Tesla Motors says all systems are go on unveiling their all-electric, “Model S” sedan by mid-2011. All except a $450 million (not billion) loan by the federal government. Referred to as “Silicon Valley’s solution to the nation’s energy problem,” Tesla says the Big Three’s inability to develop an all-electric vehicle spurred their motivation to try and become the first.

Taking into account Washington’s financial commitment to GM, Ford, and Chrysler, it seems only logical that the government would lend another American car company the money, especially since Tesla’s latest vehicle corresponds directly with the new administration’s agenda to increase the development of “greener” vehicles. Also, when’s the last time a company or institution approached the U.S. government for a loan under $500 million? Read the rest of this entry »

Time Magazine has published their list of the 50 greatest inventions of 2008. Many are inconceivable and way too futuristically scary — number 24 is bionic contacts that create “a display over the wearer’s visual field, so images, maps, data, etc., appear to float in midair.” Yet others on the list are useful products that could change the way we live while saving consumers some money.

#2, #7, and #46 are all example of different electric vehicles — from the half gas, half electric Chevy Volt, to the “sexy” Tesla Roadster that has George Clooney at the top of its waiting list.

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