Electric Cars...

Well, it seems all the auto makers are jumping on the "electric car" bandwagon. They are all busting their necks trying to get some out there. Chevy is coming out with the "Volt" for 2010. But it's not because electric cars will help the environment - they won't. Instead, their rush is strictly founded in the word "profit".

Let's take a closer look at these things. But first, keep in mind a simple, indisputable law of physics: whenever you convert from one energy source to another, some energy is lost. So, whenever one energy source is used to create another, you end up with a net loss.

That said, the next step that any sane and reasonable person would take is to ask, "Where does the electricity for these cars come from?" Well, electricity is a source of energy that, for the most part, is created from another source of energy. In America, about 75% of all electricity is generated by burning some sort of fossil fuel - mostly coal, but some oil, as well.

Now, if you take that, and recall that turning fossil fuel into electricity results in a net loss, that means more, not less, fossil fuels are burned in order to run the cars.

Call me dumb, but if we burn more fossil fuels to get the same result, I don't see how that helps the environment. I don't see that as being "green".

Well, CHOP had their final cruise-in of the season on Tuesday, and I hear the Low's cruise is all washed up. Two Trails Diner in Standish has one more to go next Wednesday - so don't miss it. They have been getting a good turnout lately. And next Thursday will be the final cruise for the folks at Buffalo Wings n' Things, in Westbrook.

So, the cruises are winding down for another year, here in Northern New England. But the shows are still going strong. This Saturday is the Two Trails show in Windham, and Sunday is the great show in Durham. And there are still a few shows later this month, and through October. Check the HotKarz calendar for details.

Tomorrow I figure we'll be at Blast From The Past in Waterboro for the cruise. If we don't see ya there, I hope to see you at one (or both) of the shows this weekend.

Later!