Kilowatt Lights It Up

Sweat can be sexy. It can be hot, turn you on, whirr your mind into a frenzy. But not when you're on your way to impress clients, or a first date. Which is one of the advantages Steven Luscher states in a list you could call "Electric Vehicle (EV) vs. Traditional Bicycle".

"Don't get me wrong," states Luscher, an admirer of EVs. "Nothing will ever replace the two-wheeled bicycle. But for people who are aging, have a physical disability, are running a heavier errand, hate bad weather, or just need to get somewhere quicker, a power-assisted bicycle can definitely compliment cycling."

Luscher organizes the The Vancouver Electric Vehicle Meetup, which invites all EV users for a monthly ride called The Kilowatt Hour. The next event is Friday, October 12th. Luscher is also the owner of a Luyuan, a brand of electric bicycle.

How did Luscher become an advocate for a mostly unknown transportation mode? "I won a power-assisted bicycle from the Commuter Challenge. I instantly loved it, but found there was no one in this city to talk to about owning an electric bike." Luscher started a Meetup group to find others who rode power-assisted bikes, scooters, even cars. "The Kilowatt Hour is loosely modeled on Critical Mass, except we are open to all EV types, from the Prius to someone's modified electric skateboard!"

He hopes to see not only owners, but also enthusiasts who like to tinker around with EVs. With more members joining the group, hopefully the next EV owner won't feel as lonely.

Photo courtesy of Steven Luscher.