responsible for the performance/damages and warranty claims of the Ezipp-Bike.

17 How the Ezipp-Bike is different from other existing E-bikes in the market?
Ezipp-Bike gives you a unique experience of riding. The Ezipp-Bike runs in such a manner which makes you feel as though you are floating on air which testifies the fact that it has a very strong and robust suspension system.

18. Is it easy to dismantle it if required?
Since Ezipp-Bike comprises primarily of batteries it minimizes the effort of dismantling it since there are no complicated parts involved in comparison to petrol-driven bikes.

19. How does it suit to the personality of the owner?
Since it has a striking resemblance to the latest-styled two wheelers it elevates the
Mental levels of the owner and makes him proud for possessing such an eco-friendly bike.
With so much of striking and glaring features in comparison to other bikes there is no doubt that Ezipp-Bike has rid the right cord among the masses and has brought a revolution in the automobile sector.