Electric cars, hybrid vehicles and bio-fuels.

The use of solar, wind, nuclear, geothermal electricity generation along with carbon capture for fossil fuel powered plants means that in the long run, electric vehicles will produce less carbon dioxide over their life time since it is impractical to reduce carbon dioxide and NOx at the tailpipe of diesel/bio fueled cars. According to NESEA, electric cars can achieve up to 100% reductions with renewable electric generation vs 77% will B100 (100% bio-diesel car). At present only 32% reductions of carbon dioxide is available for electric cars recharging from non-renewable utilities on the US Grid, due to heavy fossil fuel use and inefficiencies. [1]

Convert your gasoline car to an electric car

An electric car's efficiency is affected by its charging and discharging efficiencies. A typical charging cycle is about 85% efficient, and the discharge cycle converting electricity into mechanical power is about 95% efficient, resulting in 81% of each kW·h being put to use. The electricity generating system in the USA loses 9.5% of the power transmitted between the power station and the socket, and the power stations are 33% efficient in turning the calorific value of fuel at the power station to electrical power. Overall this results in an efficiency of 0.81*0.3=24.2% from fuel into the power station, to power into the motor of the grid-charged EV, still better than the average 20% efficiency of gasoline-powered vehicles while ignoring the energy used to pump, refine and transport the gasoline to the gas station as well as external costs of gasoline such as smog and global warming. [2]

Run a car on water

Barack Obama says : "My low carbon fuel standard would require a 10 percent reduction in carbon emissions by 2020. I know that sounds ambitious, but the magnitude of our nation's problems demands bold and innovative action. Indeed, the experts with whom we have consulted firmly believe that a 10 percent reduction is realistic with greater research into advanced bio fuels and new fuel sources. But that research will only happen if businesses are assured of a market for their new products. And just as the existing RFS has spurred the construction of ethanol plants, a low carbon fuel standard would incentivize the development of new advanced fuels."[3]

DIY Power System

Conclusion

I believe that by replacing gasoline powered vehicles with alternative vehicles, such as electric cars and hybrid vehicles or by using bio-fuels, we can greatly reduce the global energy consumption and our individual carbon footprints. I also believe that it is more economically viable in the long run. I also believe electric vehicles can be practical for both city and highway use considering speed, range, acceleration and charging times.
-ELK Roux (B.Sc. Electrical and electronic engineering).

References

[1] Transportation Climate Change
[2] Electric car
[3] Obama low carbon fuel initiative