Alternative Energy

Not 40 mph, but 40 kph, which is 25 mph. Still a fantastic record. While most electric cars are struggling with a range of around 20 miles, these guys went 625 miles. Good job.

Well,

It certainly is a step in the right direction, but the Nissan Leaf which is considerably bigger (heavier) than the vehicle pictured can run 100 miles on a single charge at speeds of up to 90 mph. Their battery is also a lithium ion battery. However, I would rather go 100 miles in a little over an hour than clunk along at 25 mph. I’m sure it’s apples and oranges but the end result is that we have to come up with a battery that allows “us” to travel reasonable distances in practical vehicles at normal highway speeds… but I’m very glad we are trying.

A great advancement in Li-ion batteries’ technology.

I believe that Sanyo, after beating their own record in distance per charge, they should be now planning to improve the average speed.

Personally, I’d be very happy to have an electric car which can cover that 1000 kms at 80 km/hr average speed with a single charge.

At least there’s somebody trying this, that’s why they have prospered and Detroit is in ruins, they think fuel economy, Detroit keeps thinking POWER and 60 mph in 2-3 seconds, WHO gives a hoot about that in times like this, that big oil keeps thinking 5 dollars/gallon on an everyday quest? I know they are not fast now, but at least they are trying.

Thanks

Hey, I’m with you fellas! I signed up last month to purchase a Nissan Leaf. They are due out sometime in December 2010. I live on an island in Alaska and 95% of our electricity is produced through hydro power. We’ve got about 30 miles of paved road and it’s the fourth largest “city” in Alaska. I commute about 20 miles per day and what Nissan is offering would be perfect. Looking forward to the “electrification of transportation”. I think battery technology is going to improve dramatically in the future, which will make electrics competitive will ICE vehicles . . . and no gas/oil.

Come on guys. Your comments miss the mark. Yes it is good that the range could be 1000kms. And that does translate into more range at higher speeds BTW.

BUT.. What idiot would travel 1000kms without stopping. That is just plain stupid and dangerous.

Better to have fast charging capability and the charging stations availability (well they are pretty simple to set up). Who in their right mind would have a problem stopping every few hundred kilometers (say 300-500kms for a coffee and a quick charge). You definitely do not need 1000kms range.

I see some manufacturers marketing off massive ranges like this. For an ICE car it just means lugging round more weight in fuel. Big benefit guys.