E-MOBILITY 16 May 2019
E-MOBILITY IN MALTA Challenges and opportunities Much has been said about the need to reduce the carbon footprint of our road transport system. Since the change-over of our energy system to natural gas, transport has become the major challenge to (i) reducing the impact of emissions on the environment and public health, and (ii) reaching our CO2 emission targets. This challenge was also highlighted in the 2019 Country Report by the European Commission in respect of our international obligations to reduce emissions. Director of the Institute for Climate Change and Sustainable Development at the University of Malta, Prof. Maria Attard, writes
he report stated that ‌ the 2020 target under the Effort Sharing Decision is expected to be missed by a margin of 11 pps, according to the latest national projections submitted to the Commission, which takes all existing measures into account. In 2030, this gap with the effort sharing target is expected to rise to 46 pps. One of the technological solutions set to reduce emissions from road transport is electrification. Electric mobility has been pushed, particularly by the European Commission, as the remedy which will resolve the concerns over CO2 in cities and urban areas, and thus reduce the CO2 contribution of transport. This said, efforts have been made to improve not only the performance of the electric vehicle, especially the battery, but also its image. All major car manufacturers have now released their electric car models and improved range and battery life. Prices are still high, however many governments have provided subsidies to assist car owners to change from conventionally fuelled vehicles to electric vehicles. Another significant investment in many cities have been the charging infrastructure for such fleets. These have been implemented widely in an attempt to also reduce the concerns over range. But what have been the realities on the ground in Malta? Despite the wider range of available vehicles, the investment in 102 charging points around the islands and the availability of grants to support behaviour change in favour of electric cars, the uptake has been overall very disappointing. Figure 1 shows the growth of electric passenger cars compared to the number of petrol and diesel passenger cars between 1998 and 2016, with the first electric cars being licensed in 2003. The total in 2016 was just above 150 electric cars. The recent efforts by the local car sharing company to release 150 electric cars and install 225 electric charging stations hopes to add
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more interest in this technology. In July 2012, the National Strategy for the Introduction of Electromobility in Malta aimed to have 5,000 electric vehicles in Malta by 2020. This target continues to drive the current policy for electromobility. We are still very far away from reaching this target (also shown in Figure 1) and therefore one questions the contribution and our over-reliance on the technology to solve our emissions problem. In 2015 a study which I coauthored with colleagues from the University of Malta showed little impact on the reduction of emissions if the only measure to achieve our targets was an electrification policy. This was tied
to the then energy mix from which Malta generated its electricity. This has changed now with the benefits accrued from the use of natural gas, and further potential if the islands manage to increase their share of alternative means of energy generation. Indeed, further studies have shown that there are some significant benefits from electrification of the fleet should the efforts to increase alternative, more environmental fuel sources be made. Electrification however is only a solution to one of the problems related to motorized transport. This might be a solution which, if implemented in tandem with shared concepts and the much anticipated automation, might
Number of Passenger Cars for the period 1998-2016 compared to the number of passenger electric cars over the same period. Source: National Statistics Office.
decrease some of the other negative impacts of our current road transport systems. The problems of congestion, parking, increasing land take up for private mobility, health consequences of a reduction in active travel, community severance and social exclusion cannot be tackled solely by technology developments. And whilst it is easier to implement technological solutions, it is critical that also behavioural challenges are tackled to encourage more active travel (walking and cycling) for short distance journeys, use of the bus through more and improved priority, and other means such as sea ferries where the geography and climate permit such modes. The 2015 study showed that the maximum benefits of reducing external costs (including emission and congestion reductions) would be through a modal shift. Significant investment in electric mobility will continue to improve the technology and make it more pervasive. Policy interventions and financial support will feed the change that is envisaged for the fleets, as many countries pledge zero-emission targets for their cities. It is hoped that our overreliance on this technology solution does not cloud our judgement on the actions that are needed to tackle the wider costs of transport systems which are heavily dependent on the private car.
