Electric Vehicle Revolution on St Helena
British businessman Derek Pedley, one of the few individuals already driving an electric vehicle (EV) on the remote island of St Helena, is optimistic about the future of EVs on the island. Pedley believes that the simplicity of the EV powertrain will pave the way for hundreds of EVs to be imported to St Helena within the next five years.
Confident in his beliefs, Pedley has taken the initiative to import a small fleet of electric Minis to the island. Not only that, but he plans to adorn them with the St Helena flag, showcasing his commitment to promoting sustainable transportation on the island.
Speaking about his experience with running an electric car on St Helena, Pedley expressed his satisfaction with the reliability of the vehicle. He mentioned that repairs have been minimal, limited to standard maintenance tasks such as brakes and tires. With such positive experiences, Pedley is convinced that the transition to EVs is imminent on the island.
One of the major attractions for EVs on St Helena is the absence of import tax, making EVs more affordable compared to the UK. Despite the low average wages on the island, the government is exploring alternative incentives to encourage widespread adoption of EVs among the population.
Subaru Enthusiasts Embrace the Electric Revolution
The introduction of the Solterra EV has sparked interest among Subaru enthusiasts on St Helena, a surprising phenomenon given the island’s remote location. Despite being 1200 miles away from the nearest land, a small group of individuals have imported Japanese-market Subaru classics, including sought-after models like the Subaru Impreza WRX.
With its winding mountain roads that resemble rally stages, St Helena has become a haven for Subaru owners who appreciate the all-wheel-drive capabilities of their vehicles. Alex Hudson, a proud owner of a UK-market 2006 WRX, expressed his fondness for Subarus on the island, citing their suitability for navigating the challenging terrain.
While intrigued by the new electric Subaru Solterra, Hudson remains loyal to his trusty Impreza, highlighting the enduring appeal of traditional combustion engine vehicles among enthusiasts. Nonetheless, he appreciates Subaru’s foray into electric technology and looks forward to witnessing the evolution of the brand.
Jeremy Hart
