Only two Formula Lightning races favor stretch over speed, Bailey adds. Students hope that the installation of a two-speed gearbox will help close the gap. In testing battery technology's applicability to consumer transportation, the trick facing researchers is to make the batteries produce as much power for the car as gasoline does. The average car buyer probably won't be reaching for his wallet when electric cars first hit the showrooms. As with VCRs, personal computers, and other newly introduced high-tech products, Bentler says that the first electric cars will be pricey.
Cost estimates vary.
Either way, electric cars will be luxury purchases when they first hit the market. 50-100 miles before their batteries need recharging. For now, Bentler says, electric cars' distance capabilities better suit them for short trips to work or the grocery store than for weekend jaunts out of town. As the brakes are applied, these systems convert the motor into a generator, which transfers power to the batteries. ASU's electric car team currently is developing an energy storage system using capacitors that will store power produced by regenerative braking.