Energy Efficiency - Transportation
Flexible Carpooling (HOVER) Project
Researchers are evaluating a unique and innovative set of technologies and business processes developed by Trip Convergence, Ltd. in Auckland, New Zealand for use in California. They will explore issues such as impact to public transportation; operational concerns such as liability, legality, and insurance; and energy efficiency potential for the system. For more information about this project, click here.
Tire Roundtable
(Nov 17, 2008)
Recent legislation and aggressive initiatives focused on reductions in greenhouse gas emissions will require new and better ways of conserving energy. Consumer choice around purchase of energy efficient technologies will be an essential part of this new equation and must be based upon sound and clear information. One area ripe for consideration is the improvement of fuel efficiency through reductions in rolling resistance in tires. The purchase of tires is unique because it always involves a salesperson; for that reason the information delivery system must complement the procedure in which tires are sold.
On November 17, the Energy Efficiency Center convened over 40 representatives from tire retailers, tire manufacturers, government agencies, NGOs, and universities who participated in a roundtable discussion to examine in detail the tire purchase-transaction, that is, how consumers buy and how retailers sell, tires. Roundtable participants considered the problems of inserting new information--rolling resistance--into this purchase-transaction. Participants explored answers to: How information on rolling resistance/efficiency of tires should be delivered to consumers? What format would be most effective?
All participants gained an appreciation of the diversity of possible approaches as well as the impact of small changes. The regulatory agency representatives received valuable advice on how to shape future rules and voices not typically consulted were heard through an active dialogue and discussion process.
For more information about this forum, including the agenda and presentations, please click here.