Posted by: Doug Dennis
on Aug 16, 2009
Tagged in: Untagged
This is the first of a 5 part series of blogs shedding light on the fundamentals behind the energy required for transportation purposes. In this series, we will examine the chemistry, energy, and utilization of power required to form a sound comparative basis between electric powered and gasoline powered vehicles.
Introduction & Background
Upon hearing that GM is now touting its long awaited entry in to electric vehicle (EV) market the Volt (shipping end of 2010) with mileage estimates of 230 mpg, I thought it appropriate to step back and examine some of the fundamentals around this claim. Frankly, I was aghast at this claim since many EV companies struggle to get to triple-digit mileage and wondered what math and chemistry calculations could possibly be behind these claims. This is an attempt to better understand the basics and them apply them to this claim for validation and understanding. Let's just say - I have trouble with 100 mpg much less 230 mpg.
Posted by: Doug Dennis
on Aug 01, 2009
Much can be said for the efforts that car manufacturers are making in the direction of creating green vehicles. However, with 250 million vehicles currently on the road and 2008 sales of 11 million it will require a transition of nearly 20 years to update the on-road fleet. In the mean-time, there are many things that each of us can do to increase fuel economy, reduce green house gasses, and eliminate our dependency on foreign oil. The Department of Energy's Fuel Economy Guide recommends some of the following easier tips to improve your car's green foot print.
Drive Sensibly
Aggressive driving (speeding, rapid acceleration and braking) wastes gas. It can lower your gas mileage by 33 percent at highway speeds and by 5 percent around town. Sensible driving is also safer for you and others, so you may save more than gas money.
| | Fuel Economy Benefit: | 5-33% |
| | Equivalent Gasoline Savings: | $0.12-$0.81/gallon |
