I recently enjoyed an episode of the Discovery Channel’s Future Car where they discussed Tesla Motors’ Electric Roadster.

What a sexy car.  Starting at about $91K USD, these machines look better than a Ferarri and move just as fast.  The best part is the lack of emissions, as these are 100% electric.

Electric cars have been around for quite some time (the first being manufactured by Thomas Davenport in 1830’s … that’s right … almost 200 years ago).  One of the biggest problems with these vehicles was the limited range they offered.  The Tesla Roadster has a range of about 400 km, and can recharge in about 4 hours give or take.  This would be more than adequate for most people’s commute to and from work.

Unfortunately, these are way out of my price range.  But while researching which vehicle might provide the best cost of ownership, I just had to include this one and run it through some numbers.  Based on the amount that Reiko and I would likely use a vehicle, and assuming that gas prices remain constant at $1.07 CDN for the next twenty years (not likely), this car would pay for itself through fuel savings in 19 years 9 months.

That almost worth it … by the time the vehicle pays for itself, it will be a classic :P

Unfortunately, I don’t think this will be the car for Reiko and I.  But it’s fun to imagine having a sexy little sports car in the driveway that can beat a Porsche off the line.