Re: Behold the Tesla Model S Quote:
Originally Posted by GTO Hats off to Tesla for being persistent. At a time when consolidation is rampant in the auto industry, here's a small independent launching what is amongst the most futuristic sedans on American roads. The company has had its fair share of controversy (with people, money et al), but it's nice to see the continually-delayed Tesla S finally roll out. |
Absolutely. They did receive a lot of help though from the federal government, but I don't begrudge them that at all. Quote:
Originally Posted by GTO Not really. I remember a reputable source mentioning that 80% of the world drives under 40 miles a day. 160 miles is more than enough for 4 - 5 days of driving for most of us, and if you drive more, the option to charge it every night is always available. |
Agreed, but somehow there's a lot more peace of mind knowing that if my regular internal combustion engine runs out of fuel all I need to do is nip into the nearest fuel bunker and refill. With all-electric cars you absolutely have to get home. The Nissan Leaf (I think) at least uses a conventional plug apparatus so you could plug it in anywhere. The Tesla uses something proprietary and more heavy duty that you'd have to get fitted at home, so chances are you won't find recharge points everywhere you go. I'm not sure about this though... Quote:
Originally Posted by GTO Battery tech is also continually improving. Batteries that can take you 1,000 kms on a full charge are probably not too far away. |
Exactly, and thats the time when I think they'll become a truly viable alternative. Right now though, I don't think all-electric is the answer.
Intelligent hybrids where you have a normal gasoline engine connected to a generator that creates electricity which drives the car (like the Fisker Karma) have the best of both worlds because they're driven by electricity which is created by regular fuel...but the benefits are (a) this is a much more efficient way of using gas, (b) near-zero emissions, and (c) the insane torque of an electric motor (and the eery quietness).
So if I had a Fisker Karma (I wish) then I would pretty much never need to worry about being stranded... regardless of how many miles I needed to crunch in a day.
I guess the bottom line is I'm happy we're developing alternatives to fossil-fuel powered internal combustion engines... and I agree that soon we'll have battery packs that have a greater capacity, a longer shelf-life, and a smaller form factor....maybe in the next 5-6 years or so. Till then, all-electric cars have some way to go. Note from the Team-BHP Support Team: Please take the time to use proper punctuation as per Team-BHP rules. Avoid...typing...like...this. Thanks.
Last edited by Technocrat : 3rd July 2012 at 23:03.
Reason: please read the note in your post, thanks
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