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Tailored to customer need Ford reveals new electrified vehicle line-up at ‘Go Electric’ experience in Amsterdam n advanced line-up of Ford electrified vehicles marks a new milestone for Ford and its customers, the company today announced at a special “Go Electric” experience in Amsterdam, Netherlands. A new range of models under the Ford Hybrid banner feature sophisticated mild-, full- and plug-in hybrid powertrains to enhance fuelefficiency and driving experiences for customers in Europe – bringing Ford’s brand values of trust, affordability and fun-to-drive to electrified vehicles. Ford unveiled at “Go Electric” the Kuga Plug-In Hybrid variant of the company’s all-new mid-size SUV – Ford’s most electrified vehicle ever and the first Ford to offer mildhybrid, full-hybrid and plug-in hybrid, powertrains. The all-new Explorer Plug-In Hybrid seven-seat SUV and the new Tourneo Custom Plug-In Hybrid eight-seat people-mover today made their global debuts – each offering pure-electric driving capability alongside the driving range and freedom offered by a traditional combustion engine. Ford also revealed the new Fiesta EcoBoost Hybrid and Focus EcoBoost Hybrid models that feature sophisticated mild-hybrid technology for reduced CO2 emissions, optimised fuel-efficiency,
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and a more responsive and rewarding driving experience. In addition, Ford announced that a new all-electric Transit will join the company’s line-up of electrified commercial vehicles in 2022. Designed to deliver pure-electric propulsion, the new van will contribute to cleaner, quieter towns and cities, and reduced running costs for business and operators. Ford’s Mustang-inspired allelectric performance SUV will arrive in 2020, with a pure-electric driving range of 600 km (more than 370 miles) calculated using the World Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP), and fast-charging capability. A one-of-a-kind Ford Transit Smart Energy Concept 10-seater minibus is helping the company explore solutions for further optimising the energy efficiency and driving range of electrified vehicles. Electrifying the future Ford is committed to be a leader in providing customers with a broad choice of electrified vehicles with easy access to charging, and supporting them with enhanced connectivity and related mobility services. Earlier this year, Ford announced that every one of the company’s nameplates launched from the allnew Focus onwards will include an electrified option. This includes new nameplates and new versions of
existing vehicles. Either one of, or a combination of, mild-hybrid, fullhybrid, plug-in hybrid or full battery electric options will be offered, delivering one of the most encompassing line-ups of electrified options for European customers of any manufacturer. Ford Hybrid and all-electric models utilise a range of powertrain technologies and technical solutions to tailor performance and capability to surpass customer expectations and reflect diverse operating scenarios for different vehicles. The series-hybrid configuration of the Transit Custom Plug-In Hybrid and Tourneo Custom Plug-In Hybrid further adapts the mains-chargeable battery and electric motor configuration to suit the application – using a fuel-efficient petrol engine solely to recharge the battery, with no physical connection the wheels. And the self-charging full-hybrid technology employed by the Mondeo Hybrid is capable of pure electric driving for refinement particularly in city and stop-start driving scenarios. The powertrain eliminates both range anxiety and the need for customers to use an external power source to charge the battery. Ford’s future all-electric vehicles will deliver next-generation connectivity for over-the-air updates, and will be supported by the IONITY network of fast-charging stations. Ford is a founder member of the
IONITY consortium that aims to build 400 stations in key European locations by 2020, with a charging capacity of 350 kW. This enables a significant reduction to charging times compared to existing systems.
emissions and enable operation in growing number of ultra-lowemission vehicle zones being introduced across Europe – will be available to European customers from late 2019.
Kuga’s comprehensive hybrid line-up The all-new Ford Kuga is the first Ford passenger car to be offered with plug-in hybrid, mild-hybrid and fullhybrid powertrains.
Transit goes all-electric Anticipated for volume launch in 2021, the new all-electric Ford Transit van is designed to address the needs of businesses for a capable and versatile zero-emission loadcarrier for urban applications. The all-electric Transit will be available in multiple body styles, delivering full Transit capability and durability.
Pure-electric, pure luxury, Explorer Plug-In Hybrid The all-new Ford Explorer Plug-In Hybrid will be offered in two distinctive, high-specification variants – the sporty, Ford Performance-inspired Explorer STLine and the luxurious Explorer Platinum. Powered by a combination of Ford’s 3.0-litre EcoBoost V6 petrol engine, electric motor and generator, the Explorer Plug-In Hybrid delivers 450 PS and 840 Nm of torque. The SUV will also offer more than 40 km zeroemissions pure-electric city driving range, alongside anticipated X.X l/100 km fuel efficiency and XX g/km CO2 emissions. Tourneo Plug-In Hybrid contributes to cleaner cities The eight-seat Tourneo Custom Plug-In Hybrid – designed to contribute to reduced local
Fiesta and Focus EcoBoost Hybrid: Lower emissions, higher power The Fiesta EcoBoost Hybrid and Focus EcoBoost Hybrid will feature a sophisticated mild-hybrid architecture tailored to enhance fuelefficiency while complementing Ford’s fun to drive experience with more powerful and responsive performance. Smart Energy Concept looks to the future Ford also today revealed the new Transit Smart Energy Concept – a one-of-a-kind 10-seater minibus that is helping the company explore solutions for maximising the energy efficiency and driving range of future electrified vehicles.
