"Appropriate technology" thinking in car design
Appropriate technology is not a term that is usually applied to cars, but many of the principles of appropriate technology are relevant.
The W is a rare example of a car that was designed (in the 1930's) for the poorer segment of society, to be extremely efficient and low-cost. And yet it was also considered a very comfortable car, in its own way, with a flexibility of use that many more expensive cars lacked. Its lack of modern safety features make it an unsuitable car for most settings today - however in affordability and efficiency remains unsurpassed. Its remarkable fuel-efficiency is still unsurpassed by modern micro-cars, and perhaps even by the latest petrol-electric hybrid vehicles.W
The W also had many similar characteristics as the 2CV, though not as extreme, eccentric or efficient.
Modern fuel-efficient cars
Modern diesel cars can get better mileage than petrol-electric hybrid vehicles. The Opel Eco Speedster (a concept car) gets up to 113 mpg (2.5 L/100km[1]). See The Opel Eco Speedster Says: Diesels Can Rip and Sip at the Same Time on treehugger.com; or Ultimatecarpage.com page (with a few technical comments).
Retro-fitted technology
Devices to save the energy from braking have been developed to fit to trucks. Due to the expense, they are only cost-effective for large trucks, where heavy fuel use and long distances covered make it worthwhile.[verification needed]
Notes
- ↑ This conversion assumes the figure is in imperial gallons. If the 113 mpg is US gallons, that equals 136 mpg in imperial gallons; or 2.1 L/100km)
External links
- Earth Cars - a U.S. based network of car dealers, with information and tips for earth-friendly cars and car usage.