Sunday, March 1, 2009

Relative Participation- Extra Credit Opportunity

Liam,

I found your blog extremely interesting and informative. It really covers a lot of ground regarding the ongoing development of alternative fuel source autos.

I appreciated the blog addressing this subject in a general way, focusing on fuel cell v. plug-in electric v. plug-in hybrid cars, while incorporating news and information about specific vehicles being developed and tested by specific manufacturers.

After reading the blog, I feel like I have a very good sense of, not only which technology will likely prevail, but also the specific vehicles that will be offered in the near future, and their strengths and weaknesses. This information has started me thinking about what kind of car I might be buying in five or ten years, and even what model.

It is interesting that you started with a stronger focus on fuel cell cars, but gradually shifted attention more towards plug-in hybrids when you realized that they seemed the stronger, more economical, long term option. It is also commendable that you kept a very open mind on the topic, allowing your views to evolve rather than sticking with pre-set ideas and just looking for supporting views and information.

The coverage of ancillary issues around these cars was also very helpful to the general topic, anticipating questions that naturally arise. Specifically, information about developing battery technology, the logistics of charging electric cars, necessary improvements to the electric grid, hydrogen production, and the development of hydrogen and charging stations, were all very helpful in grasping the scope of change to come with these new vehicles.

Charles Mullen
(father)