Given the 800 million-plus cars on the roads of planet Earth, the rapid depletion of petroleum-based fuels, and the looming threat of global warming, there's never been a more urgent time to visualize the cars of the future. Hosted by Tom and Ray Magliozzi (aka "Click and Clack" from the popular NPR show Car Talk), and narrated by John Lithgow, this NOVA-aired episode examines future transportation alternatives by looking at the promising results of present-day research and development, from the innovations of the major auto manufacturers (like GM's battery-powered Volt, unveiled as a concept car at the 2007 Detroit auto show) to the grassroots efforts of visionary inventors at Boston's annual AltWheels car-design festival. Car of the Future also features a thorough overview of alternative fuels (hydrogen, ethanol, lithium-ion batteries, etc.) together with a survey of cutting-edge auto designs that incorporate hybrid engines, strong but lightweight carbon-fiber construction, and other new ways to maximize fuel efficiency. Looking at the sleek, battery-powered Tesla sports car (recharged with household power outlets and capable of going from zero to 60 in four seconds), it's hard not to be excited about the future of transportation. Combining up-close looks at new cars with expert interviews, this program tackles serious subject matter in an informative and entertaining fashion, while also celebrating human ingenuity. DVD extras include downloadable materials for educators. Recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (J. Shannon)
Car of the Future: Engineering for the Environment
(2008) 54 min. DVD: $24.95. WGBH Boston Video. PPR. Closed captioned. ISBN: 978-1-59375-818-9. Volume 23, Issue 4
Car of the Future: Engineering for the Environment
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