Over 25 mechanics, auto electricians trained to maintain, repair electric vehicles

With some 168 electric vehicles currently in the country, the Guyana Government is moving to put the necessary infrastructure in place to encourage more persons to utilise these greener modes of transportation.
This was emphasised by the Head of the Guyana Energy Agency (GEA), Dr Mahender Sharma, during a presentation at the ongoing Energy Conference at the Marriott Hotel in Georgetown on Thursday.
Dr Sharma noted that, in addition to removing taxes on the importation of electric vehicles, the Government plans to invest heavily in infrastructural development.
In this regard, he revealed that over 25 mechanics and auto electricians were trained to conduct repairs and maintenance of electric vehicles, through an initiative supported by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB).
Moreover, he restated the Government’s intention to install six public charging stations at strategic locations across the country, noting that this project presents opportunities for the Private Sector to get on board.
Reports are that Flash Motors Company Limited of Jamaica has been contracted by Government for the supply of these stations.
Unlike combustion vehicles, electric vehicles are propelled by electromagnetism and by an electric motor that is charged using electricity, eliminating oil changes and other features distinct from gasoline or diesel vehicles.
Dr Sharma explained that, based on current electricity prices, charging one of these vehicles costs about US$0.04 per kilometre, as compared to US$10 per kilometre if gasoline or diesel is used.
“And just imagine, when we lower the cost of electricity by 50%, what that number looks like for e-mobility,” he declared.