Tuesday, September 24, 2013

Electric Cars Just Haven't Hit Their Stride

by Andrea L. Algar
Motorheads Performance

Electric cars have been trying to make an in-road to becoming a viable form of transportation, and in fact, our current administration would like nothing more than to see gasoline powered engines become extinct. But simply believing that something is the "right" thing doesn't make it so, and what is becoming glaringly evident is that America is not quite ready to go all-electric just yet. Yes, more news of failing companies that had received money to develop the technology and little or no results to show for the outlay of research and development funds.

Hiriko 2 Seater Electric Car
The pros may seem obvious, but until one really looks at the true cost of electric cars, a fair comparison truly cannot be made. With price tags of $25,000 (but usually far more) for even the most basic models, most models comparable to gasoline powered cars are at least double the price. Lack of range is also a big concern, as many models that have been introduced are limited to 100 to 250 miles range, making long commutes or road trips inconvenient if not impossible to imagine. After all, an electric car that can't travel more than a hundred miles or so is not very practical for the average American who lives in the suburbs.

Without question, most experts agree that until better batteries are developed, the dream of every American driving an electric car will remain just that. While great strides have been made, we're still a long way off, and most think it will take at least another ten years or more for effective, cost-efficient batteries to be mass produced.

The bottom line is, at this time, drivers will pay a premium to be inconvenienced! And, I think, classic car drivers and enthusiasts are prepared to wait a long long time for the "joys" of electric car driving to be discovered! What do you think?

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Andrea L. Algar is co-owner of a classic car performance and restoration design shop in Leesville, Texas. Motorheads Performance specializes in repairs, maintenance, performance upgrades and restorative work on cars and trucks from the 1920’s through 1970’s. Her husband Guy L. Algar is a Mechanical Engineer with over 25 years experience. He holds 5 ASE Certifications from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence and has been working on old cars and trucks for over 37 years. Together they share their passion for old cars and trucks with other enthusiasts from around the country.