Originally Posted by sonoronos

Energy production is unfortunately somewhat political in nature, as opposed to energy usage which is more objective.

Compressing the air may be inefficient, but if the compressed air is provided from a waste or excess capacity source, it is economical. Consider, for example, large 10,000 to 50,000 liter underground air tanks used for heavy industry. Tanks must be filled uniformly to a set pressure to power equipment, which means that excess capacity is written off, especially if the tanks are dessicated on a weekly or monthly basis.

Using the excess capacity would be pushing the balance sheets towards the black. This is sort of like a production/six sigma problem - reducing waste may make even 12% efficient devices cost effective, if the initial efficiency is 0%.

In the real world, where most of us live, we need to be able to pull up to a terminal(gas pump) and fill our motive vehicle with enery and be gone. Compressed air systems may be a practical way to do this. Especially as a commuter car, which this design suggests it is.

I'm just arguing that in our current "Global Warming" hysteria, we need to address the pollution aspects and the copiuos consumption of any energy source. It is illogical for the left to pursue a solution to our gas crisis at the expense of conservation efforts and the environment. They do it all the time.

Sadly, they get away with it.



I don't think the indians are attempting to replace normal cars with this. It is and probably will be a niche market for those people who have excess compressed air capability.

That said, it's still interesting!