Thursday, December 31, 2009
AskOxford: What is the name for a sentence that contains all 26 letters of the alphabet?
AskOxford: What is the name for a sentence that contains all 26 letters of the alphabet?: "Apart from 'angry' and 'hungry', what other common English word ends in '-gry'?
Are there any English words containing the same letter three times in a row?
Are there any words in the English language that use all five vowels with no intervening consonants?
Are there any words that only exist in the plural form?
Are there any words that rhyme with orange?
Are there words that contain the letter 'q' without a 'u' following it?
Can a DNA string be considered the longest word in English?
Does 'bimonthly' mean 'twice a month' or 'every two months'?
Female cattle are cows, male cattle are bulls. But what is the word for an individual of arbitrary sex here?
How do you describe a person who does not eat meat, but eats fish?"
Are there any English words containing the same letter three times in a row?
Are there any words in the English language that use all five vowels with no intervening consonants?
Are there any words that only exist in the plural form?
Are there any words that rhyme with orange?
Are there words that contain the letter 'q' without a 'u' following it?
Can a DNA string be considered the longest word in English?
Does 'bimonthly' mean 'twice a month' or 'every two months'?
Female cattle are cows, male cattle are bulls. But what is the word for an individual of arbitrary sex here?
How do you describe a person who does not eat meat, but eats fish?"
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Why We Kiss: The Science of Sex - Page 2 - DivineCaroline
Why We Kiss: The Science of Sex - Page 2 - DivineCaroline: "researchers hypothesize that this is because saliva contains testosterone, which can increase libido. Researchers also think that men might be able to pick up on a woman’s level of estrogen, which is a predictor of fertility.
Crazy for Canoodling
But kissing isn’t all mating practicality; it also feels good. That’s because kissing unleashes a host of feel-good chemicals, helping to reduce stress and increase social bonding. Researcher Wendy Hill and colleagues at Lafayette College looked at how oxytocin, which is involved in pair bonding and attachment, and cortisol, a stress hormone, changed after people kissed. Using a small sample of college couples that were in long-term relationships, they found cortisol levels decreased after kissing. The longer the couples had been in a relationship, the farther their levels dropped. Cortisol levels also decreased for the control group—couples that just held hands—indicating that social attachment in general can decrease stress levels, not just kissing."
Crazy for Canoodling
But kissing isn’t all mating practicality; it also feels good. That’s because kissing unleashes a host of feel-good chemicals, helping to reduce stress and increase social bonding. Researcher Wendy Hill and colleagues at Lafayette College looked at how oxytocin, which is involved in pair bonding and attachment, and cortisol, a stress hormone, changed after people kissed. Using a small sample of college couples that were in long-term relationships, they found cortisol levels decreased after kissing. The longer the couples had been in a relationship, the farther their levels dropped. Cortisol levels also decreased for the control group—couples that just held hands—indicating that social attachment in general can decrease stress levels, not just kissing."
Limited: What's the value of talking about "range anxiety" all the time? — Autoblog Green
Limited: What's the value of talking about "range anxiety" all the time? — Autoblog Green: "We're not saying that range anxiety isn't real (it most certainly is), but why is it so important to mention this all the time? Considering that both long-range EVs with a robust recharging network and affordable hydrogen fuel cell vehicles with a reasonable refueling infrastructure will require a lot of work, why single out EVs as having the range issue? You can't drive a H2 car very far either in most places.
So, instead of constantly talking about the limited range of EVs, doesn't it make more sense to realize that – for now – if you're not driving a petroleum-powered vehicle, you won't be able to drive very far without making some serious adjustments to your normal driving style"
So, instead of constantly talking about the limited range of EVs, doesn't it make more sense to realize that – for now – if you're not driving a petroleum-powered vehicle, you won't be able to drive very far without making some serious adjustments to your normal driving style"
Limited: What's the value of talking about "range anxiety" all the time? — Autoblog Green
Limited: What's the value of talking about "range anxiety" all the time? — Autoblog Green: "Here are three important facts about gasoline:
It is available almost anywhere around the world
it has tremendous energy content
Using it the way we do creates a whole slew of negative environmental and political side effects
It's hard to beat the first two items with a non-petroleum alternative, but those negative impacts (oh, and questions about its availability in the coming decades) are forcing us to try and find one."
It is available almost anywhere around the world
it has tremendous energy content
Using it the way we do creates a whole slew of negative environmental and political side effects
It's hard to beat the first two items with a non-petroleum alternative, but those negative impacts (oh, and questions about its availability in the coming decades) are forcing us to try and find one."
Monday, December 28, 2009
L18: Electric Cars Today � The End of the Road: The Twisted Tale of American Horsepower.
L18: Electric Cars Today � The End of the Road: The Twisted Tale of American Horsepower.: "Do you want your next new car to be electric, cost $7500 and meet 90% of your needs while mass transit is being improved? Would you prefer a new electric car to meet 100% of your needs, cost $45,000 to $150,000, cost significantly more to maintain and insure, lose considerable resale value rapidly and, after all that effort and expense turns out not to be a clean and green environmental alternative after all?
When will we break the old mode or transportation model, the old paradigm or rut (that’s a road metaphor) and do the logical thing?"
When will we break the old mode or transportation model, the old paradigm or rut (that’s a road metaphor) and do the logical thing?"
Greentech Media: How Ford Plans to Undercut GM's Volt in Price
Greentech Media: How Ford Plans to Undercut GM's Volt in Price: "Ford and GM are taking different approaches to plug-ins. And Ford says its will be cheaper.
