Notes from Time, April 7, 08
Article on Biofuels
Brazil produces 5 billion gallons of sugarcane ethanol, but that is only enough to supply 45% of its transportation-fuel demands. The country is also touted as being independent of external petroleum demands. (More research required on this notion.) If 100% of US corn and soybean crops were turned to fuel production, it would only offset our need for petroleum by 20%. The significance here is that these green fuels, while producing twice as much carbon in production, remain in deficit in their goal to replace petroleum. By the percentage listed, Brazil still consumes 55% of some other fuel source; America will still need 80% of additional fuel sources (at maximum production).
I am all for green fuels. I have often spoke in their favor, given that we need to research these alternatives. Only through further research will we master the technology necessary to realize the benefits. However, the premature utilization of these technologies has been detrimental to their public favor.
The answer is a complex combination of green fuel technologies, hydrogen cell technologies, electric car technologies (including hybrid), and public transportation services. Fuel technologies are the obvious replacement, given that we can barely consider the fuel conglomerates might invest in technologies that would cost them their $40 Billion a year (profit) business. If they invest in green fuels and hydrogen cells, they can maintain their profit margin until the next crisis.
For my own part, as I think I've commented earlier, I plan on converting my 3000GT into an electric car. Currently the price tag sits around $9,000. I won't do the research necessary, but I'm wondering if someone is already looking at combining the electric car with Prius technology and solar technology to extend the range of the car. In Who Killed the Electric Car, they discuss a battery, (I think NiMH) that would have extended the range of the EV1 out to 300 miles. I have thought about adding Prius battery charging technologies, magnets on the brake system, etc, to further charge the batteries while in transit. Additionally, perhaps a solar panel on the hood, the roof, or the trunk might further the range.
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