August 5, 2007 by Rob.

I was reading a post on EVworld that makes the (now obvious) point that “I am green” factor is an important part of selling hybrids. That reminded that it’s time to put some indication that my fellow commuters are breathing a tiny bit less CO2 and ICE pollution since they are following the RAVolt.

Does the sign give me bonus eco-snob points when parked next to a Prius? I hope so!

Will there be a eco-explosion when I park next to a Hummer? I hope not! Honestly, I feel like I’m boiling the ocean when I drive beside one of those whales; unfortunately, there is a huge herd of them in Westlake.

Posted in Green Tech, Pictures, Storyline | 1 Comment »

August 5, 2007 by Rob.

It’s worth taking note when Dean Kamen, inventor of the Segway, announces something a little beyond conventional thinking.  Kamen is suggesting using a Stirling cycle engine as the generator for range extended EVs.  The EV + generator = hybrid is not particularly new, but Stirling cycles have not been included as the typical source because they do not generate that much power.  More traditional generators include are hydrogen (see fools’ gold) or a small ICE (see Chevy Volt).  Stirling engines are very simple and efficient; however, they do not scale well and are generally considered toys.  The problem is that larger Stirling engines need big heat sinks.

Posted in EV News | 1 Comment »

August 5, 2007 by Rob.

Out of the blue yesterday, Laura said she agreed with me that the big oil companies are keeping gas prices artificially low to suppress demand for alternative energy.  She sited the rocking price of crude and our missing predicted summer $5/gallon price spike.  Even without the historical graph, it’s obvious that Big Oil does not want consumers asking for alternatives.

It was easy to find an analysis that confirms that Big Oil finds a way to reduce costs when Americans are interested in conservation & alternatives.  The last major push was during the 70’s oil embargo and Japanese compact cars made major inroads and we had a 55 mph national speed limit.

Note: Want to see which cars are most efficient?

Posted in Green Tech, EV News | 1 Comment »