Currently two car manufactures, Nissan and GM, are set to release their idea of an electric car by the end of 2010. The Nissan Leaf is capable of travel up to 100 miles per charge and retails for $32,780.00. The Chevy Volt at $41,000.00 travels around 40 miles before resorting to stored premium grade gasoline.
Both manufacturers are hedging the rise in gasoline prices as one of the selling points, much like LED lighting and rising energy costs. Tax incentives are available, at both federal and state levels.
The idea of having an electric car available in dealerships is brilliant, and I hope that more cities move to install charging stations. San Francisco and Rio de janero have systems in place, the latter being owned by Pertrobras and running on solar powered. We must accelerate the need for electric charging stations throughout the US. If we do this, I believe many people will ignore the high price tags and go for the zero emission choice.
Honestly, when I first saw the Segway I though it was idiotic. Especially in the way it was promoted, it was touted as a life changing invention. Once looking past my feelings I realized the true capability. Let’s concentrate on reducing carbon footprints from the ground up. In Atlanta, Segways are used for city ambassadors to travel downtown. It is a great idea and it should be applied with more vigor. I hope automobiles seriously follow suit.