E-MOBILITY The future of conventionally fuelled vehicles ransport plays a major role in the advancement of every modern society as a means for economic development and a prerequisite for achieving social and regional cohesion. The transport sector in Malta is particularly important since it is a crucial aspect of competitiveness of the domestic economy, provides access to services to its citizens, and has to fit in the most complex constraints of space and population density of any European Union (EU) Member State. Transport is today at a crossroads. Old challenges remain but new ones have arisen. Although the future prosperity of any country will depend on its ability to remain fully and competitively integrated through efficient transport, the sector adversely affects both the natural and built environment and all its components. So whilst a lot has been done to enhance transport’s environmental performance (in terms of making it cleaner and more energy efficient) increased volumes mean it remains a major source of noise, congestion and air pollution, particularly because the transport is still highly dependent on the combustion of fossil fuels. Nonetheless, there has recently been a global move towards the investment in research and development of alternative energy sources which may be utilised in the transport sector, in particular, technologies which do not make use of internal combustion engines. Electric vehicles are at the forefront of such research and studies and projections show great promise for this
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Although the future prosperity of any country will depend on its ability to remain fully and competitively integrated through efficient transport, the sector adversely affects both the natural and built environment and all its components alternative means of transport. Towards the end of 2017, the Maltese Government decided that a Cut-off date for the importation and registration of conventionally fuelled vehicles on the Maltese Territory needed to be established. Conventionally fuelled vehicles are defined in the 2011 EU white paper on transport, namely, vehicles using non-hybrid, internal combustion engines (ICE). This is similar to what other EU Countries are doing with respect to the phasing out of conventionally fuelled vehicles. It is to be noted that the Malta National Transport Strategy (NTS) and the Malta National Transport Master plan already includes
indicative targets of the phasing out conventionally fuelled vehicles on Maltese Roads. So as to assess and move forward towards the achievement of such targets, the Minister for the Environment, Sustainable Development and Climate Change invited the Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Capital Projects to establish a committee which is comprised of an executive committee made up of members representing the main ministries involved, namely the Ministry for Transport, Infrastructure and Capital Projects; the Ministry for the Environment, Sustainable Development and Climate Change; and the Ministry for Energy and Water Management and the Malta Resources Authority, Energy and Water Agency, Transport Malta and the Environment and Resources Authority The e-CAR committee has been assigned the task of: • Drafting the consultation document on the cut-off date for the implementation of all ICE imports in Malta; • Conducting close consultations with policy makers and relevant stakeholders involved; Submitting recommendations to Minister for Cabinet approval; • While carrying out its task, the committee needs to assess the different impacts which such a cut of date may have on various fronts, including economic, infrastructural, environmental and social impacts.
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To this end a study has been commissioned to assist the committee in such an assessment through which informed decisions on a national level may be taken in this regard. Work to date has involved the analysis of statistical information, together with National and EU- wide studies where the natural progression towards having a larger fleet consisting of no ICE vehicles has been determined. The Next steps will involve the utilisation of such ‘baseline data’ together with the results of consultations carried out so far to arrive at cut-off dates for the importation of conventionally fuelled vehicles. It is understood that consultation on a very broad scale with interested stakeholders is necessary in order to ensure a smooth transition to an electrified fleet. It is important to note that all Authorities involved in the e-Cars Committee are also working on specific initiatives aimed at addressing problems associated with the use of vehicles and associated impacts. As mentioned earlier, the ever-increasing use of vehicles, in particular ICE vehicles, is leading to localised, National and International effects that need to be addressed on a local and international level on various fronts. Looking into and using alternative technologies and modes of transport is the major catalyst for benefits to be reaped in the long run. This article was submitted by the Environment and Resources Authority (ERA)
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GO embarks on a €100 million investment programme The largest investor in Malta’s digital infrastructure uring a press conference held late last month in the presence of the Honourable Prime Minister, Dr Joseph Muscat, GO confirmed its commitment to being the largest investor in Malta’s state-of-the-art digital infrastructure. ‘At GO, we believe that the only way to future proof Malta and to be able to handle the phenomenal growth in data, is to invest in a state-of-the-art, fibre-to-the-home network. Simply put, a fibre network delivers data to you at the speed of light. There is nothing faster in science today. GO is the only company in Malta that delivers a true fibre network right up to your living room,’ said Nikhil Patil, CEO at GO plc. To date, more than 85,000 homes have the opportunity to experience true-fibre technology. “We are working round the clock to expedite rollout of true fibre so that every house and business can benefit from the best technology on the market. We expect at least 100,000 homes, the equivalent of approximately 50% of Malta and Gozo, to be covered by the end of 2019, with full nationwide coverage by 2024,’ said Nikhil Patil. “We are very proud of our achievements so far, considering the complexities involved in rolling out such a network. This is a massive exercise that requires meticulous coordination across various government entities, contractors, vendors and other parties,’ he explained. ‘Our investment does not stop here. We continuously strive for innovation. In fact, for the past months, our engineers have worked closely with an international vendor to develop the Smart Hub – a box that combines the power of true fibre, with our 4.5G mobile network to ensure that your true fibre connection never fails,’ concluded Patil.
