Defining Micro Transit Vehicles

A Micro Transit Vehicle (MTV) is an electric vehicle that carries more passengers and weighs more than those vehicles now permitted as a Low Speed Vehicle (LSV) . MTVs are available in the market place and serve as transporters for 8 to 24 persons; they may be solar-electric or electric powered.  College campuses, military bases, parks, resorts and other communities with privately owned streets are perfect locations for creating Micro Transit Vehicle opportunities now.  On private roads, Micro Transit Vehicles can be legally driven; driving MTVs legally on public roads requires local or state legislation.

For communities, the establishmnet of a Solar Electric Transportation (SET) Zone may be the best first step to stimulate Micro Transit Vehicle (MTV) systems.  Within specific geographic SET zones, solar MTVs, transporting 8 to 24 people, would be designated as street legal vehicles.  SET Zones would allow MTVs to deliver mobility in downtown and suburban areas that has already been tried and tested in resort communities.  SET zones provide a lower cost, flexible option for growing transit systems. An exciting role for MTVs is the ability to customize vehicles, rather than plan around the handful of existing transit types (e.g. buses, light rail). For instance, MTVs with special features can transport elderly persons after evening cultural events, handicapped persons to and through recreational area, and sports spectators from remote parking areas.

INTERESTED? CALL MARY ANNE BOWIE, FAICP,                                                ETA SUSTAINABILITY LEADER  941-355-6371