Why Was The Electric Car Ignored For So Long?
February 10, 2011 by admin
Filed under Electric Cars
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Were you aware of the fact that the electric car was one of the very first automobiles and that electric cars were literally overlooked and ignored in favor of gasoline powered internal combustion vehicles? The concept of electric cars is quite often thought to be a by-product of an oil-weary culture, and environmentally aware society, but it actually is one of the original automobile design concepts. In laymans terms, the concept was primarily an electric carriage without the horse. The first of these electric vehicles were designed and developed in Europe and evolved into efficient, high-capacity, battery-operated autos by the early 1880′s, and yes, that is 1880, not 1980! These electric cars did not require any sort of shifting gears, so had automatic transmissions, so to speak. They also were much quieter for obvious reasons, and of course, much, much cleaner than their rivals, the gas powered, internal combustion engine cars.
The Electric Car History
So what happened?
For starters, as American roads got longer, people developed the need for cars that could be driven for much longer distances, and that could be refueled conveniently. Another factor for the lack of development of these vehicles was the decline in American oil prices, making gas-powered cars cheaper to run. The other major deciding factor on why the gas powered automobiles were chosen over the electric car was that Henry Ford has developed the assembly line manufaacturing model for manufacturing his gas-powered autos, making the gasoline car even more affordable at the time these vehicles came into prominence.
But as this other type of car was all but gone, it was not forgotten. We are still discussing it well over a hundred years later, primarily because it is a great idea, and it does not rely on toxic oil to power it, among other similar drawbacks, like oil to lubricate it and so forth. Now we are making technological advances for which it is making a strong comeback, as the dangers and costs of using and burning oil become looming issues. Listed below are are some of the more conventional modern benefits of the electric automobile.
Advantages of Electric Cars
* Better for the Environment – These cars do not emit any toxic or otherwise harmful exhaust fumes, which makes for much cleaner air and less overall greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, as automobiles account for roughly 25% of our greenhouse gas emissions. There is one potential drawback, which is the unpleasant business of battery disposal when it wears out, but that has been greatly reduced with exciting new technologies which is making the recycling of the batteries to fuel these autos possible. Another advantage of these vehicles is that these clean cars are not going to spring a leak and pollute the environment with oil, or other toxic waste like gas.
Th electric car also uses a very surprisingly limited amount of electricity to charge their batteries, which greatly reduces any concerns about the use of large amounts of electricity generated from fossil fuel elecrtical plants to recharge them, which was one of my major concerns with the use of these vehicles.
* Inexpensive – These cars are generally less expensive to purchase than conventional, gas-powered vehicles. And of course, they do not use gasoline. As the price of gasoline continues to be climb higher and higher, this will result in a great amount of savings for the average gas car user.
* Reliability and Ease of Maintainance – Electrical battery powered cars do not need the conventional oil changes as their counterparts, and they also have fewer moving parts in the engine. This translates into the fact that you don’t have to replace or the belts, cooling hoses, engine spark plugs, exhaust mufflers, and such, leading to better economy to the consumer. Another positive point for these efficient cars is that they have a life expectancy that runs into the millions of miles, and not the hundreds of thousands which conventional cars are generally limited to. According to some trusted sources, the average electric car will last a good 90 years if you drive it 50 miles a day, and at that rate, even driving one of these 100 miles a day or more is a fantastic deal!
* Safety – If you happen to be involved in an accident in one of these cars, there is also no imminent danger of any leaking, flammable fuel igniting at the crash scene, nor toxic waste being spilled on the site and needing special crews for cleaning up the mess.
* Quieter – In our conventional gas powered cars, road and engine noise can make conversation between front and back seat passengers rather difficult, and in some cases, nearly impossible. Another positive aspect of these vehicles is that if you’ve ever stood near a highway, you know how polluting and annoying all that noise is. These old, but new, multi-level efficient electric cars are much, much quieter, allowing a drive through the countryside, park, or neighborhood without creating an annoyance to nearby residents, visitors, or nature and creating any noisy disturbances. Another point is that your passengers can actually talk amongst each other and discuss the scenery or other topics in your electric car without having to strain to speak or listen!
Brian is a writer, environmentalist, entrepreneur, activist, web developer and consultant. Current projects are related to global ethical issues and the human involvement and interactions with the environment and creating a better understanding of it’s importance to all of us and to spread the word that it is in all of our best interests not to ignore what we are doing to our home, or think it is okay to dump toxic waste into our drinking water, or poison the air we breath, or the food we eat. There are many issues at stake here, and we must address these now, before we run out of options. There is still time to limit the amount of damage that will occur because of our negligent actions, but that time frame is diminishing with each and every day. My website Green Planet Ethics is devoted to healthy alternatives to our current choices, as well as news, weather, and other topics related to ethics and the environment, and offers ideas on how they can be combined. Discussions and comments on the current issues are more than welcome too! Peace my friends on earth and good will to man!
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All About Biodiesel : How Long Does it Take to Make Biodiesel?