DEARBORN, Mich. -- We will likely have a spirited debate over plug-in hybrid philosophy after all.
Ford Motor Co. will release its first plug-in hybrid in 2012, two years after rival General Motors releases the Volt. Ford executives, though, argue that their company should be able to limbo under the anticipated $40,000 price of the Volt as well as potentially come out with a wider range of plug-ins."
DEARBORN, Mich. -- We will likely have a spirited debate over plug-in hybrid philosophy after all.
Ford Motor Co. will release its first plug-in hybrid in 2012, two years after rival General Motors releases the Volt. Ford executives, though, argue that their company should be able to limbo under the anticipated $40,000 price of the Volt as well as potentially come out with a wider range of plug-ins."
Sunday, December 27, 2009
Electric Vehicle Charging Station Celebration on Flickr - Photo Sharing!
Electric Vehicle Charging Station Celebration on Flickr - Photo Sharing!: "Electric Vehicle Charging Station Ribbon Cutting Ceremony (Set)"
Ten realistic electric vehicle predictions for 2010 | Automotive Reviews
Ten realistic electric vehicle predictions for 2010 | Automotive Reviews: "What will 2010 bring for plug-in vehicles? It’s going to be one of the most exciting years for the technology in a long, long time but it won’t be all wine and roses. Clean technology market intelligence firm Pike Research and HybridCars recently partnered up on a list of ten plug-in hybrid and electric vehicle predictions for the new year. They have released a 14-page white paper that people can buy, and have also blogged about a few of the predictions, including:
The cost of owning and driving an electric vehicle is not likely to be cheaper than using gasoline.
2012 will be a critical year for the commercialization of EVs and plug-in hybrids.
Despite the arrival of plug-in hybrids, the hybrid market will continue to grow by adding a greater variety of subcategories.
The plug-in hybrids of 2020 may not resemble the plug-ins of 2010.
2010 probably won’t be a make or break year for plug-in vehicles (there’s simply too much money and effort being put into the technology to let it die now. See: hydrogen fuel cells), but we will know a lot more about how much of an impact these vehicles have 12 months by now."
The cost of owning and driving an electric vehicle is not likely to be cheaper than using gasoline.
2012 will be a critical year for the commercialization of EVs and plug-in hybrids.
Despite the arrival of plug-in hybrids, the hybrid market will continue to grow by adding a greater variety of subcategories.
The plug-in hybrids of 2020 may not resemble the plug-ins of 2010.
2010 probably won’t be a make or break year for plug-in vehicles (there’s simply too much money and effort being put into the technology to let it die now. See: hydrogen fuel cells), but we will know a lot more about how much of an impact these vehicles have 12 months by now."
Friday, December 25, 2009
When will plug-in cars pay off? - Future of Energy- msnbc.com
When will plug-in cars pay off? - Future of Energy- msnbc.com: "Automakers are promising that affordable plug-in hybrid electric vehicles will be available in the next couple of years, but a new report contends that it will be decades before the fuel savings and lower emissions make up for the high cost of batteries.
The National Research Council issued its reality check on the prospects for plug-ins on Monday, the same day that Toyota announced it would field an 'affordable' plug-in version of its Prius hybrid in the United States in 2011. The Japanese automaker said the car would be capable of traveling 14.5 miles on electricity alone, and achieve levels of fuel economy equivalent to 134 miles per gallon.
Toyota is just one of the companies in the race to get plug-ins to the marketplace. General Motors and Nissan are expected to roll out their entrants — the Chevy Volt hybrid and the Nissan Leaf all-electric car, respectively — by the end of next year."
The National Research Council issued its reality check on the prospects for plug-ins on Monday, the same day that Toyota announced it would field an 'affordable' plug-in version of its Prius hybrid in the United States in 2011. The Japanese automaker said the car would be capable of traveling 14.5 miles on electricity alone, and achieve levels of fuel economy equivalent to 134 miles per gallon.
Toyota is just one of the companies in the race to get plug-ins to the marketplace. General Motors and Nissan are expected to roll out their entrants — the Chevy Volt hybrid and the Nissan Leaf all-electric car, respectively — by the end of next year."
Neo-druidism - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Neo-druidism - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia: "Neo-druidism
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
A group of Neo-druids in England, dressed in ceremonial garb
Neo-druidism or neo-druidry, commonly referred to as Druidism or Druidry by its adherants[1][2][3] is a form of modern spirituality or religion that generally promotes harmony and worship of nature, and respect for all beings, including the environment. It is considered to be a Neopagan faith by some adherents, along with such religions as Wicca and Asatru, though 'some assert that Druidry is not a religion at all, not even necessarily a spirituality, but simply a philosophy of living'[4] that can be adhered to by followers of any religion or by atheists."
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
A group of Neo-druids in England, dressed in ceremonial garb
Neo-druidism or neo-druidry, commonly referred to as Druidism or Druidry by its adherants[1][2][3] is a form of modern spirituality or religion that generally promotes harmony and worship of nature, and respect for all beings, including the environment. It is considered to be a Neopagan faith by some adherents, along with such religions as Wicca and Asatru, though 'some assert that Druidry is not a religion at all, not even necessarily a spirituality, but simply a philosophy of living'[4] that can be adhered to by followers of any religion or by atheists."
what'schristianaboutchristmastrees? (krismasday)
what'schristianaboutchristmastrees? (krismasday): "Thus saith the Lord, Learn not the way of the heathen, and be not dismayed at the signs of heaven; for the heathen are dismayed at them. For the customs of the people are vain: for one cutteth a tree out of the forest, the work of the hands of the workman, with the axe. They deck it with silver and with gold; they fasten it with nails and with hammers, that it move not. (Jeremiah 10:2–4)
That passage refers to trees used in the worship of Asherah, consort of El, a.k.a. God, but it applies to all heathen practices. Search the Bible, and you'll find no explanation for Christmas trees.
