I recently saw some buzz about the MDI (Motor Development International) air powered cars. This isn't the first time I've heard about them, but they have evolved a bit since I read anything about them in the past.

Now, I wouldn't expect to see them anytime soon in the United States. These are very lightweight vehicles and would not pass US crash testing. There would also be a prohibitive cost for insurance. At this stage, as much as I would like to drive a zero emissions vehicle, I wouldn't want to hit the roadways and mix with regular traffic (It could get pretty ugly if one of these were struck by a standard vehicle let alone an SUV or a Tractor-Trailer). Overall a great little thing for zipping around a gated residential or retirement community or even a small town.

I love the idea, however there are issues as stated above as well as the fact that compressed air is pretty heavy to store and, (unless they have come up with some breakthrough solution), refilling tanks can take hours for a full charge. (quick charging can be done, however this heats up tanks considerably and you would not be able to get a full charge). Overall a great little thing for zipping around a gated residential or retirement community.

MDI is also producing multi-passenger buses which can be extended with cars like a train. These 0 or low-emission vehicles could be practically applied to replace gas powered shuttles at airports, resorts and perhaps even public transportation.

Upsizing: The Road to Zero Emissions, More Jobs, More Income and No Pollution