Petrol and diesel cars may still dominate our roads, but their days are numbered. A recent university study found that current electric cars could be used for 87 per cent of daily car journeys in the US. That figure could rise to 98 per cent by 2020.

One barrier (障碍) to the widespread adoption of electric cars has been ‘range anxiety’ -- drivers’ concerns about using up juice on a journey. While petrol stations are conveniently located across national road systems, the necessary network of electric charging stations is still being developed. Nevertheless, charging points are becoming increasingly common throughout the USA.

Attitudes towards electric vehicles have changed quite considerably over the last few years. Not that long ago, electric cars were met with distrust, and their large price tags drove customers away. Thanks to improvements in battery capacity, recharging times, performance and price, the current generation of electric cars is starting to persuade critics. Plug-in cars   will soon give internal combustion engine models a run for their money.

As well as advancements on the road, electric vehicles are taking to the seas and skies. Electric boats are among the oldest methods of electric travel, having been popular for several decades from the late 19th to the early 20th century before petrol-powered outboard motors took over. Now, the global drive for renewable energy sources is bringing electric boats back. Steps towards electric air travel are also being made, with Airbus and NASA among the organizations developing and testing battery powered planes. The experiments could soon make commercial electric flight a reality.

Electric vehicles do not produce any emissions. Were the US to act on the study’s findings and replace 87 per cent of its cars with electric vehicles, it would reduce the national demand for petrol by 61 percent. However, because of the production processes and the generation of electricity required to charge these vehicles, they cannot claim to be completely emission-free. However, as many countries continue to increase their use of renewable energy sources, electric vehicles will become even cleaner.

There are three main forms of public transport in Singapore—trains, buses and taxis.

TRAINS

Trains run from 6:00 am to midnight. Single trip tickets start at 80 cents. If you buy an EZ-Link card for $15, you can ride the trains and buses as you like. If you need more information, just call Train Station at 6222-5165.

BUSES

There are several bus services in Singapore and fares start at 80 cents. Be sure always to ask the driver the cost of your ticket as he can’t give change. If you need help, just call Tran-sit Link at 1800-767-4333.

TAXIS

There are three main taxi companies—City Cab (6552-2222), Comfort (6552-1111) and Tibs (6552-8888). Booking can also be easy by calling the numbers listed above.

RENTAL CARS(租车)

Driving in Singapore is a pleasure and if you like to travel at your own pace, renting a car is a good choice. Renting takes away the hassle of getting to places around Singapore. Just sit back and enjoy the city.It also means you’ll get to see a lot more that a train or a bus won’t let you see. For car rental? call Avis at 65-6737-1668.