[SGVLUG] [OT]Hybrids and trains (was fuel prices and the dollar)

[Matt Campbell]

Hi Tom, to answer your question read 'DOT approvals'.

The good high energy density batteries have this nasty habit of exploding
when punctured in an accident.  I heard a story last year that a
manufacturer demoed a new battery design for auto use at a tradeshow.  They
dropped an iron bar across the terminals.  Everyone ducked for cover.  Once
it was clear that the battery was not going to detonate the manufacturer
drove a spike through it.  The battery just smoldered.

In the next 4 or 5 years we should see DOT approved high capacity batteries
available on the market.  Right now they're still R&D.

Remember when Zoe got ahold of one of Andy's helicopter LiPos?  The
explosion was heard for blocks around and *seven* engines responded to the
calls.  Luckily Zoe just received burns to her face and mouth, she's
completely recovered now, but hasn't given up her habit of chewing on
things....

Matt

> -----Original Message-----
> From: sgvlug-bounces at sgvlug.net [mailto:sgvlug-bounces at sgvlug.net] On
> Behalf Of Emerson, Tom (*IC)
> Sent: Thursday, May 15, 2008 9:24 AM
> To: SGVLUG Discussion List.
> Subject: RE: [SGVLUG] [OT]Hybrids and trains (was fuel prices and the
> dollar)
> 
> Ummm...
> 
> > -----Original Message----- Of Matt Campbell
> >
> > Ovonic has come out with new NiMH batteries rated at 93%
> > efficiency for cars:
> 
> [press release 274]
> 
> Reading the first sentence of the first two paragraphs:
> 
> ... Jan. 13, 2000 ...
> 
> (and)
> 
> The Precept is a fully functioning ... Family sedan that achieves a
> fuel
> economy of 80 mpg.
> 
> =====================
> 
> The next sentence goes on to say it was a "proof of concept" vehicle,
> however what I want to know is that if they've "proved" that an 80-mpg
> car is doable in 2000, why the fsck aren't they on the road TODAY?