Topic: Tesla Motors

A review of the Mini Cooper hybrid highlights how small three-cylinder engines are paired with electric motors to provide acceleration boosts. While the electric range is limited, the combination offers a practical application of hybrid technology for city driving. This shift in preference from full electric vehicles like Tesla to hybrids suggests a re-evaluation of battery limitations and vehicle utility.

John Stossel presented a historical overview of electric car "breakthroughs" dating back to 1915, characterizing the industry as a century of failure. Current concerns focus on Tesla Motors founder Elon Musk's reported financial difficulties and the environmental impact of manufacturing and disposing of large-scale lithium batteries. The $500 million government loan facility for electric vehicle development is also scrutinized.

A twin-engine aircraft carrying three Tesla Motors employees crashed into a transmission tower and houses in East Palo Alto after departing San Jose Airport in heavy fog. While some speculate about foul play involving big oil interests, technical analysis suggests a mechanical failure, possibly an engine stall, caused the plane to veer left and lose altitude before hitting the tower.

California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger released a Google Earth-based video warning of a 7-degree temperature rise and the disappearance of the Sierra snowpack. The video is criticized for appearing to be a commercial for Tesla Motors, highlighting the $80,000 electric car's 0-60 mph acceleration as a primary solution for climate change.