St. Clair firm forms partnership to build electric autos

St. Clair-based EnVironmental Transportation Solutions has struck a deal with Energy Components Group to build its electric car, the EcoV.The subcompact car is built for low speeds and to be used for short distances. Think a car made for puttering around an urban neighborhood or as part of a fleet of municipal vehicles. It’s recharged through a wall outlet.The EcoV, which retails for $12,000, has a 25-40 mile range. That can be extended to 65 miles. The vehicle is eligible for a $5,000 federal tax credit because it’s a zero-emission vehicle. The founder of the company, Richard Marks, helped produce General Motors EV1 electric car.Source: Energy Components GroupWriter: Jon Zemke