How to Understand Electric Cars

Electric cars seem to be perpetually in the future, like jetpacks and robot servants. Most consumers have the impression that electric car technology is always promised, but never delivered. There are several ways to get closer to the technology and better understand electric cars.

One of the most entertaining methods of obtaining a better understanding is to watch the documentary film titled "Who Killed the Electric Car?" which is currently available on DVD by Sony Entertainment. This engaging documentary by filmmaker and activist Chris Paine is an exploration of the rise and fall of the General Motors recent electric vehicle production program. Within the last ten years, GM produced and marketed a great electric car called the EV1. The EV1 was a dedicated electric vehicle, not a gas/electric hybrid, with full plug-in rechargeable capabilities. It was sleek, it was fast, it was efficient, it was clean running, it was loved by its drivers. It was also doomed. Fascinating collusions between state regulators, federal government, oil companies and vehicle manufacturers ground this electric technology into a pulp. "Who Killed the Electric Car?" is a passionate investigation into the Realpolitik methods utilized by special interests to squeeze out the EV1 and keep consumers in the dark.

An influential grassroots group calling itself Don'tCrush.com was formed prevent the physical destruction of approximately 1,000 electric vehicles by the auto companies that manufactured them. Paul Scott, a committed environmental activist, was a pillar of that group. In 2005, Scott co-founded a nonprofit organization called Plug In America (PIA) designed specifically to gather support and advocate for the manufacture of electric vehicles. Scott and PIA work with auto industry executives, engineers, consumers and policymakers on the local, state and federal levels to advance clean car technology. Scott as a spokesman and PIA as a nonprofit organization are go-to resources for essential information on issues of environmental improvement and reduction of petroleum dependence. Scott not only talks the talk, but walks the walk in his Toyota RAV4 electric vehicle, which he states is powered with the solar energy captured by the photovoltaic panels installed on the roof of his home.

The national organization known as the Electric Auto Association has regionally related chapters, such as the Electric Vehicle Association of Southern California, and each entity provides a further excellent source of information on the technology and the prognosis for general consumer availability. Another organization looking ahead to the technology horizon is the X PRIZE Foundation. This entity is most often associated with space exploration, but one of its next prize efforts will confront the challenge of energy and automobiles. Chelsea Sexton joined the X PRIZE Foundation in 2005 and brought with her a unique background in alternative fuel vehicles. Since joining the GM EV1 program at the early age of 17, she has become one of the best informed advocates for clean and efficient transportation. Sexton's specialty is working directly with drivers. She has a complete appreciation of the idea that driving can be and should be fun. She emerges as a force to be reckoned with in the documentary "Who Killed the Electric Car?" Looking for all intents and purposes like a California cheerleader, Sexton applies her superior knowledge of the technology to intelligent marketing strategies which coordinate corporate interests, legislative concerns and public policy. Sexton is a rising star in the industry and continues to consult with auto manufacturers on the goal of bringing clean fuel vehicles to market.

For now, the electric car is still on the horizon. But owing to the awareness programs set out by organizations like Plug In America, Don'tCrush.com, the Electric Auto Association and the X PRIZE Foundation, films such as "Who Killed the Electric Car?" and people like Paul Scott, Chelsea Sexton and Chris Paine, perhaps we don't have to be the Jetsons before we are behind the wheel of a truly future friendly vehicle.