We've seen hydrogen and electric-powered bike concepts, discussed the self-proclaimed motorcycle of the future, and glimpsed Suzuki's fuel cell-powered concept, but 2008 will be the year that zero emissions rubber meets the road.
On the four-wheeled front, I recently spent some time behind the wheel of Honda's new FCX Clarity concept, an incredible fuel cell vehicle that runs on electricity and hydrogen, spewing nothing but water vapor into the air. The cars will be leased to a pre-selected group of Southern Californians in summer 2008, and you can check out my Honda FCX Clarity review at Christine & Scott Gable's Hybrid and Alternative Fuels site.
Non-cagers craving a silent, zero emissions bike should check out Brammo's Enertia electric motorcycle, which will also be available next year. The bike, which weighs under 275 pounds, tops out at 50 mph, has a 45 mile range, and recharges using a standard plug in 3 hours. The Enertia isn't cheap: expect to pay $14,995 for a limited edition carbon fiber model (pictured here), or $11,995 for a standard model, which will be available by the third quarter of 2008. But like early calculators and ball point pens, these alternative energy vehicles will no doubt improve exponentially while prices drop, making the future just a bit more interesting.
© Enertia
