The future is here and it is a Tesla!

Our friend Gísli Gíslason invited us to test drive the American-designed and made Tesla S, engineering marvel of enormous power, stealth, energy efficiency, and beauty. We drove to Hellisheiði and had a chance to experience a smooth, firm, silent ride and feel the raw power behind the vehicle. We returned to Reykjavik University where many marveled at the sight of the vehicle in front of the school.

While the Model S was designed for the relatively up-market customer, Tesla Motors is believed to be working on developing mass production vehicles at more accessible prices; if their models produced to date are any indication, there is every reason to believe that they will succeed. Electric vehicles provide Iceland with the opportunity to rely exclusively on renewable energy as most motor vehicles used in Iceland today rely almost exclusively on fossil fuels. We are naturally proud to see American technology taking a leading role here in Iceland.

Impressive interns at Carbon Recycling International

I had the pleasure of meeting a large contingent of interns spending their summer working at Carbon Recycling International--the world's first industrial plant that converts CO2 emissions from a geothermal plant into methane fuel. The group included a large contingent of American college students from prestigious institutions.  Other nationalities  included Canadian, Polish, German, Chinese and Icelandic.  It was great to talk to these young people committed to making renewable energy the way of the future.

Chevy Volt – a perfect fit for Iceland

I had the pleasure of driving the Chevy Volt and learning about its capabilities. It is the first long range electric vehicle on the mass market and the winner of many awards. I believe that the vehicle could make a significant contribution towards making Iceland the first country in the world to rely 100% on renewable energy. The vehicle is reportedly capable of traveling 60 km without a single charge and this could be extended depending on driving practices, since the vehicle charges its batteries while moving. Given the size of Reykjavik and driving patterns here, a commuter could conceivably use the vehicle all week without ever using gasoline. Think about it. It is truly revolutionary. I look forward to the unveiling later today of the vehicle for the Icelandic market; Icelanders will immediately see the potential for moving ever closer to a future powered 100% by renewable energy.