NOW on PBS Season 5 Episode 8 Electric Car Dreams

Electric cars may sound like futuristic machines, but the technology is already here. Electric Car Dreams is the eighth episode of the fifth season of NOW on PBS. In this episode, viewers are invited to explore the latest in electric car innovation and what's driving this technology forward.

The show starts with a look at the Tesla Model S, a sleek electric car that's been making waves in the automotive industry. NOW on PBS takes us for a spin in the car, exploring what makes it so special. From its 0 to 60mph in under 3 seconds acceleration, to the dummy proof interface of its touch screens, the Tesla Model S is an impressive feat of engineering.

The episode also covers the history of electric cars, starting with their creation in the late 1800s. Electric cars were popular in the early days of the automobile, but quickly fell out of favor with the rise of gasoline-powered engines. The episode explores why electric cars never gained widespread adoption in the past and what's different now.

Next, NOW on PBS takes viewers to Detroit, where the North American International Auto Show is held every year. The crew interviews auto industry experts and car enthusiasts about the future of electric cars. Some are skeptical, arguing that electric cars aren't practical for long-distance driving or for people who don't have garages to charge them in. Others are more optimistic, pointing to the improving battery technology and charging infrastructure.

The show also covers the environmental benefits of electric cars. With concerns about climate change and air pollution, reducing the number of gas-powered cars on the road is an appealing solution. NOW on PBS visits California, where the state government has set ambitious goals for electric car adoption. We meet a family who relies on their electric car as their primary mode of transportation, and learn about the benefits they've seen since making the switch.

One of the challenges of electric cars is their high cost. The episode explores efforts to make electric cars more affordable, including tax incentives and subsidies. We also meet people who have converted their gasoline-powered cars into electric vehicles, using kits or building their own systems from scratch. These enthusiasts see electric car technology as a way to reduce their environmental impact and save money on gas.

Finally, the episode covers what the future of electric cars might look like. We see interviews with experts who predict that electric cars will become more affordable and that the charging infrastructure will improve. We also hear about the potential for electric cars to be integrated into a smart grid, allowing homes and businesses to use their car batteries to store excess energy from renewable sources like wind and solar.

Electric Car Dreams is a comprehensive look at the technology and social factors driving the adoption of electric cars. From the Tesla Model S to the potential of a smart grid, the episode covers a wide range of topics related to electric cars. Whether you're an auto enthusiast or an environmentalist, Electric Car Dreams is sure to give you plenty to think about.