> One advantage of the electric motor, in addition to its very high
 > efficiency (95% & better), is that it develops maximum torque at 0 rpm
 > while an IC engine develops maximum torque around 60% of redline. The
 > problem is clearly not with electric motor technology. The simple fact
 > is the problem is totally in supplying the power to make it run.
Mike,
 This has been the problem for about 100 years now. Many folks don't realize 
it, but electric cars actually outsold gasoline-powered autos in the early 
days. If not 'outsold', they certainly held their own; they were quiet, easy 
to start, and women could easily drive them because of the latter. They were 
also probably more reliable than the gas cars of the period. 
Of course, IC engine technolgy kept evolving, and it does offer a HUGE 
advantage over electric. That is the energy density in a small, light, tank 
of gasoline; it's the equivilant of a monsterous battery. Plus it can be 
easily transported and dispensed into the automobile.
Your comment about torque vs. speed applies to a steam engine, too. And 
again, the Stanley Steamer was a popular car in its day, and was even pretty 
practical. However, as IC engine technology improved, the steamer became less 
attractive, as it was already at a high state of development by that era.
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