January 6, 2011 by admin
Filed under Fuel Economy
Biodiesel takes 10 to 20 hours a week to collect the products and make the fuel; learn more from our biodiesel expert in this free alternative-fuel use video. Expert: Craydon Blair Bio: Craydon Blair has been involved in producing biodiesel since 2003. Filmmaker: joseph wilkins
Pod Rods: Camaro convertible fans, the long wait is almost over
November 20, 2010 by admin
Filed under Electric Cars
Toyota says its EV would be cheaper than others
Source: Reuters TOKYO, Nov 18 (Reuters) – Toyota Motor Corp’s <7203.T> battery-powered electric car will have the advantage of being cheaper than models offered by other car makers, a top executive said on …
Read more on AlertNet
In-demand Leaf prompts Nissan to reduce the number of dealer demos:
Nissan’s U.S. dealers will each give up one of their electric Leaf demo cars as the factory tries to satisfy initial demand for the car.
Read more on AutoWeek
DOE may give tax breaks to e-vehicle makers
The Energy Department on Friday said it is willing to support the granting tax perks to manufacturers of electric vehicles — or e-vehicles — as the country is on the lookout for ways to reduce pollution and mitigate the impact of high oil prices.
Read more on GMA News
Ford Names First Markets to Sell Focus Electric, the Company’s First All-Electric Passenger Car
DEARBORN, MI – November 15, 2010: Ford Motor Company has announced first markets that will sell the Focus Electric, Ford’s first all-electric, zero CO2-emissions passenger car.
Read more on The Auto Channel
Pod Rods: Camaro convertible fans, the long wait is almost over
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Read more on The Florida Times-Union
how long have you been using hydrogen cells for your car?
October 22, 2010 by admin
Filed under Hydrogen Cars
if you used it on other combustables besides cars do tell me.
i dont want to hear its a scam. im only researching before experimenting.
my questions toward hho is: who here has been using hho for years and had no problems so far with their vehicle of choice? and what is the best choice of metal to use for first time experiment?
im looking for people that have been using them for a while.
Long Island Camry Hybrid Part Of Toyota’s Impressive Fuel Efficient Lineup
September 18, 2010 by admin
Filed under Fuel Economy
Consumer Reports said it and consumers apparently believe it as they continue to flock to their Long Island Camry hybrid dealer for Toyota models which were rated among the most efficient. Toyota can lay claim to six of the top 15 fuel-efficient models.
Although Long Island Toyota RAV4 customers won’t find their model on the list since only cars were included, there are so many other Toyota models on the list that those loyal to the brand won’t be at a loss if their main criterion for the next purchase is great mileage.
Coming in first with nearly unbelievable mileage numbers of 55 highway and 43 city was Toyota Prius IV, one the biggest Toyota successes in years. The Prius model is being expanded into an entire family of cars, including the plug-in hybrid set to debut later this year and a model with solar roof panels. Prius owners are a breed unto themselves and not only are loyal, but eagerly anticipate the greener models to come.
Long Island Camry hybrid customers will be pleased to know their model rated sixth in overall fuel efficiency with 28 mpg city and 41 mpg highway. Other Toyota brand vehicles appearing in this prestigious list include: Scion xD in ninth place; Yaris base sedan in 13th place; Corolla LE in 14th place; and Corolla (base, manual) rounding out the list in 15th place.
Test criteria for the Consumer Reports include measurements of fuel economy, which come from using a precision flow meter and are rounded to the nearest mile per gallon. Overall mileage for each vehicle is calculated from equal portions of city and expressway driving on a 150-mile trip. Consumer Reports issues these reports annually after conducting extensive tests.
Okay, for you Long Island Toyota RAV4 owners, Consumer Reports also compiles a list of most fuel-efficient SUVs and Toyota Highlander hybrid rated fourth on that list with an overall mpg rating of 24. In fifth place, Toyota RAV4 (base, 4 cyl.) had a 23 overall rating. Toyota RAV4 Limited (V6) placed 11th with an overall mpg of 22. Does this mean the gas hog SUV is a thing of the past?
With all the new hybrids and innovative fuel-saving ideas being produced by Toyota and planned for production in the near future, imagine where the Toyota models may rate in the next fuel-efficiency test. The plug-in Prius will certainly figure into the equation, and who knows how the solar-powered model might measure up.
Despite the recall nightmare that Toyota is embroiled in, not only does customer loyalty seem to have been retained, but the fuel-efficiency of many models and the new hybrids waiting in the wings may just be the boost Toyota needs to stay on top and bring in new buyers.
In today’s economy, when car buyers are looking for a bargain at the register as well as on the road, Toyota has stepped up to the plate and offered consumers what they asked for: clean, green and not-too-mean on the wallet.
Tyler Welch is a freelance writer who concentrates on the auto industry. His article features relevant local information for Long Island Camry Hybrid owners and discusses the Long Island Toyota RAV4.
how long has the oil comp. kept the hydrogen run car from us?
September 12, 2010 by admin
Filed under Hydrogen Cars
i herd recently a hydo run car will be on the market….but ive herd a long time ago they had a working model…..why dosnt anyone care?
How to prepare your automobile for long term storage.
