The flagship two-day ‘Electric Bannau Brycheiniog’ event at the National Park Visitor Centre, near Libanus, will create a spark with visitors, business operators and local residents by giving them the chance to get behind the wheel of electric vehicles, Twizys and even climb on the saddle of an electric bike.
Hosted by the Eco Travel Network and major car manufacturer Renault, this electric extravaganza will promote the green travel options open to visitors as well as local businesses and residents. The Eco Travel Network system of charging points in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park is believed to be the most advanced in the UK, making it the perfect destination for a green travel fayre.
Representatives from Renault will be present at ‘Electric Bannau Brycheiniog’ offering test drives of vehicles from Renault’s Z.E. electric range including the Fluence and Kangoo models, and there will even be a sneak preview of the new Renault ZOE car – which has not yet been launched in the UK.
Friday, November 9 will be a ‘trade day’ aimed at local business operators, giving them the opportunity to get behind the wheel of electric vehicles manufactured by Renault, including the small, lightweight Renault Twizy. There will also be the chance to find out how to set up a charging point and join the Eco Travel Network, how it can benefit your business, and information about Twizy rental.
Saturday, November 10 will see the ‘Electric Bannau Brycheiniog’ event open to the general public. A fun agility course will be open for visitors to experience the thrill of driving a ‘rural chic’ Twizy, while test drives of Renault’s larger electric models will also be available. Organisers will promote Eco Travel Network Twizy hire and charge point locations around the area.
Ian Foster, one of the Founding Directors of the Eco Travel Network, said: “We now have seven lightweight electric vehicles buzzing around the National Park and over 38 charge points in the area and beyond. The ‘Electric Bannau Brycheiniog’ event will give local businesses, residents and visitors the chance to get hands on and learn more about sustainable travel and the Eco Travel Network.
“We have enjoyed huge support from Bannau Brycheiniog National Park Authority, Renault UK and local Renault dealer Callow Marsh, in setting up the Eco Travel Network and we are looking to expand the project in the coming year.
“To complement the network we have hardware available to donate to businesses in order to make them electric vehicle friendly, and we may be able to help with installation too.”
Annie Lawrie, Visit Transport Officer for Bannau Brycheiniog National Park Authority, said: “With petrol prices continuing to rise, electric vehicles are a viable and environmentally friendly solution. We want to promote sustainable travel in the National Park, and we’re only too happy to support the Eco Travel Network and this forward thinking venture.”
Andy Heiron, Renault UK, Head of Electric Vehicles Programme, said: “Our current three-model range has already been attracting a lot of interest, especially the unique Twizy. The proof of the pudding though is trying them out. We’re confident that after experiencing the refined and responsive driving experience of a purely electric vehicle, combined with the financial and environmental benefits of switching to an electric vehicle, potential buyers will be smitten.”
Carys Howell, Bannau Brycheiniog National Park Authority’s Member Champion for Visitor Centres, said: “Bannau Brycheiniog National Park is world-renowned for its stunning landscapes, but the area is fast gaining a reputation as a leader in the green travel stakes thanks to the innovative Eco Travel Network. The ‘Electric Bannau Brycheiniog’ event is a great opportunity for local businesses and residents to discover the exciting developments happening right on their doorstep.”
The ‘Electric Bannau Brycheiniog’ event will be open between 10:30 and 15:00 on Friday, November 9 and Saturday, November 10. Test drives for the full Renault electric vehicles need to be booked in advance by visiting www.renault.co.uk/ze-tour. If you want to drive a Renault Twizy you can turn up and drive it around the agility course on the day, but please be mindful that ALL drivers wishing to test drive a vehicle must bring a valid driving licence.
The Eco Travel Network was set-up after an initial research study into visitor transport in 2010, part-funded by the National Park Authority’s Sustainable Development Fund.
For more information about the Eco Travel Network please visit www.ecotravelnetwork.co.uk.
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