This week’s lesson compromises the issue of alternative renewable energy that we humans have to turn to due to the over reliance on fossil fuels. Some key discussions that we have mentioned is the class includes the drivers of global energy change – rapidly increase of energy prices, usage of energy and need for economic development, a need for sustainability where new forms of renewable energy came into the picture, new technologies and approaches to conserving energy as well as to reduce the pollution of reduction technologies.
Many nations count on coal, oil and natural gas to supply most of their energy needs but the reliance on fossil fuels still presents a big problem. Eventually the world will run out of fossil fuels, or t will become too expensive to retrieve those that remain. Furthermore, during class, we have also learned that fossil fuels cause pollutions to air, water, soil and emit greenhouse gases that contribute to global warming. Therefore, we seek for alternative ways on renewable energy resources such as wind, solar, biomass, geothermal, hydropower, ocean resources, biofuels and hydrogen derived from renewable resources. The existing renewable energy installations are making significant contributions to the US energy supply and research activities are demonstrating the far-reaching impact that a greater reliance on renewable energy sources could have on a country’s energy security.
However, many will ponder will we do not tap on the direct sunlight or wind that are available to us? Corporations might think that investing into such technologies is of a high risk and it might not seem economically profitable in doing so? Must the government step in to lead of change? It’s definitely a green light to go for it if no one is tapping on such use.
Click here to watch: Aptera, Vehicle Of The Future
What is so special about Aptera?
· 50% of this average car’s energy is used pushing air out of the way at a rate of 55mph.
· This three-wheeled car works by electricity.
· The shape of the outer layer of the car is designed in a way that is much like a bird gliding through the wind.
· The composite body structure provides an impact-resistant exterior that is lighter than steel but three times as strong. Front crash zones incorporate race car technology that absorbs and deflects energy to keep the cabin from harm. Integrated high-strength aluminum door beams transfer crash loads into the body and away from the cabin.
· A complement of driver and passenger air bags is incorporated to ensure that each passenger is always secure.
Personally, I feel that the electric car can act as an environment friendly guardian angel on the roads which can in fact draws a lot of by-passers’ attention to the use of electric car. The greatest advantage is that they are zero-emission vehicle where there is no emission from the tailpipe. However the electricity that is used to power these cars is produced from an energy plant by combustion of fossil fuels. Though fossil fuels are used here, it is argued that it is better for these fuels to be expelled at the plant than at the tailpipe.
Another advantage to buying an electric car in the US is that there are numerous financial incentives offered when buying an electric car. These incentives include cash rebates, tax credits, free re-charging and even free parking in some states.
Well, after all, the electric car is not something new to the car industry as they have been around for some time. In fact, presently they are the leaders in future cars.
"The days of fossil fuels are numbered. Renewed energy will drive the Green Revolution"
Dr. Shahi
Overall Rating: 7/10
