Hypercar

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

The Hypercar is an automobile that uses ultra-light construction with an aerodynamic body using advanced composite materials, low-drag design, and hybrid drive. Energy analyst Amory Lovins at the Rocky Mountain Institute (RMI) developed the design concept of the Hypercar.[1] Designers of the Hypercar claim that it would achieve a three- to five-fold improvement in fuel economy, equal or better performance, safety, amenity, and affordability, compared with today's cars.[2]

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[edit] History

In 1994, RMI founded the Hypercar Center to help prove its technical feasibility and commercial reality. The concept was placed in the public domain to maximize competition in capturing its market and manufacturing advantages. The result was billions of dollars' private investment, and rapid movement of Hypercar-like concepts toward the marketplace.[citation needed]

In 1999, RMI took this process a step further by launching a for-profit venture, Hypercar Inc. This independent company, in which RMI has a minority interest, is now taking the lead in advancing key areas of Hypercar research and development.[3]

In 2004, Hypercar Inc. changed its name to Fiberforge (www.fiberforge.com) to better reflect the company's new goal of lowering the cost of high-volume advanced-composite structures.[3]

[edit] See also

Energy Portal

[edit] References

  1. ^ Hypercars, hydrogen, and the automotive transition International Journal of Vehicle Design, Vol. 35, Nos. 1/2, 2004.
  2. ^ Diesendorf, Mark (2007). Greenhouse Solutions with Sustainable Energy, UNSW Press, pp. 191–192.
  3. ^ a b What is a Hypercar Vehicle? from Hypercar.com

[edit] External links