Holiday trees come from pre-Christian Yule traditions. Fortunately for Christians, the old gods of Europe are not jealous. Anyone is welcome to use Yule symbols to celebrate anything, including the December 25th births of Mithra and Jesus.
Since decorated trees are forbidden by the Bible, it makes more sense to to write about Yule trees, holiday trees, or Krismas trees"
That passage refers to trees used in the worship of Asherah, consort of El, a.k.a. God, but it applies to all heathen practices. Search the Bible, and you'll find no explanation for Christmas trees.
Holiday trees come from pre-Christian Yule traditions. Fortunately for Christians, the old gods of Europe are not jealous. Anyone is welcome to use Yule symbols to celebrate anything, including the December 25th births of Mithra and Jesus.
Since decorated trees are forbidden by the Bible, it makes more sense to to write about Yule trees, holiday trees, or Krismas trees"
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Technology Review: A Quantum Leap in Battery Design
Technology Review: A Quantum Leap in Battery Design: "A 'digital quantum battery' concept proposed by a physicist at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign could provide a dramatic boost in energy storage capacity--if it meets its theoretical potential once built.
The concept calls for billions of nanoscale capacitors and would rely on quantum effects--the weird phenomena that occur at atomic size scales--to boost energy storage. Conventional capacitors consist of one pair of macroscale conducting plates, or electrodes, separated by an insulating material. Applying a voltage creates an electric field in the insulating material, storing energy. But all such devices can only hold so much charge, beyond which arcing occurs between the electrodes, wasting the stored power."
The concept calls for billions of nanoscale capacitors and would rely on quantum effects--the weird phenomena that occur at atomic size scales--to boost energy storage. Conventional capacitors consist of one pair of macroscale conducting plates, or electrodes, separated by an insulating material. Applying a voltage creates an electric field in the insulating material, storing energy. But all such devices can only hold so much charge, beyond which arcing occurs between the electrodes, wasting the stored power."
WikiAnswers - What is the biggest SD card
WikiAnswers - What is the biggest SD card: "Strictly speaking SD cards are upto 2GB capacity. To support ever increasing demand for memory capacity a new standard SDHC (Secure Digital High Capacity, SD 2.0) was introduced which enabled capacities above 2GB. These cards are called SDHC and are available upto 32GB capacity. But SDHC cards are not compatible with older devices which support only SD card standard devices. Devices which support SDHC due to backward compatibility support smaller capacity (less than 2GB) SD cards also. In summary SDHC cards only work in SDHC compatible devices, but standard SD cards work in both SD and SDHC devices."
Q&A: Canon helps usher in the video SLR era | Underexposed - CNET News
Q&A: Canon helps usher in the video SLR era | Underexposed - CNET News: "Is SDXC good enough that you could get rid of CompactFlash and move solely to XC and its successors?
Westfall: Theoretically there's no reason why you'd have to stick with any of the legacy formats if SDXC is all that it's hyped to be, but we don't necessarily want to change our entire strategy at this point."
Westfall: Theoretically there's no reason why you'd have to stick with any of the legacy formats if SDXC is all that it's hyped to be, but we don't necessarily want to change our entire strategy at this point."
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Rethink Afghanistan War
Rethink Afghanistan War: "Over 100,000 people signed the petition from Brave New Foundation, Credo Mobile and True Majority calling on Congress to vote against any bill to fund troop escalation in Afghanistan. On December 8th, Congressman Alan Grayson read the petition aloud from the House floor, asking his colleagues to vote NO.
Rep. Grayson's action was a step forward in demonstrating to Congress our opposition to the war. But we're far from achieving the groundswell we need to bring the war to an end. Let’s keep the momentum going. We've created this unique tool that allows you to send a video to your friends that matches up with their specific concerns about the war."
Rep. Grayson's action was a step forward in demonstrating to Congress our opposition to the war. But we're far from achieving the groundswell we need to bring the war to an end. Let’s keep the momentum going. We've created this unique tool that allows you to send a video to your friends that matches up with their specific concerns about the war."
EVs and Energy: Why Solstice Is Special To Me
EVs and Energy: Why Solstice Is Special To Me: "Nothing I’d ever done before had felt sufficient—no recycling, no reusing, no reducing. But driving a car, one of the most environmentally destructive instruments in existence, that didn’t even have a tailpipe? Driving a gas-free, zero-emission mini-SUV fueled with sunshine? That felt like enough and then some."
