rethinking diesel

the words "diesel" and "race car" don't really go hand-in-hand. Technologically, diesel motors have become a lot more advanced since the ill-fated GM diesel engines of the 1980's, but the technology hasn't caught on in the US. Car modifier and DIY enthusiast Gale Banks wants to change the image of diesel by providing a different user experience, one that could change people's minds. He's built diesel racing truck capable of speeds over 220 miles per hour. Perhaps more amazing is that while racing, the truck is capable of attaining a respectable 24 miles per gallon. To put this in perspective, a (gasoline-powered) Bugatti Veyron at top speed (253 mph) consumes one gallon of fuel per mile... which works to one gallon every 14 seconds.
Gasoline as a technology conttributed greatly to the car culture, especially here in America. Obviousy, to solve the impending fuel crisis, serious cultural changes will need to be made, but diesel could provide a temporary solution.

click below for the video (via boing boing)

http://tv.boingboing.net/2008/01/21/gale-banks-diesel-an.html