Foldable electric car has made its debut in Europe. The “Hiriko” is powered by four in wheel motors that each turn a full 90 degrees. Its compact and compactable design along with its four wheel steering allows parking in the tightest of spaces on crowded city streets. When folded, three of the cars can fit in one traditional parking space. The cars seem ideal for the crowded city life that they were designed for. The MIT Media Lab envisions the car becoming a type of car share program where people can essentially rent the car and park it back at any available charging station through out the city. I think it is a very creative idea and should be pursued in cities that are overwhelmed with congestion. The Hiroko could be very useful in these big congested cities helping people get around as well as being exceptionally space efficient. I could see myself using one of these cars if I was downtown and did not want to pay for a cab. It would also be quite fun for me and my friends to whip some of these things around town.
Saturday, January 28, 2012
Gingrich's Colony
Newt Gingrich promised this week that if elected, during his presidency we would see a moon colony as well as a new propulsion system to get us to Mars. Technologically we have the capabilities but at this time do we really have the finances to take on such rigorous activities? I personally think it would be very interesting and fun to watch mankind extend our horizons from earth to having people call moon home. But I do not think that now is the time for that.
We have so much going on that needs our attention here on earth. Obviously the economy is nowhere near where the overall public would like to see it and government is in debt. I think that getting the program started and rolling could be beneficial by creating jobs and extending innovation. Our nation could really use something to the rally around as well. When we landed on the moon in 1969 it brought the country closer together and boosted morale. I think the idea is very ambitious and exciting but I believe now isn’t quite the time to begin looking for real estate on the moon.