By 2050 air travel is expected to increase six fold, and greenhouse gas emissions are projected to rise 50 percent. Planes are among the largest consumers of fossil fuels and emitters of greenhouse gases. So any way to save planes gas will surely impact greenhouse emissions. Cambridge University and Boeing have joined forces to build a hybrid airplane, one that sources its power from batteries stored in the wings and a conventional engine. The hybrid plane has 16 lithium batteries that send power to and charge from the engine at various times, operating much like a Toyota Prius hybrid car. Hybrid commercial jets are still a few decades away but this initial project showed promising results.
Hybrid aircraft takes flight
More of Today's Solutions
Friendships across income lines boost social mobility, study shows
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM A new study has found that friendships bridging economic divides can meaningfully improve social mobility—and even boost future ...
Read MoreNew cat color unlocked: ’salty liquorice’ sheds light on feline genetics
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM In a surprising turn for feline genetics, scientists have officially identified a new cat coat color that defies ...
Read More3 myths about self-help and personal growth we should all stop believing
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM When you hear the term "self-help," you may envision a stack of books with catchy, motivational titles. However, ...
Read MoreDo you have a toxic friend? A therapist’s advice on how to set boundaries
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM Friendships can be a source of joy and comfort, but unfortunately, even the most intimate connections can become toxic. ...
Read More
