Category Archives: Science

World Record

Economics, Environment, Science

World Record fuel efficiency with Alcohol (not a hybrid)

Over at Brigham Young University in Utah, a team of 20 students has built a vehicle that beats anything on the market right now in terms of fuel efficiency, at least in a controlled competition setting. KSL-TV reported that the vehicle is capable of delivering 2,145 mpg, enough to take first place in the Shell Eco-marathon competition last month. However, it is not quite as straightforward as it sounds.

For the details, see: https://www.autoblog.com/news/student-built-car-hits-2145-mpg-and-beats-every-production-vehicle

What is important is that to learn is that we still have significant ways to improve fuel efficiency in both combustion & hybrid vehicles.

New Zealand Energy

Education, Environment, International, Science

New Zealand Energy

We moved to New Zealand a year ago after living in the USA for the previous 16 years. I met my wife when I lived in NZ from 2000 to 2009. One thing I did not know until recently was NZ’s intention to transition to 100% renewable energy. The following is from Wikipedia.

“The electricity sector in New Zealand uses mainly renewable energy, such as hydropower, geothermal power, and increasingly wind energy. As of 2021, the country generated 81.2% of its electricity from renewable sources. The electrification strategy is being pursued to increase the penetration of renewable energy sources and reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions across all sectors of the economy. In 2021, electricity consumption reached 40 terawatt-hours (TW⋅h), representing a 0.2% increase compared to the consumption levels in 2010.

The 2011–2021 Energy Strategy of New Zealand aims for a 90% share of renewable electricity by 2025. Following this, the government raised its ambition by setting a goal of achieving 100% renewable electricity by 2030.”

 In 2024, the rate was over 85%, but the 90% goal was still possible.

The EV Battery Race

Economics, Science

745 miles vs 930 miles: The US and EU are losing the EV battery race against China

While the USA is behind 745 miles, it would be excellent. The real breakthrough is with solid-state technology. The challenge will be to bring production costs down. See the following article

Story by Tyler Park

“Solid-state battery technology is moving closer to real-world adoption, marking a potential turning point for the electric vehicle industry. Often described as the long-awaited breakthrough in battery development, the technology promises to significantly extend driving range while improving safety. Recent reports indicate that both Chinese and U.S. developers have begun real-world testing, with early commercialization targeted around 2027.

Chinese automakers are pushing aggressively to lead this transition. Chery has unveiled a fully solid-state battery with an energy density of 600 Wh/kg, claiming a range of more than 930 miles under the CLTC standard and planning vehicle testing through its premium Exeed brand ahead of mass production. Changan is pursuing a similar path with its Golden Bell battery, targeting comparable range figures and preparing prototype deployments as early as 2026. Dongfeng has also demonstrated progress, testing a 350 Wh/kg prototype in extreme cold conditions with a reported range exceeding 620 miles.

At the same time, major battery leaders are bridging current technology with future breakthroughs. BYD continues to advance its lithium iron phosphate-based Blade Battery 2.0, delivering up to 620 miles of range alongside ultra-fast charging capabilities of up to 1,500 kW, enabling rapid charging in minutes. CATL is also moving toward solid-state development, with plans for limited production by 2027, signaling that large-scale industry adoption may not be far off.

In the United States and Europe, progress is being driven through partnerships and focused innovation. Factorial has integrated its solid-state battery into a modified Mercedes-Benz EQS, achieving an estimated range of 745 miles with energy density roughly 80% higher than conventional lithium-ion batteries. Collaborations with automakers including Hyundai, Kia, Mercedes-Benz, and Stellantis suggest that the first production vehicles using this technology could arrive within the same 2027 timeframe.

Beyond range improvements, the true advantage of solid-state batteries lies in their fundamental design. By replacing liquid electrolytes with solid materials, the technology reduces fire risk, increases energy density, and enables lighter, more compact battery packs. This opens the door to improved vehicle efficiency, more interior space, and new design possibilities. As competition intensifies globally, solid-state batteries are shaping up to be a defining factor in the next phase of electric vehicle development.”