quite a bit of stuff that got overlooked in that. its still a pretty cool idea, I'd probably get one if I had the cash floating around. But I have some issues.
1) the $5000 cost is after reinbursement from your governments. It will vary from state to state for you, and I have no clue what it will be like for me in Ontario, Canada.
2) $1/gal production costs are when the sugar is bought in bulk, and you get carbon credits for making biofuel. Real cost is probably much higher.
3) Where did they get the idea that any car can run on any mix? There are materials that break down when exposed to high amounts of ethanol. Thats why an E85 car costs a bit more than a regular gasoline car (or truck). Its swapping out fuel lines and gaskets, I think. But I know it has to be done. It is certainly more than a little rewiring.
Near as I can tell, the average person in the US could save around $1000-1500 a year with this, per car that is driven daily. Thats after figuring in the cost of production and the decreased fuel economy, but is based off of their estimates for pricing. Now, if you sell the stuff to your buddies, you can make some real money. And probably a law or two - selling alcohol without a license.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Dragoneye
Dumb question: Is sugar renewable? In all honesty; I have no idea -- but I should. 
I really like this idea/machine. Only one issue I'd find with it; Even the flex-fuel vehicles have trouble running on pure-ethanol. Especially in the winter, so what are you supposed to do? fill up an 1/8 of your tank with gas, and then pump this stuff in? Wait - you could do that........nevermind  |
Let me answer your first question with a few of my own.
Have you ever heard of a sugar mine?
Do you know what makes fruit and honey taste sweet?
Since you may be operating at a diminished capacity today . . . the answers are 'no' and 'sugar'