Quote:
Originally Posted by kaisen
ICE evolution isn't at the steep part of the curve anymore, but everything about them has come a LONG way since the 1930's. Metallurgy, environmental impacts of production, smoothness, longevity, peak power AND overall power (over entire operating range). Computers have given the biggest push, both in physical engineering (FE, fluid, computational, etc.) and running the systems. There are still a few big ones left, and you'll see a couple in the coming decade.
Transmissions have also come a long way. And again, computers are mostly to thank. But 6 speeds are becoming the norm, and 8 speeds will be normal pretty soon. CVTs have come a long way. Computer shifted manuals are coming along.
Just look at the peak power outputs of the early 1980's for any given displacement, then measure today. Double the power.
Yet better fuel economy (many thanks to things you mentioned as well) despite increasing weight and greater rolling resistance from ever wider tires (as tastes change).
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Much increase in power output has come from VVT and four valves per cylinder, which was covered in the 1930's text book. These are also more expensive than just making a bigger engine.
But power output isn't fuel efficiency. And yes, out taste is not like the late 1970's/early 1980's, cheap, efficent, light econoboxes (my Datsun B210!).
As has ben pointed out, Solar cells have been around a long time. They have been improved and made cheaper. But they are still not cheap enough.
If TOU metering becomes the norm, PV will come on line faster. PV puts out full power right when it is needed. And with TOU, people will shift everything they can to nighttime (dishwashers, clothes washers, etc).
Again, the problem isn't just the PV panels. The grid-tied inverters are not cheap enough.