Becoming an early adapter can be a daunting task. Exposed to new technologies not quite understood or ideas that aren’t completely formed, early adapters are those who are willing to make the mistakes that the rest of the masses learn from. It requires the ability to grasp an ideal and run with it.

It also requires the ability to admit mistakes.

So is the case with the town of Jasper’s electric truck. The Might-E-truck has been parading through town for months and for the most part has been a welcome site. It costs next to nothing to run, it can haul gear as easily as a gas-fed counterpart around town and it acts as a symbol for Jasper’s commitment to a healthier environment.

Yet as a bylaw vehicle, it has its failings. The truck proved to be a failure in the snow, and cold temperatures threaten to sap its battery. Bylaw has expressed safety concerns about operating the truck, which is the most troubling part of a recent report on the vehicle. After a winter, it’s obvious the Might-E-Truck is out of its weight class when confronted with Rocky Mountain winters. And while the municipality did its research, much of this information should have been discovered prior to the purchase as part of the tendering process. Was this the best truck for the job? Or simply the best truck to fit a green plan. Alternatives exist.

The town of Jasper should be commended for bringing a low emissions vehicle into its municipal fleet. The concept - the ideal - behind the Might-E-truck is sound, as it is encouraging to see the municipality lead the way with such a green initiative. Although the idea was taken from Whistler, Jasper is one of the first Alberta homes for the truck and hopefully its use will inform other municipalities.

There are times when bylaw tasks require more than 15 minutes in the vehicle, and there are employees who measure more than six feet tall who will require the car. These restrictions are problematic for bylaw. A larger vehicle is necessary for prolonged trips, while a more economical bicycle would work for most of by laws tasks in the summer.

The municipality plans to use the truck for its grounds crew, where hopefully the truck’s versatility will be better served. In that role, the truck is in a better position to succeed. The Banff Centre has had success with the truck in that role. No more ‘square hole, round peg’ conundrum.

During environment week, it’s important to celebrate Jasper’s successes. However glossing over the shortcomings of emerging technology does a disservice to these efforts. If they aren’t identified, there is no opportunity to fix them, and old, gas powered technology will chug forward for another day.

Green technologies produce a glimmer of hope for the future. Let’s not be blinded by its promise.