I'll try to keep politics out of this post.

Here in NZ we run mostly on renewable energy, as of right now we're at 86% renewable generation but it can get over 90% at times. For the nerds, https://www.transpower.co.nz/system-...ated-live-data shows live data - we're small enough to get away with a single main grid.

The incentive to purchase EVs here has been based on a sliding rebate/fee scale, depending on the CO2 emissions of the vehicle being purchased. New EVs receive a full rebate of about $US4,300, while the highest polluters end up paying a fee of about $US3,000. This means you can buy an ICEV if you want, and if it's efficient enough you might even still get a rebate, but if it's more polluting then you pay a one-off fee at registration. Imported used vehicles are also subject to rebates but at a lower level.

This scheme is being walked back under the new government elected in October, which I'm in two minds about. It's good for us as a family because exactly zero vehicles are available in right hand drive that can haul 7,700lb or more, but the country as a whole can do with a lot fewer smoky old beaters in circulation. Our old Leaf was great for school and shopping runs when we lived in town, and would be perfect for the hordes of commuters sitting alone in their car, idling in city rush hour traffic. It was even quite fun sometimes, it could blast off the line at quite a decent clip - quicker than our VQ35-powered wagon. Um, theoretically. *cough*

Social battle lines have been drawn on the issue though, and few are willing to entertain the thought of crossing them. Our perfect vehicle would be something like our Q7 as an EV, but again there is no such thing. Audi's current e-Tron is close in size but has a pathetic range and can't tow much at all. The Rivian R1S is the closest thing but isn't available in RHD yet, and if/when it finally arrives it'll no doubt be at a wallet-rippingly extortionate price, like any US-sourced vehicle.

 

^^I won't be surprised to see something like that happening in the US. It will most likely start on the west coast!

 

VW custom bus - bug

 

I saw somewhere late Johnny Carson’s Delorean is up for sale at Haggerty’s Auction. Current bid is around $50k. It is sharp looking. What a beautifully designed car that was!

https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/john...193000261.html

 

sounds cheap to me

 

I want to get a cover for my S. Just something lightweight to keep dust off when maintenance is being done in the garage. Will be using it for three weeks. Recommendations?

 

My mother made me one out of old bed sheets, and it worked well. I only mention this because it sounds like you only need it for short term use.

 

Cute looking vintage cars.

 

They weren't shooting for tight door and hood lines, in those Fiats.

Kindig It restored one of those. Very awesome job, as usual.

 

^ In Italy those were considered big cars back in the day.