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We expect at least 100,000 homes, the equivalent of approximately 50% of Malta and Gozo, to be covered by the end of 2019, with full nationwide coverage by 2024 - Nikhil Pati
GO remains committed to ensure that Malta’s digital infrastructure fully supports the country’s vision. Initiated in 2016, this long-term project is aimed at ensuring that Malta is ready for the technologies of the future. Prime Minister Muscat said, “Communications services are the backbone of today’s thriving economy. They underpin every sector, every industry. It is communications services and the infrastructure that drive innovation. Our vision can only be attained if all stakeholders pull the same rope and harness every opportunity to push Malta forward. GO has a long-standing history in its contribution to Malta’s economy. Not only has GO taken these opportunities, but it is now creating opportunities for further
growth.” Malta’s Prime Minister said, “Today we have witnessed the complexities behind the laying of true fibre technology and what this can offer. This is significant, not only because it caters for our growing demands today, but it is a technology that is setting Malta up for the next 100 years.’ The Prime Minister explained that Malta is also on track to be one of the first EU Member States to achieve full true fibre coverage and to reach the Digital Agenda targets. ‘We have created a digital economy that we should be proud of. Malta has been at the forefront of innovation in this regard. We have been a prime example, setting the standards across Europe in many cases. Most Government services are now available online – at the click of a button. We are attracting foreign investment to our shores; we are setting the right policies and strategies for Malta to become the blockchain island and AI centre of excellence; we have created the right environment for emerging industries. This would not be possible if it were not for a resilient and reliable communications infrastructure; for the continuous private investment and continued close collaboration between government and the private industry,’ he continued. Muscat thanked GO for having always supported Governments vision of being at the forefront of technology and innovation. ‘GO has never shied away from investing in its infrastructure to ensure that our homes and businesses enjoy the best technologies available,’ said Muscat. “Our confidence to strive for excellence comes from the comfort in the knowledge that companies such as GO are there to support our endeavours and efforts to take Malta to the next level”, concluded Muscat.
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E-MOBILITY No matter where you stand, there is one thing that we agree about: a healthy environment requires cleaner air. Cleaner air requires investment. Innovation brings investment.
The future of E-Mobility is here he future of mobility is not just about electro mobility. What we are dealing with is the future of mobility, ecological mobility and environmentally sustainable mobility. It is about our vision for the future. No matter where you stand, there is one thing that we agree about: a healthy environment requires cleaner air. Cleaner air requires investment. Innovation brings investment. If we take the local perspective, it was only a few years ago that we switched our national energy system from the polluting heavy fuel oil to the cleaner LNG. A major step forward that not only resulted in cheaper and more affordable energy bills but less pollutants in our air. The cleaner energy revolution however does not stop with power generation. There are other polluting sectors that need to be addressed. The increasing reality of climate change necessitates a shift from traditional economic models to ones that are rooted in sustainability, where new technologies can flourish, where innovation takes centre stage and where further investments are channelled into research and development. Recent data has shown that whilst, on average, carbon dioxide emissions in European countries decreased by 2.5 per cent between 2017 and 2018. Malta was one of eight countries to register an increase. As our country continues to experience an economic boom, the government is investing into improving the infrastructure. The first step was to invest in alleviating traffic congestion – which in turn means less time stuck in traffic inhaling CO2 emissions. The second step is to continue encouraging the uptake of cleaner vehicles, bicycles, pedelecs and
T At the first E-Mobility Summit held in Malta a few weeks ago, we had the opportunity to bring together local and foreign stakeholders to discuss the future of E-Mobility and to exchange ideas on the developments that are taking place. MEP Miriam Dalli writes
Recent data has shown that whilst, on average, carbon dioxide emissions in European countries decreased by 2.5 per cent between 2017 and 2018 alternative modes of transport. As we push policy in all sectors to start tackling climate change, we have to keep in mind that Europe is only in the initial adoption phase of electric mobility. It was about five to six years ago when early adoption took off in our continent, when the uptake appeared to be restricted to specific customer segments only in selected countries in Europe. Norway and the Netherlands are the clear frontrunners, but France, Germany and the UK were also showing high EV sales growth rates in the past few years.
