From: rhinoceros (rhinoceros@freemail.gr)
Date: Tue Sep 24 2002 - 15:14:00 MDT
Air-powered Autos
By John Harney September 19, 2002
http://www.technologyreview.com/articles/wo_harney091902.asp?p=0
Zero-emission driving may be more than hot air.
Guy Negre, an engineer from the little town of Carros, France, discovered a breath of fresh air, both literally and figuratively. During his career designing formula one engines he became familiar with isotherm dynamics, a process that creates power by expanding air at an almost constant temperature. Negre theorized that by heating and expanding super-cooled compressed air he could power a nonpolluting car. Six years and four prototypes later, it would appear he’s done it.
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The big plusses of the air-powered car, according to Negre, are super-efficient energy consumption as well as minimum pollution and maximum affordability. Though the car seats five, it will go from zero to 50 mph in seven seconds—certainly adequate acceleration for an urban vehicle like a taxi. What’s more, with fully loaded air tanks, it will take passengers about 120 miles at an average of 30 mph—again, about the right capacity for urban drivers who don’t want to fill up too often.
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The concept has proven quite appealing, especially to countries outside the United States. Thus far, Negre says MDI has issued 32 licenses in 12 countries such as South Africa, Mexico, Spain and Australia. He says 28 more licenses are pending; the licensees have been signed and now have 30 days to come through with payment
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As to distribution in the United States, Baltierra observes that, "the car seems ideal for urban environments—it's small and does not go very fast.” But, he adds, “it's unclear if this would appeal to major markets like the U.S.” Vencat, however, is negotiating with interested parties in both Florida and California.
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---- This message was posted by rhinoceros to the Virus 2002 board on Church of Virus BBS. <http://virus.lucifer.com/bbs/index.php?board=51;action=display;threadid=26746>
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