The third day of the 2012 Macao International Environmental Co-operation Forum and Exhibition (2012MIECF) was designated as Green Public Day. Four models of ecological cars were offered for test drive by the public. Said activity has attracted both local residents and tourists to experience for themselves the characteristics of those cars. Many feel that this is a rare opportunity to experience an innovative technology. Four models of ecological cars were offered for test drive, including, Mitsubishi´s MiEV and Minicab MiEV, 2 units of Segway´s 2-wheel electric car, and a pure aerodynamic experimental car. Mitsubishi´s Minicab MiEV is exhibiting for the first time outside Japan. Both Minicab MiEV and MiEV uses the same technology, engine and battery, but with different designs, in the form of commercial trucks and family cars, respectively. Their maximum speed is 130 km per hour, and both can use domestic power supply for charging, needing about 7 hours for a full charge. If combined with a fast charging system, only half an hour will be required to fill 80% of the required power. Miss Vong, who went for a test ride in a Minicab MiEV, said she was happy with the experience, as the inside is comfortable, the acceleration is stable, with little vibration and produces less noise than conventional cars. She said that she would consider using electric cars only if Macao had sufficient charging station and repair and maintenance technology, and stated that price is just a minor consideration. The advantage of Segway´s one-passenger standing electric vehicle is that it is able to save parking space and reduces carbon emissions. Maximum speed is about 20 km. Segway is also suitable for disabled people needing prostheses to walk. After testing the vehicle, Miss Fan said that she finds it interesting and that is easy to control. Another car offered for test ride is a pure aerodynamic experimental car, which uses compressed air as power source, requiring no fuel or battery to operate. After compressed, the air is store in a compressed air tank. Through compressed air power, the cylinder of the engine pushes the piston-driven engine to run. Inflating time is about 5 minutes, and 65 litres of high-pressure air can travel about 50 km. Respective running energy cost is similar to that electric cars. Mr. Chan, who has taken a test drive in the said car, thinks the, like conventional cars, the aerodynamic car also produces engine noise and vibration.
