Most people would agree that cars of the future will utilize green technology. The most compelling assumption is that future cars will all run on electric power. However, an electric power train is not enough. Future cars have to incorporate multiple aspects of green technology into a lightweight and aerodynamic shell in order to function with the same speed and power that we have become accustomed to.
Powerful Electric Powertrain
Electricity is not going anywhere. Too many people and major economy-driving corporations are dependent upon it as a power source. In order to ensure a greener future, major utility companies are simply going to utilize alternative natural energy sources to produce electricity. Therefore, the cars of the future will all run on electricity.
They will utilize technologically advanced electric motors attached to powerful lithium batteries. These advanced electric propulsion systems will be capable of launching cars from 0-60 mph nearly as fast as the gas engines we use today. They will also be able to reach top speeds of at least 90 mph in order to satisfy our need for speed. However, unlike cars today, future electric cars will have drastically improved efficiency, roughly equivalent to 200 mpg. For convenience, they will also be able to plug directly into any wall outlet for recharging. Unlike today’s electric cars, the green electric car of tomorrow will be able to travel much farther distances before needing to recharge.
Radically Aerodynamic Styling
In an effort to increase speed and distance capabilities, designers will turn to nature for inspiration for aerodynamics. Regular cars of today are a real drag, literally. They have a box-like shape that makes them extremely fuel inefficient. They become even more inefficient the faster they go, as they use much more energy for air dispersion.
The green car of the future will embody design elements that drastically reduce drag. Finding inspiration in the superior aerodynamics of fish and birds, designers will produce cars that will cut through air like a knife through butter. In order to accomplish this, future cars will likely have three wheels. A single wide rear-wheel will provide the streamlining necessary for less energy use while providing sufficient stability at the same time. A wide rear spoiler will likely be added for increased aerodynamics and stability control. In all honesty, the green car of the future will likely resemble the shape of a dolphin. They are some of the fastest, most efficient creatures in existence. Advanced composite materials will also be used for the body, making it much lighter than modern cars, thus increasing energy efficiency.
Renewable Materials
Judging from the increasing trend in the use of renewable materials, it is likely that the green car of the future will utilize as many renewable materials as possible. Seats and carpet will be made from recycled cups and plastic bottles. Interior fabrics will be colored from natural dyes. The roof will have solar cells to take the strain off of the main batteries for comforts like air conditioning and the stereo. The car of tomorrow will truly be a conservation car.
It is hard to imagine exactly what the green car of the future will look like or how it will drive. It is widely agreed that it will certainly be an all-electric vehicle. Based upon what we know thus far, it will likely be similar to what I’ve described here. One thing is for certain, no one knows exactly what the future will hold.
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