Sunday, December 20, 2009
Sunrise and Sunset for U.S.A. – Oregon – Portland – coming days
Sunrise and Sunset for U.S.A. – Oregon – Portland – coming days: "Rising and setting times for the Sun
� � � Length of day Solar noon
Date Sunrise Sunset This day Difference Time Altitude Distance
(106 km)
Dec 21, 2009 7:48 AM 4:30 PM 8h 42m 04s − 01s 12:09 PM 21.1� 147.165
Dec 22, 2009 7:48 AM 4:30 PM 8h 42m 07s 02s 12:09 PM 21.1� 147.154
Dec 23, 2009 7:49 AM 4:31 PM 8h 42m 15s 07s 12:10 PM 21.1� 147.145
Dec 24, 2009 7:49 AM 4:32 PM 8h 42m 28s 12s 12:10 PM 21.1� 147.136
Dec 25, 2009 7:50 AM 4:32 PM 8h 42m 46s 17s 12:11 PM 21.1� 147.128
Dec 26, 2009 7:50 AM 4:33 PM 8h 43m 08s 22s 12:11 PM 21.2� 147.121
Dec 27, 2009 7:50 AM 4:34 PM 8h 43m 36s 27s 12:12 PM 21.2� 147.114"
� � � Length of day Solar noon
Date Sunrise Sunset This day Difference Time Altitude Distance
(106 km)
Dec 21, 2009 7:48 AM 4:30 PM 8h 42m 04s − 01s 12:09 PM 21.1� 147.165
Dec 22, 2009 7:48 AM 4:30 PM 8h 42m 07s 02s 12:09 PM 21.1� 147.154
Dec 23, 2009 7:49 AM 4:31 PM 8h 42m 15s 07s 12:10 PM 21.1� 147.145
Dec 24, 2009 7:49 AM 4:32 PM 8h 42m 28s 12s 12:10 PM 21.1� 147.136
Dec 25, 2009 7:50 AM 4:32 PM 8h 42m 46s 17s 12:11 PM 21.1� 147.128
Dec 26, 2009 7:50 AM 4:33 PM 8h 43m 08s 22s 12:11 PM 21.2� 147.121
Dec 27, 2009 7:50 AM 4:34 PM 8h 43m 36s 27s 12:12 PM 21.2� 147.114"
Winter Solstice 2009
Winter Solstice 2009: "In the Northern Hemisphere, the Winter Solstice occurs on December 21, 2009 at 12:47 PM EST and 17:47 UT (Universal Time).
In the Southern Hemisphere, the Winter Solstice takes place on June 21, 2009 5:45 UT (Universal Time).
While the beginning of summer marks the longest day of the year, the winter solstice brings the shortest day - and the longest night! - of the year."
In the Southern Hemisphere, the Winter Solstice takes place on June 21, 2009 5:45 UT (Universal Time).
While the beginning of summer marks the longest day of the year, the winter solstice brings the shortest day - and the longest night! - of the year."
Could Our Stupidity Be Our Silver Lining? : TreeHugger
Could Our Stupidity Be Our Silver Lining? : TreeHugger: "Even if you don't believe in global warming, it hardly makes economic, environmental or even plain-old common sense to do things inefficiently and ineffectively. But if things are being done so badly, then the upside is that there is plenty of room for improvement."
Friday, December 18, 2009
Facebook | Plug In America: Flawed PHEV report has legs
Facebook | Plug In America: Flawed PHEV report has legs: "It takes a clarity of purpose, awillingness to pay attention to the science, and the guts to aim high.We need a focused effort at transportation electrification to work inparallel with the move toward renewable energy."
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Can You Really Afford an Electric Car? - WSJ.com
Can You Really Afford an Electric Car? - WSJ.com: "We're in one of the waxing phases now, and a big reason why is Tesla Motors Inc.
Based in Silicon Valley, Tesla has been offering its all-electric Roadsters for nearly two years and is still the only company selling highway-capable electric vehicles to consumers in volume. That will likely change next year when Nissan Motor Co. launches the Leaf, which is a full-electric, moderately priced family car. Other electric-car offerings are in the wings, including a model from Ford Motor Co. and cars from other startups, such as Coda Automotive.
Cars With a Charge
See a timeline of electric car history
View Interactive
Late in 2010, General Motors Co. plans to launch the Chevrolet Volt, a car the government-controlled auto maker is now promoting not as a 'hybrid' but as an 'electric vehicle with extended range capability.' The Volt uses a small gasoline engine to recharge its batteries after the first 40 miles of all-electric travel."
Based in Silicon Valley, Tesla has been offering its all-electric Roadsters for nearly two years and is still the only company selling highway-capable electric vehicles to consumers in volume. That will likely change next year when Nissan Motor Co. launches the Leaf, which is a full-electric, moderately priced family car. Other electric-car offerings are in the wings, including a model from Ford Motor Co. and cars from other startups, such as Coda Automotive.
Cars With a Charge
See a timeline of electric car history
View Interactive
Late in 2010, General Motors Co. plans to launch the Chevrolet Volt, a car the government-controlled auto maker is now promoting not as a 'hybrid' but as an 'electric vehicle with extended range capability.' The Volt uses a small gasoline engine to recharge its batteries after the first 40 miles of all-electric travel."
ChargeCar
ChargeCar: "One of the broad objectives of ChargeCar is to produce an intelligent supercapacitor-battery system whose management system is unique to individual commutes. This requires algorithms that are tailored to specific trips, and in keeping with our focus on community, we are inviting you to have a hand in designing these algorithms.
We are having a contest to open up this design task to everybody. The goal of this contest is to minimize the battery duty over all of the provided trips. You can read more about the impact we can have on battery duty in our paper.
To participate, you can download our program (written in Ruby). The program also comes with a set of data files to work with and some documentation for detail on functionality. When your submission is complete, please email us with the following details:
* Name
* A brief description of what your algorithm does
For your submission to be valid, it must match all of the following requirements:
* Your program must be self-contained (not dependent on other programs or processes in order to run)
* Since this program must be light enough to run on an electric car's onboard computer, the power predictions must be produced in less than a second per data point.
* Your program must be well commented and if you modify the code outside of the designated algorithm region, please specifically describe the rationale for doing so when you submit your program.
The current leader will be acknowledged on our website. Thank you for your valuable contribution to our project!
