Speaking just about the motor, there is no comparison and why modern rail locomotives use them. An electric motor has a high output and flat torque curve across the rpm band from start-up. It can eliminate much of the need for gearing needed in ICE engines.What are the preferences in gas motor vs electric? What is the power difference like?
Sure, and we can add the multiple Chrysler and GM bailouts, massive infrastructure investment for building and maintaining the interstate highway system and the expenditures for military adventures securing the flow of oil abroad.Whew!
STRONG, astute observation HV !
Gosh, if we could all have the subsidy the railroads and their engine builders enjoy, we'd be in like Flint, wouldn't we???
I mentioned the instant torque and power band characteristics of electric motors, not to mention they are almost noiseless.What are the preferences in gas motor vs electric? What is the power difference like?
Not stupid at all, rather one that is producing some contested discussion in legal forums. Floating around out there is the inclusion of E vehicles in a federal mandate for states vehicle code compliance.Stupid question: How does the law view electric powered bicycles, the same as gas powered? One of the things I miss with my powered bike is that I can't (legally) ride on bike paths any more. Is it the same for electrically powered bikes?
an ebike under 750 watts is a "Bicycle" in California.Not stupid at all, rather one that is producing some contested discussion in legal forums. Floating around out there is the inclusion of E vehicles in a federal mandate for states vehicle code compliance.
As to bike paths, where I live they are many, used heavily by bikers and walking people as well, and are posted 'no motor vehicles allowed'.
Gas bikes will raise issues, even an EHO35 with additional muffling, and today everyone carries a cell phone and are not shy about making a call. I know. On a practical level though, the stealth of Ebikes doesn't seem to raise the same degree of ire.
Federal Electric Bicycle Law HR 727
SECTION 1. CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY ACT. The Consumer product Safety Act (15 U.S.C. 2051 et seq) is amended by added at the end of the following:
LOW-SPEED ELECTRIC BICYCLES
SEC. 38. (a) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, low-speed electric bicycles are consumer products within the meaning of section 3(a)(1) and shall be subject to the Commission regulations published at section 1500.18(a)(12) and part 1512 of title 16, Code of Federal Regulations.
(b) For the purpose of this section, the term `low-speed electric bicycle' means a two- or three-wheeled vehicle with fully operable pedals and an electric motor of less than 750 watts (1 h.p.), whose maximum speed on a paved level surface, when powered solely by such a motor while ridden by an operator who weighs 170 pounds, is less than 20 mph.
To further protect the safety of consumers who ride low-speed electric bicycles, the Commission may promulgate new or amended requirements applicable to such vehicles as necessary and appropriate.
(d) This section shall supersede any State law or requirement with respect to low-speed electric bicycles to the extent that such State law or requirement is more stringent than the Federal law or requirements referred to in subsection (a).
Federal Law trumps State Law, so this should mean, if I'm reading it correctly, that a Low Speed Electric Bicycle should not have the same requirements as a moped, scooter or motorcycle.SEC. 2. MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARDS.
For purposes of motor vehicle safety standards issued and
enforced pursuant to chapter 301 of title 49, United States Code,
H. R. 727—2
a low-speed electric bicycle (as defined in section 38(b) of the Consumer
Product Safety Act) shall not be considered a motor vehicle
as defined by section 30102(6) of title 49, United States Code.