You have a point, monty21, but not sure if India is highest. It seems China is highest and western countries also increasing. See below: http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/2007/may/15/comment.transport http://www.iol.co.za/index.php?set_id=1&click_id=15&art_id=nw20080108221551414C532005 http://blogs.usatoday.com/oped/2007/02/road_deaths_com.html http://roadrules.ca/?m=200711 http://www.who.int/mediacentre/news/releases/2007/pr17/en/index.html http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/PA0801/S00002.htm http://www.thaindian.com/newsportal...f-road-accident-deaths-in-india_10027145.html http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/06/080604194701.htm http://english.sina.com/china/1/2008/0321/151323.html But, poor countries benefit if not depend on oil or crude. Also, present alternative cars not more than 40-60 km/hr, so accidents shall decrease. So, double benefits, less pollution, lower costs & accidents. What do you say?
If the candlemaking industry had the same power and clout 150 years ago, that the oil industry has today, we would still be reading by candlelight.
http://www.think.no/think 110 miles range. They plan to hit US market next year. Estimated price ~$25K/
Excellent Commentary All ........................................................................... What is very telling is that there are a number of small companies that are taking their shot in entering the small innovative car markets.... And the production rates are relatively small.... However a lot of smalls can equal a large....and escape the debilitating overhead costs of the likes of GM, Ford.... What is also very telling is the production approach that Tata and others will be employing.... They will be setting up many regional assembly plants that are localized type operations which further reduces production start up time.... ...................................................................... Both GM and Ford have the union albatros and other nonproductive blocks in the way.... ..................................................................... In this case....small can be very effective.... ........................................................................ But on the other hand....if Ford or GM could rid themselves of their nonproductive overheads....they could produce massive numbers of these vehicle types very quickly....
Kinda looks like a YuGo powered by a 9 volt battery... But we are not there yet for the mainstream. How about a car/truck that mostly runs on battery and has a small diesel engine to keep you going up to 300 miles on a charge? That way you could offer luxuries like Heat/AC and lights without having to worry if you will make it out the driveway before the battery is dead. I look forward to the day when Lith-Ion batteries are no longer sold because they are too expensive and don't hold very much compared to the new thing.