Prime Minister Joseph Muscat is also speaking of a phase out of cars running on petrol and diesel. When I took on the negotiations of the legislation setting emissions standards for cars and vans, I knew that this would not be merely an environmental legislation. It’s about coupling the environment with innovation and addressing health, innovation, jobs and consumer benefits. The switch to cleaner vehicles is not a change that is driven only by consumers. All over Europe, the key drivers are government measures, such as adopting zero- to low emission vehicles targets, providing subsidies, tax exemptions and other benefits. Governments are promoting zeroand low emission vehicles to varying degrees across Europe by providing a range of subsidies and other benefits. Many European governments are making investments in enabling infrastructure, others are offering a broad package of subsidies or tax breaks. Purchase, lease and road taxes are among the burdens being eased by governments to make such vehicles a more attractive alternative to consumers. I believe that our islands can be
ideal places for pilot projects not only for e-mobility but also for cleaner energy initiatives. It is time to start making our first steps in Malta and Gozo towards the necessary transition to clean transport. A total upgrade and development of the Malta transport infrastructure and of public transport is already ongoing - this in an important first step. Then, the aim should be to accelerate the transition to zero- and low emission vehicles. Gozo, which is yet smaller, could be an ideal test-bed for new clean transport technologies. It is important to start looking into ideas, studies and proposals on how to make this happen. We need to engage producers and service providers of clean technologies and work together to make Malta the test ground for their products. It is this change that we need. I believe that policies need to move this shift and policy-makers need to encourage and stimulate this move. Change will not happen overnight as it requires lead-time and buy-in from stakeholders, citizens, industries and policy-makers, but it will happen. I believe that Malta has great potential and we can be market leaders in this regard.
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Car sharing is good for you… and the environment We all aspire to live in a place where there is less pollution, fewer vehicles on the road and more parking spaces. That’s what the GoTo car sharing vision is all about. How did car sharing come about? Owning a car has for a long time been considered a necessity because, in reality, people had limited options. So families did not just buy one vehicle, they bought two or more even though they do not need to use them all the time. Public transport is not suitable for everybody, while traditional taxis tended to be viewed as not being cost effective. The public have never been offered a realistic alternative and car sharing is that alternative. Why would someone use a car sharing service? With an increase in traffic on Malta’s roads and more difficulty finding places to park, motorists have been becoming more and more frustrated as they seek to get around. Car sharing addresses that problem because it enables anyone with a driving licence to get into a car to their destination – knowing that they will be able to park when they get there. GoTo has already rolled out a fleet of 150 electric cars, which is the ideal transport alternative for an island like Malta because it responds to the challenges presented by a dense urban environment. What are the benefits? There are many. Motorists are increasingly realising that they can save on the cost of buying and maintaining their own car – which is parked on the street or at their home for most of the day – by making use of car sharing options. The world is changing and the global trend has seen a shift from ownership to usership. This is not surprising. Due to faster-paced lifestyles and an increasing desire for people to find tailor-made services that work for them, not to mention advances in technology, companies like GoTo have made this possible. Once someone has downloaded our app, they can find the closest car to them, hop in, and drive off to their destination, leaving the car parked in one of 450 designated parking spaces across Malta and Gozo. How does car-sharing benefit the environment? In several ways. Firstly, all the cars placed on the roads by GoTo to date are electric, with zero emissions. That has got to be good for the public’s health. But as part of our commitment to the environment, we have also installed over 220 charging stations around the island which is in line with Malta’s target to have 5,000 electric vehicles on the road by 2020. Car sharing is leading the way
in providing a greener solution for getting around in congested cities, not least because the same car is being used by several commuters on any given day – which places less stress on parking spaces. But how does car sharing reduce congestion? With 47 new cars hitting the island’s roads every day, motorists need an alternative to owning a car and an incentive to encourage them to think twice before adding to the congestion. That’s what car sharing is all about, providing an important part the nation’s multi-pronged response to the challenges our dense urban environment faces today. We already have over 4,000 members making 600 trips per day. The more people that opt for car sharing, the fewer cars that will end up on the roads which in turn reduces congestion. The increasing cost of car ownership, added pressure on Malta’s infrastructure, rising frustration over being stuck in traffic and a growing desire for cleaner energy options mean this change in mentality is likely to be permanent. In Israel, where this service is already in operation, it is estimated that an average of 14 cars were replaced for one GoTo vehicle where the car sharing initiative was introduced. We believe that can only be a good thing.
ensure the journey is as smooth as possible.
