This is just one of dozens of possible kinetic capture systems. They need to be explored, as it may be possible to obtain efficiencies superior to battery hybrids. So what you have here is supplementary to current hybrid tech. It's best to view it in the evolutionary sense. At times of ecosystem stress, there will be a large radiation of alternate competing designs, each seeking to derive some advantage over the other. Eventually, one or two of those designs will obviously have the competitive advantage, and the less efficient designs will fade. We are currently in the radition phase of a design paradigm shift. It's actually really cool being alive at this point in history, to see how it's all going to shake out.
I love how if one of the regulating valves on the tanks were to let loose, there would immediatly be a hundred+ pound steel tank flying into the base of the drivers spine.
On the other hand, it could provide massive acceleration. That sounds better. I'm going with that.
@Live_axle: Enjoy the massive acceleration while you can, because your wheelchair won't have it. On second thought, what about compressed air powered wheelchairs? That's an idea I could support.
Depends on the weight of the system, safety (what happens in an accident with a container full of high pressure air), and cost. But the idea of retaining some of the energy lost in braking is sound. Seems possible, but so does a flywheel (like the KERS racing flywheel), and the main thing with the flywheel is that it is unsafe. Too much trapped energy in there. I would imagine the same would be true of a compressed air container.
@dolo54 blows minds and blows engines!: The other day I drove my Jeep around with a plastic container filled with enough energy to drive it for 300 miles. It was a special chemical that was made to ingite with the slightest spark...
@Silvrt01: wow dude I did not think of that. you win teh internets. seriously though, gas is pretty stable. we've come a long way in making sure that it doesn't explode most of the time when there's an accident (unless you drive a pinto).
We should just use pneumatic air cannons to shoot appliance drivers to their desired locations. It will help with a certain natural selection, as well.
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Some of those long-winded blowhard bastards should be able to fill an entire fleet by themselves.
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This car really blows.
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On the other hand, it could provide massive acceleration. That sounds better. I'm going with that.
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Did Marx come up with this?
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@an skyline: You need a link for that rimshot, like this.