Electric cars manufactured by Miles are starting to arrive! In 2007, Miles, a company based in Santa Monica, California, was recognized as “the electric car company of the year.” Three small models are currently being imported, ranging in price from $19,500 to $24,500: the ZX40, the ZX40S and the ZX40AD. These cars can go about 50 miles at their top speed of 40 mph before it’s necessary to recharge the battery, which takes from four to six hours. The six batteries have an expected life span of four years or 30,000 miles and can be replaced for $350. (With the current exchange rate between the euro and the US dollar, this is a bargain!) Currently, because of the lack of an engine rating, these cars are not subject to the tax on vehicles instituted in St Barth at the start of 2008. That will most likely occur, but perhaps the COM will encourage these environmentally friendly cars by charging a lower annual tax.