ChargeCar is a project from the CREATE Lab at Carnegie Mellon University"
We are having a contest to open up this design task to everybody. The goal of this contest is to minimize the battery duty over all of the provided trips. You can read more about the impact we can have on battery duty in our paper.
To participate, you can download our program (written in Ruby). The program also comes with a set of data files to work with and some documentation for detail on functionality. When your submission is complete, please email us with the following details:
* Name
* A brief description of what your algorithm does
For your submission to be valid, it must match all of the following requirements:
* Your program must be self-contained (not dependent on other programs or processes in order to run)
* Since this program must be light enough to run on an electric car's onboard computer, the power predictions must be produced in less than a second per data point.
* Your program must be well commented and if you modify the code outside of the designated algorithm region, please specifically describe the rationale for doing so when you submit your program.
The current leader will be acknowledged on our website. Thank you for your valuable contribution to our project!
ChargeCar is a project from the CREATE Lab at Carnegie Mellon University"
LED Lights-EagleLight LED light bulb replacement for standard 40 watt incandescent light bulb - Eaglelight.com
LED Lights-EagleLight LED light bulb replacement for standard 40 watt incandescent light bulb - Eaglelight.com: "The EagleLight 40 watt replacement bulb is the first LED based light from EagleLight Lighting to offer light quality comparable to that of a traditional 40W light bulb. The EagleLight 40 watt replacement bulb is 90% more energy efficient than an incandescent bulb, and is based on a breakthrough and patented technology that opens the lighting market to LED technology. The warm white version of this lamp sheds a warm white sunset golden color, ideal for use in your home or hospitality areas. The natural white version of this lamp sheds a noon day sun pure white ideal for commercial, retail or hospital environments. This light works wonderfully well for reading lights and table lamps."
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Oregon gets huge windfarm project
Oregon gets huge windfarm project: "he Columbia River gorge, running east from Portland, Ore., funnels Pacific winds so efficiently that Hood River, about 120 miles (200 km) inland, is world famous as a windsurfing site. 60 miles (100 km) further east, the farming town of Arlington is rapidly becoming one of the largest producers of wind power in the nation.
The 97 MW Wheatfield Wind Farm went online last July, consisting of 56 2.1 MW Suzlon turbines. Now General Electric has signed a contract to provide 338 2.5 MW turbines for Caithness Energy's massive 845 MW Shepherd's Flat wind farm, with a 20-year contract to send power to Southern California Edison. The $2 billion project will employ about 400 workers beginning in 2011, with construction scheduled to complete in 2012."
The 97 MW Wheatfield Wind Farm went online last July, consisting of 56 2.1 MW Suzlon turbines. Now General Electric has signed a contract to provide 338 2.5 MW turbines for Caithness Energy's massive 845 MW Shepherd's Flat wind farm, with a 20-year contract to send power to Southern California Edison. The $2 billion project will employ about 400 workers beginning in 2011, with construction scheduled to complete in 2012."
Technology Review: Nissan's Leaf: Charged with Information
Technology Review: Nissan's Leaf: Charged with Information: "'Most people think that the charging infrastructure is the Achilles' heel of an electric vehicle project. But it's really not,' says Mark Perry, Nissan's director of product planning and advanced technology strategy. 'We are doing this to address peace of mind. We think people will recharge at home 80 percent of the time. But this lets people feel comfortable with the what-ifs,' he added.
Perry sees the dashboard information offered by the Leaf going even further in the future. 'Eventually what will be available is not only charging station locations, but if they are occupied and unoccupied, and even a reservation process,' says Perry."
Perry sees the dashboard information offered by the Leaf going even further in the future. 'Eventually what will be available is not only charging station locations, but if they are occupied and unoccupied, and even a reservation process,' says Perry."
The Best Rechargeable Batteries and Chargers Of 2009 �� MetaEfficient Reviews
The Best Rechargeable Batteries and Chargers Of 2009 �� MetaEfficient Reviews: "LaCrosse Technology BC-900 Alpha Battery Charger and Recovery System
This is a “smart” charger with automated recondition features, and even a test feature. It shows battery voltage and charge status on its built in digital display. It has four separate charge channels so you can charge one, two three or four batteries at a time – even on individual charge programs, that is, you can test one battery while charging the others. It comes with four AA and four AAA batteries, four battery adapters (which convert AA sized battery to C and D sizes) and a carry case. It available from Amazon for about $40."
This is a “smart” charger with automated recondition features, and even a test feature. It shows battery voltage and charge status on its built in digital display. It has four separate charge channels so you can charge one, two three or four batteries at a time – even on individual charge programs, that is, you can test one battery while charging the others. It comes with four AA and four AAA batteries, four battery adapters (which convert AA sized battery to C and D sizes) and a carry case. It available from Amazon for about $40."
The Best Rechargeable Batteries and Chargers Of 2009 �� MetaEfficient Reviews
The Best Rechargeable Batteries and Chargers Of 2009 �� MetaEfficient Reviews: "Eneloop Rechargeable Batteries by Sanyo
Eneloop batteries are Ni-MH batteries made by Sanyo in Japan. Like the Hybrios, Eneloops come fully charged out-of-the-box, and have a slow self-discharging range. They can also be recharged in any Ni-MH charger. Sanyo says Eneloops can be recharged up to 1000 times, and they will retain their charged capacity even after 6 or 12 months of storage. (According to Sanyo the specs are: 90% of charged capacity retained after 6 months, and 85% capacity after 12 months at 20 degree Celsius). The AA-sized (R6) batteries are rated at 2000mAh, and the AAA-sized (R03) cells are rated at 800mAh. The price is similar to the Hybrios: a pack of four AA Eneloops costs about $12. The charge times are as follows: AA Eneloops charge in 230 minutes, and AAA Eneloops charge in 135 minutes."
