LEGAZPI CITY --- Bicolano businessman Elizaldy S. Co, chief executive officer of the Sunwest Group of Companies based in this city, has introduced here the much-talked-about “e-jeepney,” or electro-powered public utility vehicle that is environment friendly.

        The e-jeepney, on its introduction stage here, cruises from the multi-million commercial complex Embarcadero de Legazpi down to the city proper which is becoming a big hit to local commuters and motorists.

        Julius Pago, 32, e-jeepney driver, explained to Bicol Mail that they need to charge the standard auto battery for six to eight hours for the needed energy supply before hitting the road for a full-day mobile route.

        The eight-hour fully charged battery is enough for at least 13-hour drive around the city proper or a trip to as far as Naga City, about 100 kilometers away, provided that a back up battery should be ready for its return trip to this city, according to Pago.

        “This is fun to drive because the e-jeepney is soundless and does not emit stinking smokes compared to gasoline-driven vehicles which produce green house gas emissions that are harmful to the environment,” he said.

        Currently there are two units of e-jeepneys operating around this city but six more units will be arriving soon to give free rides to more visiting tourists and the general public.

        Elizaldy Co, 40, who pioneered the first hydro-electric power energy projects in various provinces of Bicol and in Visayas including the upcoming multi-billion peso solar and windmill energy projects in Cagraray Island, Bacacay, Albay told the Bicol Mail that his projects being established in Bicol are his own way of supporting the government’s flagship program to protect the environment.

        “As we go on with business modernization for countryside development, we must also protect our environment for our children’s future. Our very own Gov. Joey Salceda is very much active with the campaign for the protection of environment which should be emulated because environment protection is everyone’s business,” Co was quoted as saying.