Ben’s love.hate

November 10 2010 14:21
Category: love.hate.

Saving the planet: 1 mile at a time.

This ugly little creation is a G-wiz. Launched by Reva in 2003 it's powered by electricity and therefore has absolutely no harmful emissions. Brilliant in theory, but the G-wiz didn’t really catch on. I’ve never seen a single one of these bug-eyed tin cans outside the M25 and even on the busy streets of London I’ve only ever encountered a few, which is surprising given that the G-wiz is exempt from the hefty congestion charges in the centre of town.

The big problem is that as consumers we are often motivated more by image than we are by saving money or even the planet. And the simple truth is that the G-wiz is an ugly little bugger. I hate the look of this car and I certainly wouldn’t want to be seen driving one. To me the G-wiz is an example of a good idea, badly executed.

This on the other hand is genius. Its the brand new Toyota Auris. First unveiled as a concept car in 2009 it’s now available in the UK and features the same eco-friendly hybrid technology that powers its slightly dull looking big brother the Prius. But in addition to this the Auris has got a some really cool features that are totally unique. Solar panels built into the roof help to power the electric engine, while smaller ones on top of the dashboard collect enough energy to charge phones and iPods that are connected to the in-car docking stations. A new spoiler and front wing design reduces drag and increases efficiency, while state-of-the-art tyres ensure that the car runs absolutely silently at low speeds. 

Aesthetically this car is far from radical but I think it looks cool. Well proportioned, contemporary and sporty. I’d happily drive one myself. Above all it’s practical, and cheap to run. 
It will undoubtedly have mass appeal. This is what great design is all about, when form and function come together to create something that really does tick all the boxes.