Does car sharing take away car spaces from our towns? In the short term, perhaps yes – but in the longer term it will actually lead to an increase of available parking spaces as more people embrace car sharing and make a conscious decision to ditch a personal car. We are confident this this mentality shift is already happening and are happy that local councils have since come on board and recognised the long-term environmental benefits. Furthermore, GoTo’s orange parking spots are also strategically positioned close to other transport modes such as bus stops or ferries, to
What are GoTo’s plans for the future? Our aim is to continue our drive to explain the benefits of car sharing for families, individuals and the environment. We are confident that when people see the effects of our initiative, they will understand how important this concept can be to their lives – not only in terms of their personal convenience, but also by acting as a driver to tangibly reduce traffic on the island and, of course, freeing up more parking spaces that are currently taken up by idle private vehicles. Data shows that innovative transportation modes reduce dependency on private cars and this is a worthwhile objective. We are also seeking to expand the services we offer, such as a roundtrip service, and are doing our bit to encourage the public by offering them special incentives to get into car sharing. Our clients have peace of mind as we provide a 24/7 customer service line to ensure they are guided through the process. We can be reached at 2226 8000. goto.com.mt
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Electric, efficient and dynamically accomplished he BMW 225xe - 2 Series Active Tourer variant with eDrive – delivers a combination of sporting ability, economy and everyday practicality unique in its segment being the all-wheel drive plugin hybrid in the range. It allows locally emission-free driving without compromising on the driving pleasure you’d expect from BMW and combines an electric driving experience, high operating range with functional excellence and everyday practicality. The BMW 2 Series Active offers both a higher system output and more boot capacity than its competitors. With its plug-in hybrid drive system, it combines BMW Efficient Dynamics with comfort, driving pleasure and allwheel drive, and brings versatility and generous levels of space together in a compact vehicle. The BMW 225xe uses its combination of BMW eDrive and a 1.5-litre three-cylinder BMW TwinPower Turbo engine to offer both an electric driving experience and unrestricted mobility. Its combined fuel consumption of 2.1– 2.0 litres* per 100 kilometres / 134.5–141.2 mpg imp (CO2 emissions are just 49–46 grams* per kilometre)
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sets the benchmark in its class. The BMW 225xe’s plug-in hybrid technology enables locally emissionfree driving but also allows owners to cover long distances when required. It is therefore perfectly suited for use in urban areas and for family leisure activities. The BMW 2 Series Active Tourer with eDrive impresses with its interior, practical details and ergonomic ease of use. Since the lithium ion battery is arranged in a space-saving position under the rear seat bench and the electric drive system is fully accommodated under the load compartment floor, the boot’s capacity can be used virtually without restriction. Electric, efficient and dynamically accomplished. The driving experience is an equally important element of BMW’s family and leisure cars as everyday practicality. The BMW eDrive technologies developed under the banner of BMW Efficient Dynamics and a BMW TwinPower Turbo petrol engine team up to create an efficient and dynamically accomplished hybrid drive system which makes the perfect match for a BMW brand model: dynamically adept, locally emission-free thanks to
the electric drive and efficient over long distances. The electric drive system at the rear axle joins forces with the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer’s regular front-wheel-drive configuration to form what we call “electrified xDrive”. The result is outstanding traction even in adverse weather conditions. The rear-mounted 65 kW/88 hp electric motor drives the rear wheels and allows an electric range of up to 41
kilometres (25 miles). This makes it the obvious emission-free drive option for short distances, urban traffic and, with a top speed of 125 km/h (78 mph) on electric power alone. The high-revving three-cylinder petrol engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology and an output of 100 kW/136 hp is standing by for longer journeys and when higher speeds are the order of the day. The combustion
engine sends its power to the front wheels via a six-speed Steptronic transmission and represents a compelling proposition with its smooth running and 220 Newton metres (162 lb-ft) of torque available up to the 202 km/h (126 mph) top speed. Under heavy acceleration from rest and for overtaking manoeuvres, the power from the two drive systems combines to give a system output of 165 kW/224 hp and peak torque of up to 385 Newton metres (284 lb-ft). All of which enables acceleration from 0–100 km/h (62 mph) in 6.7 seconds. It ensures the combustion engine and electric motor work together to optimum effect in all driving situations and gives a pureelectric top speed of 80 km/h (50 mph). MAX eDRIVE allows the car to run on the electric drive system alone up to a speed of 125 km/h (78 mph). With SAVE BATTERY, the charge of the high voltage battery can be maintained or, if it’s already depleted, raised to over 50 per cent during a journey. Send an email to info@mml.mizzi.com.mt to book your test drive with Muscats Motors – The only BMW retailer in Malta
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The Parliamentary Secretariat for Persons with Disability and Active Ageing Anthony Agius Decelis
