Why EVs are better at fighting climate change than hybrids
Q I don't understand the push for electric cars instead of hybrids. A relative owns a hybrid. It seems very efficient and recharges itself while they drive.
It's not tied to a charging station, unlike electric vehicles.
We consumers are already struggling to pay for electricity and gas, with higher prices in the future. How can electric vehicles be a reasonable solution? What am I missing? — Linda, San Jose
A Environmental journalist Peter Douglas, who writes the “Green Rides” column for the Bay Area News Group and other publications, provided perspective.
“While some hybrids are very efficient, the best electric cars deliver significantly greater emission reductions,” he said, “and reductions will continue to increase. Hybrids help fight climate change, but burn gasoline and produce some tailpipe emissions.
“The best battery-powered electric vehicles (BEVs) are far more energy-efficient than gasoline-powered vehicles, including hybrids. BEV owners who recharge at home spend considerably
Q Caltrans signs along Highway 17 at Summit and Los Gatos describe road work delays until May 25. Why are they choking off Highway 17 when side roads, Bear Creek and Old Santa Cruz, are closed, leaving this the only highway through the mountains? More than bumbling bureaucrats, as described by one reader, this shows inconceivable disregard for commuters, and is dangerous for mountain residents.
This work needs to be delayed until alternate routes are available. — Dennis Stewart, Redwood Estates
A There are so many repairs that need to be made everywhere. Getting them all scheduled and completed is difficult. With dry weather, work will move ahead on side roads, also.
Q A longtime user of roads (I'm 84), I have learned many things from your column, including important lessons, and it's just fun reading! A recent column brought a memory that might give you a chuckle.
I was one of the first Peace Corps Volunteers, and served in the Philippines from 1961 to 1963. When we went into service in July 1961, much of the country thought we were hippie freeloaders who just wanted to take a “moonlight cruise down the Amazon” (President Eisenhower) or Communists (House Un-American Activities Committee).
We first volunteers had many background checks, FBI checks, psychological exams, etc. At one police interview, I was asked about “my police record.” WHAT? Not ME! Oh, yes. It turns out that I had a police record in Santa Cruz, where I was born and raised before going to San Jose State in 1957.
My violation? I had forgotten in the fifth grade to renew my bicycle license! The Santa Cruz police kept track of us then (Santa Cruz was a very conservative town until the '60s). My “record” turned up in my background check! — Martha Allshouse Hull, Santa Clara A Great story, thanks for sharing it.
Look for Gary Richards at Facebook.com/ mr.roadshow or contact him at mrroadshow@ bayareanewsgroup.com.