Eneloop batteries are Ni-MH batteries made by Sanyo in Japan. Like the Hybrios, Eneloops come fully charged out-of-the-box, and have a slow self-discharging range. They can also be recharged in any Ni-MH charger. Sanyo says Eneloops can be recharged up to 1000 times, and they will retain their charged capacity even after 6 or 12 months of storage. (According to Sanyo the specs are: 90% of charged capacity retained after 6 months, and 85% capacity after 12 months at 20 degree Celsius). The AA-sized (R6) batteries are rated at 2000mAh, and the AAA-sized (R03) cells are rated at 800mAh. The price is similar to the Hybrios: a pack of four AA Eneloops costs about $12. The charge times are as follows: AA Eneloops charge in 230 minutes, and AAA Eneloops charge in 135 minutes."
Saturday, December 12, 2009
The Nissan Leaf
The Nissan Leaf: "Range: 100 miles
Passengers: 5
Doors: 4 rear hatch
Motor: 80KW
Top speed: 90 mph
All-LED lighting
Backup camera
Cell phone accessible for checking charge state, programming charge cycle, etc.
Navigation system is standard equipment
Batteries (24KWH Li-ion) manufactured by Nissan
Batteries will be leased in markets outside the U.S. but may be available for purchase in the U.S.
8-hour charge time with standard 240V home charger (conductive)
Less than 30-minute charge time with Nissan fast charger (440/480 VDC)
Charge port(s): front/center under Nissan badge plate
Regenerative braking upon releasing accelerator (i.e. AC Propulsion style)
12VDC auxiliary electronics with separate battery (solar charger backup on rear of car roof)
Spare tire - undetermined
Availability: 2010 in some states (signups in Feb. 2010), 2012 planned mass production in U.S.
Price: undetermined, but targeted at under $35K for vehicle purchased battery pack"
Passengers: 5
Doors: 4 rear hatch
Motor: 80KW
Top speed: 90 mph
All-LED lighting
Backup camera
Cell phone accessible for checking charge state, programming charge cycle, etc.
Navigation system is standard equipment
Batteries (24KWH Li-ion) manufactured by Nissan
Batteries will be leased in markets outside the U.S. but may be available for purchase in the U.S.
8-hour charge time with standard 240V home charger (conductive)
Less than 30-minute charge time with Nissan fast charger (440/480 VDC)
Charge port(s): front/center under Nissan badge plate
Regenerative braking upon releasing accelerator (i.e. AC Propulsion style)
12VDC auxiliary electronics with separate battery (solar charger backup on rear of car roof)
Spare tire - undetermined
Availability: 2010 in some states (signups in Feb. 2010), 2012 planned mass production in U.S.
Price: undetermined, but targeted at under $35K for vehicle purchased battery pack"
LBNL Study: Wind Power Projects Do Not Decrease Land Values - Renewable Energy World
LBNL Study: Wind Power Projects Do Not Decrease Land Values - Renewable Energy World: "With more than 30,000 megawatts of wind energy capacity installed across the United States and more on the way, many communities are concerned about the impact of wind farms on the property values. A new report released today by the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL) evaluates that concern. The report found that that proximity to wind energy facilities does not have a pervasive or widespread adverse effect on the property values of nearby homes.
The new report, funded by the DOE, is based on site visits, data collection and analysis of almost 7,500 single-family home sales in areas where wind farms have been developed.
“Neither the view of wind energy facilities nor the distance of the home to those facilities was found to have any consistent, measurable, and significant effect on the selling prices of nearby homes,” said report author Ben Hoen, a consultant to Berkeley Lab. “No matter how we looked at the data, the same result kept coming back - no evidence of widespread impacts.”"
The new report, funded by the DOE, is based on site visits, data collection and analysis of almost 7,500 single-family home sales in areas where wind farms have been developed.
“Neither the view of wind energy facilities nor the distance of the home to those facilities was found to have any consistent, measurable, and significant effect on the selling prices of nearby homes,” said report author Ben Hoen, a consultant to Berkeley Lab. “No matter how we looked at the data, the same result kept coming back - no evidence of widespread impacts.”"
America's Right: 'The Promise of the Electric Vehicle'
America's Right: 'The Promise of the Electric Vehicle': "Lost in a lot of the hubbub, however, is the reality that it is indeed in the best interests of us all to be responsible stewards of our planet and make best use of our resources, not for concern that the seas will catastrophically rise or that the thriving polar bear population will drown, but because true energy independence is in our national interests, and because--like Boy Scouts striking camp and leaving a campsite--we have an overall responsibility to leave this place cleaner for the next generation than it was for us."
Left or right, EVs are a good idea.
Friday, December 11, 2009
Hey baby, what winks & has 3100 watts between it’s legs? | Greasy Rider
Hey baby, what winks & has 3100 watts between it’s legs? | Greasy Rider: "I suppose its fitting that ICE vehicles run on dead dinosaur pulp since they have a looming date with extinction in their future."
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Happiness Satisfaction
Tom Magliozzi quotes: "Tom Magliozzi said: 'Happiness equals reality minus expectations'"
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Nissan Long Range Battery May Be Ready by 2015 | Electric Vehicle News
Nissan Long Range Battery May Be Ready by 2015 | Electric Vehicle News: "Nissan Motor Co. is developing a lithium ion battery for electric vehicles that can store electricity at double the current capacity. Nissan aims to equip electric cars with the battery by 2015.