Silver-T: Embarking independent life within the community aintaining a healthy independent life within one’s own community is a key factor for a holistic well-being at an older age. The Parliamentary Secretariat for Persons with Disability and Active Ageing has embarked on the Silver-T pilot project to enhance access to local services and mobility within the community. The aim of this project is to offer personalised transport to older persons in order to facilitate their errands and day-to-day community activities. Through this service older persons can access health clinics, banks, shops, different services within their own community and fulfil other necessities such as visiting the church and cemetery. In such a way, older persons can reduce the burden on their relatives and friends and still fulfil their needs independently. Positive impacts of this service include the promotion of older persons’ well-being, the encouragement of autonomy and freedom upon older age and the strengthening of the social and psychological attributes for healthy living. In fact, it is scientifically proven that living within one’s own community enhances the quality of life of older persons. Mobility of residents within their own community fosters better socialisation and in turn reduces marginalisation and combats loneliness in older life. The Silver-T service will grant better access to services within the community so that older persons can remain active themselves without becoming dependent on other persons. This service also provides physical support to informal carers in
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maintaining their responsibilities for caring for older persons. From a broader perspective, this service will continue to enrich the provision of community services in line with government national policy. Provision of community services is a top priority so that older persons can live within the community as late as possible and without having the need to resort to residential care settings. Translating this paradigm into practice, it is important to look at this issue dynamically and ensure that all needs are being catered for
through a continuum of essential and dynamic services. Whilst we can already say that a large spectrum of clinical and non-clinical services are being provided within the community, services of a social nature are still necessary to ensure the holistic well-being of older persons. After being launched as a pilot scheme in three communities mainly Zurrieq, Gzira and Mosta, Silver T has recently seen an extension. This service was welcomed by older persons living in these communities and requests to launch this service in other communities have been coming
Dr Renzo Degabriele
in at a steady rate. This encouraged us to expand this service to more localities and a second phase of this project is now being rolled out to include Rabat, Mtarfa, Baħrija, Burmarrad, Ta’ Xbiex, Msida and Safi. In the coming months it is planned that a further expansion will take place to involve even more localities. Senior citizens can book their appointment for transport beforehand through direct line and the service operates from Monday to Friday from 7am till 2.15pm. Service users can also be accompanied by a relative or friend of their choice. Bookings Direct Line: 21695544
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From A to B hassle free Owning a private vehicle in Malta, while very convenient, has many attached recurring costs. Apart from the cost of purchase, fuel and maintenance, which are the most obvious, one must also consider the annual service, VRT, road licence, insurance, vehicle deprecation (the car loses its value over time), parking (including garage rent), loan interests (on the car if purchased by loan and on the garage if the garage is bought).
new average family car can cost its owner approximately €6,562 in annual costs when taking into consideration all the above mentioned expenses. On the other hand, should one car per household be replaced with the exclusive use of shared transport, cost savings can amount up to €1,640 annually. This is because these costs are spread among several people instead of having one person shoulder the burden. Using shared transport comes with other benefits apart from just costs savings such as the availability of exclusive parking spaces at the end of the destination and the right to use the Bus Priority lanes, thus avoiding congestion. The use of shared vehicles also comes completely hassle
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free since, once the user completes a journey using a shared vehicle, the user need not think of that vehicle again. Therefore, dealings with the insurance company, the payment of the road licence, the vehicle annual service, any recurring maintenance, storage of the vehicle are no longer the responsibility of the user. Vehicle sharing reduces the number of cars on the road since people who frequently use vehicle sharing tend to sell one of the cars owned by the household (keeping in mind that the trend in Malta is that each person over 18 owns his/her own car) and eventually start using alternate modes of transportation. Alternative transport modes are made more convenient when one pairs them with vehicle sharing as the shared vehicle can be left at the closest station and the journey is continued by bus/ferry
or even on foot. In fact, shared transport works best when combined with public transport. Say for instance, you are in Valletta and want to go to Gzira for a meeting. First, you can go to work using a bus – which is still the most convenient way to arrive in Valletta. But to use the bus to go to Gzira will then take too much time (especially if you are already late for that meeting). Using a car, being owned or shared, may also take time due to possible congestion along the way. A more convenient option would be to use the ferry to get to Sliema – that takes 10 minutes. Book a bike from the station next to the ferry landing site, cycle to Gzira, and leave the bike at the station. If it is raining, you can use a shared car to head back – and use the Bus Priority lane since all shared vehicles are electric.
