Sign Into Environment 911How Does a Compressed Air Car Work?
Believe it or not, a car can run on air; yes, air. In recent years, many readers may have seen one of the numerous stories regarding the development of an air driven automobile. In September, Toyota set a new speed record with their latest air powered vehicle, KU:RIN. The KU:RIN achieved a top speed of 80.3 mph, according to autoblog.com. Since the late 1970s, a number of innovative corporations and many dedicated researchers have been diligently working towards designing a practical, compressed air car for consumer use.
So, how is it possible for a car to operate on air power with no sail or wind? The simple answer is: compressed air. Some readers may be familiar with the CO2 cartridges used to propel paint balls from paint ball guns. These cartridges are filled with compressed air. When the trigger is pulled, a small amount of the compressed air is released, or allowed to expand. The pressure, forcefully, projects the paint ball toward the target.
In an air fueled automobile, a tank is used to store compressed air. When the driver presses the accelerator, a valve releases the air. The expanding air enters the cylinder housing and applies pressure to the piston. The pressure causes the piston to move. This movement is transferred to the crankshaft, which makes the wheels turn. A built-in air compressor is used to refill the tank. The compressor requires gas or an alternate source of power.
A limited range of mobility is one of the most problematic issues for air car engineers and researchers. The impracticality of restricted short distance travel capabilities is an obstacle that must be overcome, before air cars are manufactured for consumers. Compressed air cars have not proven to be fast pace-setters, either. Until Toyota recently conquered the need for speed, the highest averages were around 35 mph.
Toyota’s three wheeled KU:RIN is designed to operate using a slightly different technology. It has a reversed air conditioner system, which produces the compressed air necessary to move the vehicle. The car is faster than any of its predecessors, but is still burdened with a limited travel range. The KU:RIN body style is extremely aerodynamic. The interior will accommodate one person, the driver.
Compressed air cars are often referred to as green cars. Some environmentalists claim that many of the production processes are more harmful to the environment than the numerous detriments from conventional transportation. However, MDI, Tata Motors, Zevolution, Honda and others continually strive to eliminate environmental hazards from their designs.
A bit of diligent research might lead readers to believe that the development and production of compressed air vehicles and various other forms of green technology has been deliberately hindered by certain powerful figures, corporations and governments. Air power is not a new concept. In fact, the idea has been around for centuries. According to aircarfactories.com, research and development in this field may have begun as far back as 1687. Given the abundance of other advancements and innovations during the past 325 years, one might question the hindrance in producing a viable compressed air car for consumers.
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