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The point of this amazing run is that it was engineering skill, carefully and progressively applied, that accomplished the goal. As GM and Chrysler dissolve today, it's hard not to feel a pang for what might have been, had Detroit understood the cool in smart, instead of clinging to the bravado of brawny.
http://blog.greenbird.co.uk/2009/03/27/greenbird-smashes-world-record/
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We also have a Therms & Barrels Calculator that lets you compare equivalents related to the energy in a barrel of oil.
When thinking of energy use and potential waste and savings, keep in mind the concept of "pure" energy, no matter how it's expressed or what source it comes from. The important thing is how much energy is needed to do a specific amount of work. Energy consciousness means thinking about how efficiently you can apply the energy to the work, ranging from how you manage your water heater to how you approach and leave a stoplight in your car.
No one can be entirely energy efficient, and we all have thresholds of patience, comfort, and enthusiasm. But energy consciousness itself, and the formation of at least some good personal energy habits, will make a big difference when we put all our habits together. Other good calculators:
Soltrex Interactive Energy Calculator
EIA Energy Kids Page Calculator
U.S. Department of Energy Calculators
Change a light bulb from incandescent to compact fluorescent. Just do that one thing, and you'll make a significant contribution. No kidding. Here's a link to some information about compact fluorescent bulbs on this site. For all sorts of other simple ideas, visit this page.
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To find out how best to recycle in your locale, go to www.earth911.org and enter your zip code. This is, by the way, a superb website for all things environmental – active, committed, and well-designed.
It’s an achievement no doubt, but what is the commercial viability of a wind powered vehicle, could it only be used on windy days?
Or may be a hybrid that could harness wind energy first then utilize it like Mitsubishi Mavi!
Posted by: THE GREEN BEND | 07 June 2009 at 02:38 PM
Of course it's not about the commercial viability of wind-powered vehicles. There isn't any. It's about the thoughtful engineering that brought about the efficiency of the vehicle. Did you look at the clip?
Posted by: DL | 24 June 2009 at 09:05 AM