August 31, 2010 by admin
Filed under Electric Cars
If you are leaving town for an extended period of time or are
storing a vehicle for seasonal use, there are several things you
can do to protect your automobile and insure it will be ready
for use when you retrieve it. Taking the time to prepare your
car right will save you a lot of grief and money later on.
The first step is to find a suitable location for long term
storage. This is critical. The location should be secure, dry
and clean. Putting it in a dusty barn is probably one of the
worst places for you car. Make sure the storage place is dry and
free of moisture. Moisture, humidity and condensation are the
biggest hazards to exterior, interior and engine. Rust and
corrosion can form on exposed metal and mold and mildew can grow
in the interior as well. The best place is a climate controlled
storage facility. Just look under storage in the yellow pages
and there should be some options for you.
Also, you will need to rodent proof your storage as well. Rats
can destroy the wiring system. They can also get into the
interior and build nests there. One option is to place rat
poison or some other pest control device around the car. Ma If
the storage unit has power to it, I would recommend getting a
noise box that repels rats and mice. You can buy them at your
local hardware store. These are very safe and will not hurt pets
or children.
Once you have picked a suitable location, it is time to prepare
your car.
Step one is to change the oil and replace it with a synthetic.
Changing the oil before storage will reduce moisture in the
system and help prevent corrosion in the engine. The reason for
synthetic oil is because of the coating properties and it will
not break down as quickly as conventional oil.
Now you will need to fill the gas tank completely full. Most
people siphon out the gas and leave the tank empty. This is not
correct and the moisture left in the empty tank will encourage
rust. Fill the tank as high as you can and leave it. This will
prevent moisture from forming and prevent rust accumulation. It
is also prudent to add in a gas stabilizer as well.
The next step is the battery. If the vehicle is in for short
term storage, you may want to hook up battery charger to the
battery. This will insure all electrical equipment like stereo
will have power and any saved settings will be there when you
return. For longer periods of time, remove the battery.
Batteries can crack and leak acid everywhere. In this case it is
best to just remove it and replace it when you return.
The next area to prepare is the external weather stripping and
tires. The best product to use for this is a lithium grease.
Stay away from petroleum based products. They will eventually
dry out and crack the rubber. To apply the grease, spray it on a
rag first and then wipe it on the tires and weather stripping.
Be sure to cover the gaskets in the doors, sunroof and trunk.
For the interior, use a leather or vinyl conditioner. This will
safeguard these surfaces from cracking and drying.
The last step is to thoroughly clean the exterior. After you
have washed it, apply a coat of wax and buff it out. If you have
an air buffer, this process will be a lot easier and will be
more effective. Then cover the car with a good quality car
cover. If you follow these basic steps, your expensive
automobile should be in the same shape you left it before your
journey.
Jason is the webmaster for Red Hill Supply.
Designer Felt Earth Tone Apple Green 3MM Thick x 70.9 Inch Wide x 3 Feet Long
June 24, 2010 by admin
Filed under Going Green
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The Felt Store’s Earth Tone Designer Felts are crafted of pressed, carbonized 100% high grade wool. Designer Felts are known for their durable, fabric-like finish. Vibrantly colored and water repellant, these Designer Felts have unlimited possibilities of use. Designer Felt density is between F1 to F5 grade industrial felts, and weight is approximately 26 oz. per square yard. Available in 3mm thickness. Also available in Apple Green, Black, Bright Red, Burgundy, Charcoal, Dark Blue, Dark Brown, Dark Gray, Dark Red, Fuschia, Light Brown, Light Gray, Mango, Olive, Orange, Sky Blue, Teal and Yellow. Search For Them On Amazon!
In the short term, high oil prices are bad for the economy – however does this hold true for the long run?
June 1, 2010 by admin
Filed under Hydrogen Cars
In the long run it may force US consumers to purchase more fuel efficient automobiles, or invent entirely new forms of alternative transportation (electric, hydrogen, fuel cells, etc, etc)
What do you think?
Hybrid Electric Vehicles Join UPS Fleet in Long Island
May 31, 2010 by admin
Filed under Fuel Economy
Michelin to Launch the 10th Michelin Challenge Bibendum this Weekend in Rio de Janeiro
PARIS, May 27 — The 10th Michelin Challenge Bibendum will be held this year in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, from Sunday, May 30, 2010 to Thursday, June 3.
Read more on The Auto Channel
Why Wal-Mart Wants to Take the Driver’s Seat
It wants to grab control of deliveries from manufacturers. Suppliers’ shipping costs may be passed on to other retailers
Read more on BusinessWeek
For Summer Driving Trips, Goodyear Offers a Suitcase Full of Smart Travel Advice
read more
Read more on SYS-CON Media
Britain gives go-ahead for first export of household waste for burning
Britain is dumping its rubbish on other European countries as councils struggle to deal with the growing waste mountain.
Read more on Daily Telegraph
Hybrid Electric Vehicles Join UPS Fleet in Long Island
LONG ISLAND—-UPS today announced its fleet of alternative-fuel vehicles had expanded with the deployment of 25 next-generation hybrid electric delivery trucks to Long Island.
Read more on Business Wire via Yahoo! Finance