Rumor has it that Toyota is aiming to add a boost to its high end Prius by adding a solar panel to the roof. Current solar panel technology means that roof space is insufficient to generate much power, but the design does use it where it makes the most sense: helping power air conditioning, which you're more likely to want on when there's plenty of sun outside.
[Sources: eFlux Media, Auto Week]
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While most people are looking at cars to cut fuel costs, there are some folks who are looking to bicycles and other human powered or human/electric vehicles to eliminate fuel costs. Consider the velomobile, a recumbent trike with a full or partial fairing. These vehicles can be ridden in inclement as well as good weather and can clip along at 30 mph. on level ground with little effort.
Another alternative to the car is the electric bike. These vehicles are human powered with electric assist. . Adding a trailer to a bicycle gives it versatility by being able to haul children, groceries and other heavy items. With electric assist, the weight is not noticed because the electric motor assists in the work.
Neither the electric bike, nor the velomobile are cheap. However the average cost of owning a car in today’s world is over $8,000. An electric bike can pay for itself in less than a month. A Velomobile pays for itself in a year
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