Originally published on metropolis.co.jp on October 2009

Koji Miura

What: Japan EV Festival 2009
Where: Tsukuba Circuit, Ibaraki Prefecture
When: Nov 3 (Culture Day), 8am-4:30pm
Why: As global CO2 levels continue to rise and oil stocks plummet, suddenly even the most dedicated gas guzzlers are starting to take electric cars seriously. Chances are that attendance will be higher than usual at the Japan Electric Vehicle Club’s annual bash, where budding inventors and enthusiasts get a chance to show off their zero-emission autos. Events include a one-hour distance challenge for converted EVs and a high-speed racing demo, while visitors can also check out the latest commercially available eco cars.
Access: 15 min taxi ride from Sodo stn (Kanto Railway)
Info: www.jevc.gr.jp/festival2009