EcoVelocity is a new type of low carbon motor show that SMEs should attend because it’s an easy way to see the latest in green technologies, explains event organiser Giles Brown to editor Ralph Morton.IT’S a new type of car show – EcoVelocity – reckons its organiser, Giles Brown. Giles should know: he has previous form as organiser of the British Motor Show, which is now no more.
“People want an opportunity to drive the new cars of the future – the low carbon cars – but in a place that’s not difficult to access,” says Giles. “London is the place to do it, where the need to reduce carbon emissions is most acute.”
The EcoVelocity show is taking place at Battersea Power Station – that monumental hunk of a power-producing dinosaur which once belched soot into the sky above the capital city. You can visit the show from Thursday 08 September to Sunday 11 September.
“It’s an iconic location,” agrees Giles. “But it seemed suitable, especially as we can have a 1km test track available in London.
“The idea behind the show is that so many manufacturers are coming to market with so many new types of technology there’s buyer apprehension. With EcoVelocity you can come and overcome this apprehension.”
None of this sounds like a bad idea – and there’s plenty to keep the family happy too – but why should it be of interest to SME businesses?
“Many of the fleet and business shows take place at often inaccessible areas, usually race tracks, and are during the week. I expect most small and SME businesses never go to them anyway – they wouldn’t be invited. And the directors would be too busy running the firm to spend time away like that even if they were.
“But with EcoVelocity it’s a friendlier environment and it runs over the weekend. There’s a lot of advice available too. EDF wants to talk about the electrification of cars. For a small business, they can come and learn about new low carbon car technologies and then make informed decisions. After all, low carbon means low cost – and all businesses want to keep an eye on the bottom line.”
Among the cars and vehicles there will be Honda with its hydrogen powered FCX Clarity, Volkswagen with its low CO2 BlueMotion cars, along with the hybrid version of the Touraeg SUV. Other manufacturers include Citroen, Fiat, Ford, Hyundai, Kia, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Peugeot, Renault, SEAT, Toyota, Lexus, Vauxhall and Volvo.
“Exhibitors include Source London, which provides the re-charging points for eletric vehicles (RVs). Benefits include free parking and exemption from the London Congestion Charge,” adds Giles.
What about the costs?
It’s very reasonable to get into EcoVelocity. For an adult it’s L10 while for a family it’s L25. Metro newspaper, a co-sponsor, is offering a 20% discount on tickets.
But to help businesses make the most of it, Giles has given Business Car Manager readers the chance to go on a 2-for-1 basis.
To benefit from this, go to our Readers Offer page:
EcoVelocity 2-for-1 ticket offer
“We look forward to seeing plenty of small business and SME owners at the show,” adds Giles.
“We’re sure they’ll go away better informed.”
