Re: ICEs can't burn h2

[Jones Beene]

Correction: Ultraconductors are expected to eventually be contenders for energy storage and to have twice the energy density of a *flywheel*  which is another high density storage option in contention for the next-generation of the perfect plug-in.   For now, It could be that a combination of (best available) battery and ultracap (for quick charging) could go into production, almost immediately, using an aircooled Wankel multifuel genset.   This should knock 300 pounds off the final weight of the present Prius. Using carbon-fiber body panels and frame, this new plug-in vehicle could also be an ultra-light, even with NiMH batteries.   Isn't it fun to be a futurist...     ----- Original Message ----- > Note that the Prius now uses NiMH batteries, no lead-acid. When I said "advanced batteries are cheaper over the life of the car," I meant the NiMH ones they now use. What is the performance of these in AH/Kg for comparative purposes? Plus.... Don't forget two other advancements - ultracaps and ultraconductors. Here are some numbers form web sources last year. The ultracap may be better now. For an advanced SLA  - Lead Acid-Battery: 12V 13AH 4200g For the UltraCap: 350 Farad  2.5V   60g ERGO SLA Battery:     13AH / 4.3Kg = 3.02AH/Kg  let's say a performance index of 3 UltraCap:     Q=CV => 350F * 2.5V = 875 Coulombs    1 Amp=1 Coulomb/Sec => 1 AmpHour = 3600 Coulombs => 875 / 3600 = 0.243AH    0.243AH / .06Kg = 4.05AH/Kg let's say a performance index of 4 That is a third better now. The Ultraconductor of MPI, when used in a capacitive mode may double the SLA, according to Mark Goldes. That would be ~6 or hopefully higher. Of course the vapor-ware hydrino battery is supposed to be about 50...?? Where does NiMH fit in? The nice thing about UltraCaps, according to these sources who have actually used them, is that they are in production now, and the cost is dropping but still high and you can charge them VERY fast !! TheSealed Lead Acid (SLA) battery, in comparison,  takes a LONG time to charge (4A max charge rate).  This can be important in certain hybrid designs. It is a real mystery why Apple did not go with ultracaps for  the nano - as it takes a couple of hours to charge. Knowing S. Jobs, this is probably going to be announced next week... ;-) Jones