Technically Geeking: I Sing the (Auto) Body Electric
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a blogumn by Justin Time
Since etc and CH bought a new car, it seems only fitting that I bring it back to electric cars this week. Lately, I’ve been drooling over early Porsches, as the ultimate sports car, they have an important place in my heart. Even though restoring an old car is a form of recycling, the emissions and crude oil consumption aspect is in sharp contrast to the future of automobiles that I want to see. Many industrious Porsche owners have converted their old cars to electric, like this one, but it’s expensive and labor intensive.
A new electric car would be a dream come true – brand new parts, a warranty, and mechanics to handle the trouble spots – but how much longer do I have to wait?! Here are some things to look forward to in the next couple years:
1. Mini Cooper is already testing electric cars here in LA – why didn’t they pick me? Here’s a review.
2. Honda just showed off the EV-N (pictured), aka the most adorable concept car ever, at the Tokyo auto show. If you are more inclined to 2-wheel transport and a lower budget, they are also planning an electric version of the best selling Moped ever – the Honda Cub.
3. Nissan is showing off the Leaf this weekend in Santa Monica and Glendale. You can be sure I’ll be there to check it out.
These should all be cheaper alternatives to the Tesla Model S that I’ve mentioned before.
Let me know if I’m missing any other good ones. Me Want Electric Car!
The Mini is only a two seater. Ah crap! Also, it seems a little like driving a golf cart with the gas pedal always having to be down…
The Mini is only a two seater. Ah crap! Also, it seems a little like driving a golf cart with the gas pedal always having to be down…
I stil want the Tesla
I stil want the Tesla
Damn, I didn't realize the Mini was a 2-seater. That sucks. The Nissan Leaf looks decent, and they seem to be positioned as first to market (Late 2010) with an affordable EV ($27,000).
It has a back seat and doesn't look totally stupid.
That Honda is ridiculously cute, but it's too much of a concept car right now. I don't need an electric unicycle in the door, and the Aeron seat backs seem like a recipe for death.
Damn, I didn't realize the Mini was a 2-seater. That sucks. The Nissan Leaf looks decent, and they seem to be positioned as first to market (Late 2010) with an affordable EV ($27,000).
It has a back seat and doesn't look totally stupid.
That Honda is ridiculously cute, but it's too much of a concept car right now. I don't need an electric unicycle in the door, and the Aeron seat backs seem like a recipe for death.
The EV-N is so cute! It looks like a piggy bank on wheels. That takes you places.
I'm so glad companies are finally getting on this. Now we just need solar charging stations and we'll be free from oil forever! Wha ha ha ha!
You'd need a piggy bank that big to save up for it I bet, and I think if you started now, you'd save enough by the time this piggy comes to market.
As far as charging facilities, a number of cities are building the infrastructure you are talking about. San Diego and Tucson come to mind. That's one thing Nissan is supposed to be doing with the leaf – setting up quick charge stations with major cities.
The sad thing is that Honda would perfect for younger people but it's probably going to be at such a price point that younger people won't be able to afford it. Hopefully by the time Betty starts driving, tiny electric cars will be a lot cheaper. Sigh.
The EV-N is so cute! It looks like a piggy bank on wheels. That takes you places.
I'm so glad companies are finally getting on this. Now we just need solar charging stations and we'll be free from oil forever! Wha ha ha ha!
You'd need a piggy bank that big to save up for it I bet, and I think if you started now, you'd save enough by the time this piggy comes to market.
As far as charging facilities, a number of cities are building the infrastructure you are talking about. San Diego and Tucson come to mind. That's one thing Nissan is supposed to be doing with the leaf – setting up quick charge stations with major cities.
The sad thing is that Honda would perfect for younger people but it's probably going to be at such a price point that younger people won't be able to afford it. Hopefully by the time Betty starts driving, tiny electric cars will be a lot cheaper. Sigh.