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Efficiency? Think Racing Cars, Not Hybrids

Posted by timothy on from the more-fun-that-way-too dept.

Gordonjcp writes "A renowned racing car designer has said that car manufacturers should be looking at making cars lighter to improve efficiency, rather than adding complex drive trains. In this article on the BBC News website, Professor Gordon Murray explains that a weight saving of 10% in a normal car would make more difference than switching to a hybrid engine and motor combination. Could this be the next nail in the SUV's coffin?"

2 of 1,320 comments (clear)

  1. Re:Partially right... by Pope · · Score: 5, Interesting

    I like being able to see OVER traffic.

    This amuses me to no end, and I've heard it repeated from people at the Budget rental place as well as talking heads on TV. What possible use is seeing over traffic if you're still stuck in it? Are you following too closely and not paying attention to your surroundings or something?
    --
    It doesn't mean much now, it's built for the future.
  2. Re:In the US no one wants to buy light cars by NeutronCowboy · · Score: 5, Interesting

    In order for the miata to have the same energy-of-impact as the excursion, it would only need to be going 40% faster.

    Odd - slashdot managed to eat my post during preview.

    In any case, here's the equation you want: E=0.5m*v^2. Know that the weight of a Miata is 940 Kg and that of an excursion is 3261kg. For the Miata to have the same kinetic energy as the Excursion at 30 mph, the Miata has to drive at 55 mph.

    Who is the idiot who is driving 55 in a 30 mph zone?
    --
    Those who can, do. Those who can't, sue.