Zero Emissions Rides-- Both Two-Wheeled and Four-- Are Coming Sooner Than You Think
We've seen hydrogen and electric-powered bike concepts, discussed the self-proclaimed motorcycle of the future, and glimpsed Suzuki's fuel cell-powered concept, but 2008 will be the year that zero emissions rubber meets the road.
On the four-wheeled front, I recently spent some time behind the wheel of Honda's new FCX Clarity concept, an incredible fuel cell vehicle that runs on electricity and hydrogen, spewing nothing but water vapor into the air. The cars will be leased to a pre-selected group of Southern Californians in summer 2008, and you can check out my Honda FCX Clarity review at Christine & Scott Gable's Hybrid and Alternative Fuels site.
Non-cagers craving a silent, zero emissions bike should check out Brammo's Enertia electric motorcycle, which will also be available next year. The bike, which weighs under 275 pounds, tops out at 50 mph, has a 45 mile range, and recharges using a standard plug in 3 hours. The Enertia isn't cheap: expect to pay $14,995 for a limited edition carbon fiber model (pictured here), or $11,995 for a standard model, which will be available by the third quarter of 2008. But like early calculators and ball point pens, these alternative energy vehicles will no doubt improve exponentially while prices drop, making the future just a bit more interesting.
© EnertiaClick for a larger view.
Comments
I enjoy my fossil fuels like i enjoy my coffee, “good to the last drop”. Only then i’ll give hydro & electric a thought. Till then, tally ho…!
While I think we should open up known energy fields in the US, and get the oil out of Iraq for which we went there (nice liberal thought), I’m not as ignorant as burt r. Our Escalades, et al, just fund many of the interests that hate us, and their oil will last long enough to buy many of our major banks.
That said, I’ve always thought a motor vehicle should sound like an internal combustion engine. But then, once we thought size 14 women were it, and now many of us are hot for size 2s.
Scottie- I hate to do it, but I must agree with you.
Nice effort, but the price point is 2X what it should be, in my opinion.
Yes, it is expensive, but we owe it to the planet, its the least we can do.
The Hydrogen Hoax: Biodiesel vs. Hydrogen
Bob, I agree, the price is expensive now, but it will only go down.
Regarding our dependence on oil, I used to equate environmental consciousness with boring vehicles that were unconcerned with performance, but when I began testing hybrid cars with 400+ horsepower, I realized that someday we might be able to have our cake and eat it too.
Basem
Greetings. Congratulations on continued fine journalism, clear and to the point! I am elated that you are covering a particular delight of mine: “0 Emissions” Vehicles. Like Kitty Hawk, NC we will start slow and “take off” from there. And to think we are alive to see it!
Stay Blessed and Ride Safe!
ric.