The new system is a lithium-ion battery using a lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide cathode. Capacity is raised by improving the positive electrode, specifically, using nickel and cobalt, not only manganese."
The new system is a lithium-ion battery using a lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide cathode. Capacity is raised by improving the positive electrode, specifically, using nickel and cobalt, not only manganese."
Talking plugs can be a smart investment
There is a huge initiative among companies like Google, IBM, Cisco and so many other smaller smart grid players to make the grid more modernized using cutting edge digital technology and tackle environmental issues, cost reduction and energy conservation. The common smart grid devices that have invaded the market are smart meters, data concentrators, system monitoring software, etc. They help utilities oversee the precise location of electricity consumption and predict potential blackout areas. Home owners can also monitor more clearly where and how the electricity is being absorbed which will provide them with more leverage to effectively save on energy and reduce their carbon footprint in the bargain.
Toronto Canada based ZerofootPrint has come up with one such device compatible with smart grid technology that it calls the TalkingPlug. It is a lot like Google’s power meter in function but less cumbersome. Google's home energy-monitoring software relies on meters, or add-on devices that can communicate usage information back to utilities. There are others in the markets that are add-ons to the vendors’ home network hardware. The talking plug idea so much more convenient as it does not require specialized installations of smart meter or a home energy display. It helps you keep a check on not only your power consumption but also compare it your neighbors. Yes, nothing like a little competition to make everyone go green with envy! But here it’s a good thing as green is where we want to go…It fits on all your standard electrical outlets and provides detailed information on electricity consumed by your appliances. The programmable plug is controlled by a wireless local area network (WLAN). It exposes errant appliances and energy sucking vampires in the home, sends a stream of information to a software program so residents can monitor or re-tailor their energy use, and turn things on and off remotely via the Internet or in person . Right now, the TalkingPlug is being custom produced, and each one costs about $50 but is expected to sell cheaper after the first year. ZerofootPrint CEO Ron Dembo says: “It will completely transform our world when plugs talk to each other and interact with each other.” Communication is definitely a good thing, in more ways than one!
http://networking.bizjournals.com/post/Groups/bizjournals_green/blog/talking_plugs_can_be_a_smart_investment.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+greenbizjournal%2Flatest+%28bizjournals+Green+%28on+ThePort%29%29&utm_content=Google+Reader
Toronto Canada based ZerofootPrint has come up with one such device compatible with smart grid technology that it calls the TalkingPlug. It is a lot like Google’s power meter in function but less cumbersome. Google's home energy-monitoring software relies on meters, or add-on devices that can communicate usage information back to utilities. There are others in the markets that are add-ons to the vendors’ home network hardware. The talking plug idea so much more convenient as it does not require specialized installations of smart meter or a home energy display. It helps you keep a check on not only your power consumption but also compare it your neighbors. Yes, nothing like a little competition to make everyone go green with envy! But here it’s a good thing as green is where we want to go…It fits on all your standard electrical outlets and provides detailed information on electricity consumed by your appliances. The programmable plug is controlled by a wireless local area network (WLAN). It exposes errant appliances and energy sucking vampires in the home, sends a stream of information to a software program so residents can monitor or re-tailor their energy use, and turn things on and off remotely via the Internet or in person . Right now, the TalkingPlug is being custom produced, and each one costs about $50 but is expected to sell cheaper after the first year. ZerofootPrint CEO Ron Dembo says: “It will completely transform our world when plugs talk to each other and interact with each other.” Communication is definitely a good thing, in more ways than one!
http://networking.bizjournals.com/post/Groups/bizjournals_green/blog/talking_plugs_can_be_a_smart_investment.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+greenbizjournal%2Flatest+%28bizjournals+Green+%28on+ThePort%29%29&utm_content=Google+Reader
Mini E Field Test Highlights Roadblocks Facing Electric Cars | Autopia | Wired.com
Mini E Field Test Highlights Roadblocks Facing Electric Cars | Autopia | Wired.com: "Mini E field-test data:
* Plug design: No worldwide standard of connectors currently exists. The Society of Automotive Engineers is expected to adopt a universal charging plug — known in the EV biz as SAE J1772 — sometime next year, but for now manufacturers are going their own way.
* Customer expectation management: Steinberg said Mini E field testers underestimated the challenge of installing a charger in terms of construction, permit authorities and local municipalities.
* Utility options and requirements vary: Electric meters vary from town to town. One solution is to install a secondary meter to avoid upgrading the existing panel. Secondary panels could be “smart” enough to charge the car during specific off-peak hours. (Off-peak electricity costs 50 percent less in California.)
* Inspection and permitting standards: In addition to being a big hassle, each municipality’s inspection and permit approval processes are unique. Steinberg said California was easy, but that New Jersey permit authorities and inspectors were a particular point of friction.
* Wallbox installation delays: BMW had to waive lease payments for some field testers “pending the installation of a fully operational wallbox.” In addition, fleet customers who tested a larger number of the vehicles didn’t seem to comprehend the urgency of identifying a suitable place to install the charger.
* Post-installation servicing and troubleshooting is murky. When the car won’t charge, several factors could be to blame: the car, charger, ground-fault indicator on the 110V cable or on the outlet, the circuit breaker, or the utility. Not only does this make problems harder to find than in traditional cars, but it also complicates the matter of which party should pay to send a technician to the home.
* Public infrastructure: Range anxiety is significant enough for widespread electric-car adoption to require public charging stations, and those must be cross-compatible between manufacturers, service providers and utilities.
* Vehicle-to grid-communication: All of this gets easier if the car can talk to the grid. Specific examples include charging subscription plans, smartphone reservation apps to reserve public chargers, and load-leveling calculations.
