Advertisements exist for an early prototype of an electric car in 1912.
It was a good idea then and it is a good idea now.
It is such a good idea that the fact so few of us drive one has lead to all manner of discussion - including a documentary film about who killed the electric car.
It is a good question.
Although GM are hoping their Chevy Volt will revive it.
The electric hybrid is due to be released in November next year, all going well.
It is expected to sell for about US$40,000.
Already one study has suggested that at that price they "are not cost effective in any scenario."
However, as technology improves and production increases they should get cheaper.
An ex-pat New Zealander, Ed Kjaer, is heading up a major electric car test centre in southern California that is working to get you driving electric.
His company now operates America’s largest private fleet of pure battery electric vehicles.
Last week, President Obama chose to visit Kjaer's workplace to announce a grant of US$2.4 billion to stimulate the electric vehicle industry.
It was the Kiwi ex pat who was his tour guide.
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