Balloonists set new solar target

The pair gained worldwide recognition in 1999 when they became the first to circumnavigate the globe in a balloon.

Now they plan to repeat the journey in a solar-powered aeroplane which will have to use batteries to fly at night.

A feasibility study has confirmed the viability of the Solar Impulse project and experts are now preparing to design the craft for launch some time in 2006...

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/sci/tech/3321491.stm

I read about this somewhere else, although at the moment the place escapes me. Should be an interesting undertaking and quite an achievement once it is completed.

as far as electrical vehicles are concerned I trust we know more than it is required to build efficient cars and plains

the main problem are oil industries around the world which are unwilling to let go of the high profits they have (would you?)

still some governments fight this pest step by step, so Japanese government supports Toyota in their efforts to make an efficient electrical vehicle

there's a gasoline / electricity driven Toyota SUV on display at Detroit

nevertheless, all the good luck to those flying around the world

Airnine

the main problem are oil industries around the world which are unwilling to let go of the high profits they have True, but eventually they are going to have to realize that they will be able to make just as much money in future, more economical adventures. I, myself can't wait for the cars like the GM Hywire and other hydrogen powered cars. It's going to take a long time, though. After all, if you think gasoline is volatile, try H! Actually, I am already looking into buying a Toyota Prius. I just like the idea of 60MPG! Talk about savings! PLUS, the government reimburses you up to $2K!
I love American automakers, but if they don't get with the times more effectively, they are going to get run over by the Japanese.

It's nice to see things like this flight. In the name of research, you know it will also lead to more effective use of our resources! Good luck!

Chris