Clean Car Challenge

From Washington Post Sen. McCain offers $300 million prize for new auto battery
McCain’s energy policy is described in a speech today.
Key points:
“The Republican presidential nominee-in-waiting is proposing a $300 million government prize to whomever can develop an automobile battery that far surpasses existing technology.”
“The Arizona senator is also proposing stiffer fines for automakers who skirt existing fuel-efficiency standards, as well as incentives to increase use of domestic and foreign alcohol-based fuels such as ethanol.”
“In addition, a so-called Clean Car Challenge would provide U.S. automakers with a $5,000 tax credit for every zero-carbon emissions car they develop and sell.”

Public transport in Brisbane

An Op-Ed in the Courier Mail by Chris Hale on public transport in the Queensland, Australia city of Brisbane (population 1.8 million according to wikipedia)Kevin Rudd on right track with push for public transport l
The article notably discusses the importance of ticketing and signing, which are far too neglected in consideration of public transport use.
Whether the combination of density and energy prices is sufficient to support rail is an empirical question.