Frank's Workbench IV

If, by adding millions of electric vehicles to the roads, we increase the need for more electric power generation plants, where do we put them and how much environmental and social impact will they have? Will they be accepted as a panacea for electric mobility? Or, will new power plants be viewed as a pariah, thereby bringing out every NIMBY on the planet?

Solar and wind will be a big help in reaching the recharge needs of millions of vehicles. More installations of these types will be needed.

There are already solar powered recharge stations that operate similar to gasoline filling stations. It just takes a bit longer. In the future, these can be placed anywhere the sun shines. I would suggest (I am sure that I'm not the first to think of this) that a restaurant/fast food place be added with possible entertainment available for the duration of a charge. Think: free TV, video games, pay per view, books, magazines.

Can you imagine driving down the Interstate, noticing that your ammeter is a bit low and looking for the next "Windmill" recharge station on the horizon? You can stop off for a quick top off charge, or relax and have a burger or ribs while getting a full charge. Maybe play a videogame or two. Or, just take a quick snooze. You'll get back on the road with a full feeling for both you and your vehicle. Consider it as "Truck Stops Revisited". Hotel/motel rooms should be available at some locations for the long-haul drivers on their off times.

These are just a few more things to consider.

Frank