Automotive company HWP are set to go green in a bid to be more environmentally-friendly with the launch of a new line of high-quality, electric scooters on the Bermuda market.

The Zapino scooter has a powerful electric motor and a silicone battery pack, and it will be registered as a 50cc auxiliary cycle.

"We are thrilled to bring the Zapino Electric scooter to the Bermuda market," said Jonathan Brewin, president and CEO. "HWP is committed to introducing more environmentally-friendly options to our full line-up of cars and bikes and we work closely with manufacturers to source the best options for the Island.

"After extensive and careful research, we chose the Zapino Electric scooter because of its outstanding quality. We believe that this scooter will address the increasing demand for 'green' vehicles that offer alternatives to traditional fuel-powered options.

It is also the latest in a long line of 'green' products it is marketing and selling on the Island.

"The introduction of this product to the market also complements our 'green' commitment in other divisions such as HomeZone, where we distribute a full line of General Electric Compact Fluorescent Lightbulbs."

"The Zapino Electric scooter can travel 70 kilometres before the battery needs to be recharged," says Michael Rawlins, senior sales manager of the cycle division at HWP. "To recharge the battery, a normal 120 watt power outlet is all that is required. With a five amp charger, the scooter will need six to eight hours to fully recharge.

"With a 10 amp charger, it will take three to four hours to fully recharge the battery. As the vehicle doesn't require oil or gas, the scooter is incredibly clean and requires minimal service. For individuals interested in helping to limit fuel emissions and reduce our carbon footprint on the planet, the Zapino Electric scooter is a great option."

Even after counting emissions from power plants, electric scooters pollute the environment much less than gas vehicles. For every 500 miles an electric bike is used in place of a car, an average of 25 gallons of fuel is saved and this much pollution is prevented: 3.42 pounds of hydrocarbons; 25.28 pounds of carbon monoxide; and 1.77 pounds of nitrogen oxides.

The Zapino Electric scooters will arrive in Bermuda next month and will be on display at HWP's cycle division on St. John's Road. The Zapino Electric scooter will sell for $3,650 and will be available initially in black, silver and royal blue.