Not a Silver Bullet, rather many BBs. This article goes into depth regarding electrifying US railroads and the many benefits of doing so.

This is the kind of thinking we are in desperate need of around here. It is well thought out and possible. Here are some of the points made:

• technically feasible today
• reduced oil usage by utilizing the much greater efficiencies of rail based freight and transferring truck based freight to rail (and in some cases air freight)
• synergies with alternative energy sources along rail lines
• better use of current electrical infrastructure
• economic benefits
• decreased road damage
• safety
• national security
• job creation

This piece finishes with well thought out solutions.

I know it's supposed to be Jump the Shark, but c'mon? This is electricity we're talking about here. And instead of its original meaning as an allusion to ridiculousness, my intent here is to commend Mercedes for doing something not only unpredictable, but heroic.

This is truly an awesome announcement from a major player, in any industry. For them to put this particular stake in the ground, that they will no longer build gas burning vehicles, indicates to me that they have either already developed much of the technology they deem necessary, or, even mo' betta cooler, they believe they can develop what is necessary.

In a way I hope it is the latter of the 2. That'd be like a call to put a man on the moon.

Whichever it is, full congratulations to them for having the seeds to say this publicly.

According to Mr Rubin and Treehugger the gas stations of our future may need to team up with local chiropractors to get that crick in our backsides fixed.

Hyper-milers, though a little extreme at times, have developed  some practices which could be adopted by less enthusiastic folks. For instance, removing roof racks and/or extraneous weight from the trunk, like your golf clubs.

Wikipedia

Driving Tips:

www.fueleconomy.gov lists official EPA mileage ratings for most cars and trucks from the 1985 model year on.

www.cleanmpg.com has detailed tips from top hypermilers, including Wayne Gerdes, who is widely credited with coining the term.

www.ecomodder.com, Benjamin Jones' how-to site for people willing to modify their cars to boost mileage.

www.ecodrive.org takes a global look at driving for mileage, and points to European countries that now require ecodriving instruction.