|
eGO Vehicles Enter Europe En Masse
Distribution Network Established in Eight Countries
For Immediate Release
Media Contact: Mary K. Talbot
01.401.245.8819
mktalbot@cox.net
PROVIDENCE, RHODE ISLAND, USA, May 17, 2004: eGO Vehicles, Inc., America's leading manufacturer of fun, easy-to-ride, eco-friendly personal transportation, announced its European expansion into France, Germany, Switzerland, the UK, Denmark, the Netherlands, Sweden, Austria, and the Czech Republic today.
"We're confident that the two vehicles we are introducing will fit well with both the environmental and design sensibilities of the European consumer," said Andrew Kallfelz, president and chief executive officer. "We are offering Europe's first 'e' marked electric mopeds, which means that we have met the European standards for motor vehicles. We are offering it with the same popular design features of our U.S. version, including superb range, performance, comfort, cargo-carrying capability and a sleek, step-thru design. As a company, we see our expansion into Europe as a great opportunity to win over consumers in a market that already embraces alternative methods of transportation."
To serve the European market, eGO Vehicles, Inc. has established a logistics center in Rotterdam providing rapid delivery to European distributors. Two models of the Helio Cycle and accessories are now actively shipping to customers through distribution partners in all eight countries. Retail prices range from €1,200 to €2,000 depending upon location, delivery and VAT (value added taxes). Those distribution points are:
- Switzerland: Volland AG, located in Rumlang, www.egovehicles.ch/
- France: VOL in Ste Foyde Peyrolieres, www.evol-electric.com
- Germany: Solar und Mobil in Lorsch, www.solar-mobil.de
- UK: eGO Vehicles UK in Surrey, www.egovehicles.com
- Denmark: DSR Scandanavia, www.el-knallert.dk
- The Netherlands: Gran tourismo
- Sweden: TWS Motor AB, www.tws-motor.se/
- Czech Republic: AEP s.r.o., www.mrakodrap.cz/
The Helio Cycle will provide optimum performance for students, commuters, and progressive businesses with a 40-km range and top speed of 37 kmh. The Helio Cycle M model is identical in appearance to the Helio Cycle, but is better suited for some markets because of its top speed of 25kmh. In some countries the Helio M qualifies as a low speed moped meaning it is less stringently regulated than motor vehicles.
The Helio Cycle's small size and lightweight make it easier to transport on subways and park in bicycle lockers than conventional mopeds. Simple controls, large wheels and a low center of gravity make the Helio very user friendly.
With a powerful onboard battery, Helio can be recharged from a standard electrical outlet in just four to five hours. An optional, external "fast charger" expedites the charging process, providing a full charge in 1.5 hours.
The Helio's sleek design includes front suspension for a smooth ride, a wide foot platform for comfort and ease of use, as well as front disc brakes for responsive braking, even with heavy cargo. The Helio Cycle can carry a total of 113 kilos (250 lbs) of rider and on-board cargo, and an additional 46 kilos (100 lbs) in an optional cargo trailer.
Functional adjustments that have been made to adapt the Helio for sales in the EU include:
- 'e' marked lighting-- The EU version also includes an 'e' marked headlight, tail light and brake light, a license tag light, and the required side reflectors and 'e' marked rear view mirrors.
- Speedometer--The 6-function speedometer can be programmed to display in metric or English units and is backlit for night riding.
- Registration-The Helio ships with statutory markings and a certificate of conformity (COC) that enables registration in any EU country.
- Charging--The on-board charger accepts any utility voltage, allowing you to safely plug into a standard outlet. The Helio Cycle ships with a receptacle for a world wide standard computer power cord.
- Certification--eGO Vehicles' new Helio models meet all of the requirements of the homologated vehicle laws in the EU. Each Helio is vehicle type approved as a 'moped' under 92/61/EEC.
Based in Providence, Rhode Island, eGO Vehicles is privately owned. Its management team brings more than twelve years of experience in the technology sector to bear for the company. Through thoughtful product engineering, marketing and fiscal management, eGO Vehicles, Inc., is expected to achieve profitability and sales growth of 250% in 2004. Now considered America's leading manufacturer of fun, eco-friendly personal transportation, the company will continue to seek additional marketplaces around the globe to continue to grow. For more information on eGO Vehicles, Inc., visit www.egovehicles.com.
# # #