Village fete becomes first in the world to be powered entirely by electric cars

A small village fete has become the first event of its kind in the world – to be powered entirely by electric cars. A fleet of 12 battery-powered Hyundai vehicles were used to run the family fun day out last weekend in Chettle, Dorset.

The IONIQ 5, IONIQ 6, and KONA Electric cars helped to power the entertainment on the main stage, the cash registers at the stalls, and the freezers for the ice-cream.

And villagers were left “astonished” by how smoothly everything ran – as Hyundai aimed to educate people on how innovation can play a key role in a more sustainable life.

The car brand also commissioned research of 1,000 Brits, which found that more than two-thirds (68%) already consider themselves to be eco-friendly – following an average of five sustainable habits already.

However, over half of those polled say they have made changes in the last 12 months to be more sustainable – with two-thirds trying to limit their food waste.

Meanwhile, 64% have made more of an effort to turn off lights around their home, while the same number try to take Bags For Life to use at the supermarket.

Others are washing laundry on cold cycles (45%), growing their own fruit and vegetables (30%), and cycling more (18%).

And a third have even changed their food habits to become more eco-friendly – including only buying local produce, not purchasing items in plastic packaging, and doing meat-free Mondays.

However, it emerged that four in ten of those who reside in the countryside find it hard to maintain eco-friendly measures – compared to just 16% of city-dwellers.

The cost (48%) and poor public transport (45%) were found to be the main barriers for people in the countryside living more sustainable lives.

And half of those living in a rural area claim they want to do better, but find it challenging due to the lack of infrastructure.

As a result, only 8% of countryside folk class themselves as “very eco-friendly” – although 72% have tried to limit their food waste, while 69% recycle everything possible.

Despite this, 39% want to move to the countryside because it’s quieter, to enjoy the scenic views, and to experience cleaner air than in the city, according to the study, carried out via OnePoll.

Ashley Andrew, President of Hyundai Motor UK, which powered the village fete using its all new KONA Electric, IONIQ 5, and IONIQ 6, said: “We chose the rural community of Chettle as we were impressed by the focus on safeguarding its beautiful landscape for the future, as well as acting in a more environmentally responsible way, which aligns with our ethos.

“We hope that the event inspires the broader community to think creatively about what they can do in their own lives to live better for the future.

“As we move forward to a net-zero future, we believe EVs offer many benefits, and consumer education remains an important part of that journey.”

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