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On Friday, the Bay Harbor Foundation, with the help of Global Electric Motorcars (GEMs), championed clean driving while also setting the world record for the longest parade of electric vehicles — with 218 participating.“We don’t quit here,” said Candace Fitzsimons, executive director for the Bay Harbor Foundation. “I think this was an opportunity for people to see that we’re on the cutting edge — we want to challenge other communities throughout the world to use non-fossilized fuel products.”
David Johnson, Bay Harbor developer, said they barely made the Guinness Book of World Record quota, which was to have more than 200 electric vehicles drive in-line for two miles.
“Three days ago, we only had 100 (vehicles) — people said we couldn’t do it, but we never give up ... we always hit our goals,” he said. “It’s a statement around the world from little Bay Harbor — it shows that great things can happen in Michigan; that people can make a difference and they can change the world.”
Danny Girton, Jr., executive adjudicative manager for the Guinness Book of World Records, said this was the first attempt of its kind recognized by Guinness.
“(Bay Harbor Foundation) came to us with a great idea — this is what we look for, making something ordinary into an extraordinary, world-class record event.”
Girton said Guinness receives around 1,000 applications each week from those wanting to set world records, however, he says, only 3 percent become certified achievements.
Girton said he believes that Bay Harbor Foundation’s world-record attempt was unique.
“I think it’s exciting to see people show creativity,” he said. “I appreciate the determination that they showed in what they set out to do, and what they eventually achieved.
“I really encourage everyone to give it a shot.”
