Lightyears away from production

More than once my Dutch counterparts have pointed out that I’m strangely optimistic. I’m enthusiastic and can easily buy into what people in the high tech world are selling. Startups are my favorite. I’m a sucker for an old-fashioned underdog success story and I love to see innovators try to change the playing field. But as positive as I am, there are some startups that leave me with many more questions than answers, clouding my zeal with realism and more than just a hint of skepticism. A perfect example – Lightyear.

Yes, the Lightyear One has some impressive technology. Designers opted to construct the car using light-weight aluminum and carbon fiber, which significantly cuts down on weight, while still delivering a sporty look. The extremely low drag coefficient means the car can travel further with each charge. A hood, roof and trunk all made from highly efficient solar cells panels for supplemental charging – all very cool.