Lithium Takes To the Road

The Fetish, an all-electric sports car unveiled in September by Venturi Automobiles of Monaco at the Paris auto show, relies on a lithium ion battery pack made from the type of cells normally found in portable electronics. Yes, it's surprising, but yes, it's also a trend. Because of their high power density and despite concerns about their flammability, lithium ion batteries are being eyed by makers of hybrid electric vehicles as an alternative to nickel metal hydride. For a rundown on trials in progress and a discussion of the pros and cons, see "Can Lithium Deliver the Goods?" by Peter Fairley at /dec04/3861