Engineering Efficiency
Right now, there are innovators around the world working to build an amazing machine to compete with to possibly win the Progressive Insurance Automotive X Prize. There are a number of X Prizes that are up for grabs, but this competition in particular is geared toward reengineered automobiles that can change the face of the planet. The winner of the competition will have produced a machine that will revolutionize the way we view automobiles. The winner will receive ten million dollars and an incredible amount of publicity for the creators and their products.
This week Popular Science featured a three wheeled monster named E. Rex; a battery powered electric, three wheeled, two passenger vehicle designed for efficiency and pollution free transportation. Currently the racecar appearing E Rex is utilizing 96 cells of lithium ion battery which is claimed to range up to 100 miles. The batter pack is supposed to able to recharge in two and a half hours when using a 220 volt outlet.
Although this car looks sporty, fast, and cool, just how practical is it? My first issue with this car is what happens when it rains? I have not found information on a canopy that can be applied to the E Rex to protect the driver. And while on the topic of protection, where in the windshield? I took a road trip this past week and I had five large sized stones hit my trucks windshield, which is higher off the ground than E Rex, and if the passenger is not wearing a helmet, there is a serious risk. Electric cars are out there in our country, no they’re not being mass produced my any of the large auto manufactures, and most of the reasons are practicality. The E Rex is advertised for sale at a dollar shy of $52,000. In my opinion that is not practical. I do understand the man/men involved in making the car need to make a profit, but it’s too much.
In conclusion, I am thrilled about the new ideas being brought to the table, and their ideas possibly being rewarded with ten million dollars, but I am just looking for more. I am looking for someone to reengineer the wheel. Since this is all about revolutionary, I would have liked to see them use the new tweel from Michelin, an airless tire. I wish all competing teams the best, but I hope the winner isn’t chosen through a publicity stunt, I want a fresh start on our auto industry.
Original Article;
http://www.popsci.com/cars/article/2010-04/three-wheeled-e-rex-roars-progressive-automotive-x-prize
Supporting Articles;
http://www.wired.com/autopia/2010/04/optamotive-e-rex/
http://www.popsci.com/bown/2009/product/2010-toyota-prius
http://www.popsci.com/cars/article/2008-03/tesla-roadster-electric-supercar-begins-production
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