BMW unveiled the Mini E at the L.A. Auto Show on Nov. 19, 2008.
BMW unveiled the Mini E at the L.A. Auto Show on Nov. 19, 2008.
Approximately 1,800 people applied to field test the Mini E, which is being leased to customers at $895 a month for one year. Of those, 1,010 applications were forwarded to dealers, who chose 250 testers in southern California and 200 in New York and New Jersey. Field testers include private customers, nongovernmental organizations, municipalities and charities."
* Plug design: No worldwide standard of connectors currently exists. The Society of Automotive Engineers is expected to adopt a universal charging plug — known in the EV biz as SAE J1772 — sometime next year, but for now manufacturers are going their own way.
* Customer expectation management: Steinberg said Mini E field testers underestimated the challenge of installing a charger in terms of construction, permit authorities and local municipalities.
* Utility options and requirements vary: Electric meters vary from town to town. One solution is to install a secondary meter to avoid upgrading the existing panel. Secondary panels could be “smart” enough to charge the car during specific off-peak hours. (Off-peak electricity costs 50 percent less in California.)
* Inspection and permitting standards: In addition to being a big hassle, each municipality’s inspection and permit approval processes are unique. Steinberg said California was easy, but that New Jersey permit authorities and inspectors were a particular point of friction.
* Wallbox installation delays: BMW had to waive lease payments for some field testers “pending the installation of a fully operational wallbox.” In addition, fleet customers who tested a larger number of the vehicles didn’t seem to comprehend the urgency of identifying a suitable place to install the charger.
* Post-installation servicing and troubleshooting is murky. When the car won’t charge, several factors could be to blame: the car, charger, ground-fault indicator on the 110V cable or on the outlet, the circuit breaker, or the utility. Not only does this make problems harder to find than in traditional cars, but it also complicates the matter of which party should pay to send a technician to the home.
* Public infrastructure: Range anxiety is significant enough for widespread electric-car adoption to require public charging stations, and those must be cross-compatible between manufacturers, service providers and utilities.
* Vehicle-to grid-communication: All of this gets easier if the car can talk to the grid. Specific examples include charging subscription plans, smartphone reservation apps to reserve public chargers, and load-leveling calculations.
BMW unveiled the Mini E at the L.A. Auto Show on Nov. 19, 2008.
BMW unveiled the Mini E at the L.A. Auto Show on Nov. 19, 2008.
Approximately 1,800 people applied to field test the Mini E, which is being leased to customers at $895 a month for one year. Of those, 1,010 applications were forwarded to dealers, who chose 250 testers in southern California and 200 in New York and New Jersey. Field testers include private customers, nongovernmental organizations, municipalities and charities."
Project Get Ready: Preparing Cities for the Plug-in Electric Vehicle » Technical Adviser Meeting Minutes 11/12/09
Project Get Ready: Preparing Cities for the Plug-in Electric Vehicle » Technical Adviser Meeting Minutes 11/12/09: "Should cities install more Level 1 chargers or less Level 2 chargers?
* recommend level 2 – level one fine for PHEV, but pure BEV, especially with long range, push level 2 everywhere
* once they have EV they want level 2, level 1 not practical – can’t go very far – those who have studied issue want upgradeable units
* level 2 the way to go
* we found testing in japan – DC quick charge – can use this in garage and commute
* valet quick charge in parking garage – one charger services 50 vehicles a night
o eliminates icing – like a gas station – Tokyo area
* cities don’t want to double dip and do 2 sign ups and roll outs – so do an upgradeable – start with level 1 and upgrade"
* recommend level 2 – level one fine for PHEV, but pure BEV, especially with long range, push level 2 everywhere
* once they have EV they want level 2, level 1 not practical – can’t go very far – those who have studied issue want upgradeable units
* level 2 the way to go
* we found testing in japan – DC quick charge – can use this in garage and commute
* valet quick charge in parking garage – one charger services 50 vehicles a night
o eliminates icing – like a gas station – Tokyo area
* cities don’t want to double dip and do 2 sign ups and roll outs – so do an upgradeable – start with level 1 and upgrade"
Project Get Ready: Preparing Cities for the Plug-in Electric Vehicle » Technical Adviser Meeting Minutes 11/12/09
Project Get Ready: Preparing Cities for the Plug-in Electric Vehicle » Technical Adviser Meeting Minutes 11/12/09: "Should cities install more Level 1 chargers or less Level 2 chargers?
* recommend level 2 – level one fine for PHEV, but pure BEV, especially with long range, push level 2 everywhere
* once they have EV they want level 2, level 1 not practical – can’t go very far – those who have studied issue want upgradeable units
* level 2 the way to go
* we found testing in japan – DC quick charge – can use this in garage and commute
* valet quick charge in parking garage – one charger services 50 vehicles a night
o eliminates icing – like a gas station – Tokyo area
* cities don’t want to double dip and do 2 sign ups and roll outs – so do an upgradeable – start with level 1 and upgrade"
* recommend level 2 – level one fine for PHEV, but pure BEV, especially with long range, push level 2 everywhere
* once they have EV they want level 2, level 1 not practical – can’t go very far – those who have studied issue want upgradeable units
* level 2 the way to go
* we found testing in japan – DC quick charge – can use this in garage and commute
* valet quick charge in parking garage – one charger services 50 vehicles a night
o eliminates icing – like a gas station – Tokyo area
* cities don’t want to double dip and do 2 sign ups and roll outs – so do an upgradeable – start with level 1 and upgrade"
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