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Old 05-26-2006, 05:40 AM
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bwilson4web bwilson4web is offline
Engineering first
 
Real Name: Bob
Location: Huntsville, AL
Hybrids: Prius Classic 03
Posts: 5,208
Default Re: go back to 55 mph?

Quote:
Originally Posted by blinkard
Actually, I think that the speed limit to be lowered to 55 for any vehicle getting less than 30mpg at that speed. You could never enforce it, but SUV's (with the exception of Porsche & BMW) were not designed for high speeds.

55 is a better speed limit than 65, in terms of fuel consumption, but at 55, people drove 65. At 65, people drive 70. A law that everyone's ignoring is useless. Leave it at 65, but enforce it vigorously. It's not a recommendation, it's a law.
Something like an unlimited speed limit lane with periodic passing lanes. Entrance requires an MPG efficient car. I LIKE IT!

Basicly three lanes of very high-speed, very level, all weather surface. The passing lane would have bulbous traction barriers to indicate which side has passing privilages in the center lane. Then have a set on the right side for 'auto steer.' This would be a great way to introduce 'smart streets' with automated drafting and steering.

Imagine a string of six hybrids rolling down the highway at 100 mph tucked within 10 ft. of each other. In each case, the driver is reading a book, watching the scenery and monitoring progress. Then at each 'passing lane', the lead car slows a bit and the others pass him and the lead becomes the follower. Their average MPG would still be over 50 MPG!!

Bob Wilson

Bob Wilson

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Operation Iraqi Oil Freedom:

Automatic, stock, project car.

My
other 1500 cc car:

Automatic, stock, backup car.
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