The move away from combustion engines to other sources of power, namely electricity, is a slow and expensive process one that will likely take many years and cost perhaps trillions of dollars globally over the coming decades. Lots of folks want to move this process along as quickly as possible, while others are worried that consumer acceptance and funding will lag far behind.
Advancing the Cause of Green Energy
Governments will play a big role in helping to advance the cause, one being pushed by green advocates all over the world. In the United States, the federal government continues to support energy efficient vehicles by offering rebates on the purchase of select models. That amount is expected to run as high as $7500 by the time the first of what will likely be many electric models roll out next year.
In Britain, the government is also standing behind the electrification of the auto industry by planning to offer tax incentives ranging from 2000-5000 pounds. That latter amount nears the US$7500 figure for cars such as the Chevy Volt (Opel Ampera) and Tesla S sedan.
Pouring Millions Into Infrastructure
In addition to offering rebates to car buyers, Britain plans to invest money in infrastructure, by building charging ports especially in those areas of the country where demand is expected to be strong. The initial amount to be invested, $30 million, is a pittance compared to what will eventually be needed, but it is a start.
According to The Guardian, an alternative to charging ports under consideration is to set aside a number of “switch stations” where customers can drive in, have their depleted battery removed and replaced with a full charged battery, and drive off. These stations would be fully automated with a robotic arm doing all of the work including ensuring that the new battery is secured and connected.
Weaning the World Off of Oil One Car at a Time
Likely, both charging ports and switch stations will be used, part of a comprehensive global strategy to wean the world off of oil. Yes, electricity is produced from oil, coal and other natural resources, but the hope is that at some point that even powerplants will run on alternative fuel. Sounds like an excellent case for nuclear power to me.
Reference: UK charges up for electric car future
See also: Push to produce electric car batteries and China Outlines Plans for Making Electric Cars
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