Dying Technology: Combustion engines

Given the geopolitical, environmental, and economic problems associated with oil, the drumbeat to replace combustion engines becomes louder every year. It’s just a question of coming up with an affordable replacement that will satisfy the needs of the driving public. Easier said than done, of course, but auto companies around the globe are pouring millions into finding a solution. "We have to get it to the point where [battery technology] can provide a pure battery electric range of about 300 miles in an efficient package," says Rob Peterson, a spokesman for Chevrolet’s plug-in hybrid-electric Volt. He says the combustion engine isn’t going to be obsolete until that happens and a nationwide infrastructure is in place to let drivers recharge their cars. "That is the tipping point."