The use of shared vehicles also comes completely hassle free since, once the user completes a journey using a shared vehicle, the user need not think of that vehicle again. Combined together, the services give very flexible options which can be adapted according to the needs of your journey.
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E-MOBILITY Alfa Romeo teases electric concept lfa Romeo is breaking into the electric car world revealing the new concept of the Alfa Romeo Tonale compact SUV at the Geneva International Motor Show 2019. The Tonale is the first plug-in hybrid and the first compact utility vehicle by Alfa Romeo. It rewrites the rules of today's fastest growing segment using the manufacturer's trademark language of Italian style and unparalleled driving pleasure. The design of the Tonale is inspired by the unmistakable and modern style typical of Alfa Romeo, striking the perfect blend of valued heritage and anticipation of new ideas. The Tonale encapsulates time-honoured design elements that are synonymous with the rich history of Alfa Romeo, with an execution that adds a modern approach to the new Alfa
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4,500 drivers register with Malta’s first green car sharing fleet oTo, the island’s first national car sharing service, has surpassed expectations and in just four months close to 4,500 drivers have registered to use its fleet of electric cars. An average 410 trips a day are being recorded, with Friday and Saturday being the two most popular days of the week, according to Car Sharing Services Malta CEO Liran Golan. “Just last weekend we hit a record 500 trips, and if this growth pattern is maintained over the next two months, we will consider expanding our fleet by another 50 vehicles to reach 200,” Mr Golan said. This €8 million initiative, run by Car Sharing Services Malta, a subsidiary of CAR2GO Israel, and established in collaboration with Transport Malta, ties in with government plans to introduce alternative transportation modes, and reduce dependency on private cars. According to the company’s latest figures, more than 65 per cent are using this service more than five times a month and 15 per cent are making 20 trips a month. Although the service has proved to be a tempting alternative for drivers of all ages, those aged 25 to 31 are the ones who this service the most (33 per cent). The heaviest usage of GoTo cars has been experienced mostly in Valletta, Sliema, Ta’ Xbiex, Msida, the airport and Cirkewwa, while the average length of time spent driving a GoTo car is 23 minutes. Drivers have quickly caught on to the advantage of having a guaranteed parking space in Sliema or St Julian’s, and some are splitting the cost of the trip for a cheaper, more eco-friendly journey, according to users’ comments. The initiative, which is intended to tap into the global green trend to shift from ownership to usership to get around congested cities, will help reduce traffic in the Maltese Islands in the longer term. “The feedback and take-up of the service has been extremely encouraging and it clearly shows that those living in Malta are looking for alternatives to owning a car,” Mr Golan said. By May the company is also planning to roll out the second phase of its project which will be created for longer return journeys. The user will be able to book cars up to three months in advance, as well as pick up and return the car to the same spot.
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Romeo anatomy. Bold, elegant, and unconventional, the Alfa Romeo Tonale is a harmony of racing heritage and innovation. The driver-oriented interior boasts an original layout and is designed to comfortably carry four passengers. The contrast created by the use of rich materials, such as aluminium, leather, and Alcantara, reveals a craftsmanship beneath the technological phenomenon. The Tonale interior provides an inclusive environment, with details typically reserved for more exclusive experience. Equipped with the highest standards of technology, the Alfa Romeo Tonale offers a superior connected, comfortable and dynamic user experience, with an accent on the famed sporty performance that the Italian carmaker is known for. The Alfa Romeo Tonale is Alfa Romeo’s look
into the future of the CUV segment, creating a holistic creative expression, delivering the best driving dynamics in the segment and to apply electrification in perfect Alfa Romeo style. It is the natural evolution of the brand on the way towards propulsive synergy capable of enhancing performance and driving dynamics. Rather than simply adapting to new standards, with the Tonale concept car Alfa Romeo is reinterpreting its own DNA to capture the new
idea of beauty, energy, harmony, efficiency and driving user-friendliness. The electrification of Alfa Romeo comes at the service of sportiness and emphasises the famous "Mechanics of Emotions" mission of the brand. For more information on Alfa Romeo, visit the showroom in Psaila Street, Birkirkara, send an email to alfasales@motorsinc.com.mt, or log onto the Alfa Romeo Malta Facebook page.
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E-MOBILITY