Is this the future? If it is, COOL!

[SNAFU]

I seriously hope this is not all just hype!

http://sfglobe.com/?id=832&src=fbfan_832

[Eris0303]

What I need to know is there a way we can sign up to be guinea pigs? If it means not having to shovel ever again they are more than welcome to use my driveway

[SNAFU]

I know, right? It is an amazing concept across the boards. Imagine losing out reliance on fossil fuels. Watch the power in the Middle East dwindle as the need for oil decreases! A Delicious prospect!

[Eris0303]

Fewer car accidents due to ice, snow, and other hazards. Less money spent on maintaining roads. We lost power for 28 hours during/after Sandy. With these roads that probably wouldn't have happened.

[HorseTears]

Yeah... for this to work on a scale that would actually impact energy resources in the US, the upfront costs would be hundreds of billions of dollars - if not more. I agree, it seems like a lovely idea - perhaps for the construction of NEW roads, but replacing even a small but significant percentage of existing roads is just unfeasible. Not to mention - how would people get around while their asphalt highways were being replaced? I admire the ingenuity and passion of this couple, but if this really catches on, it's basically going to be the new KONY 2012.

[AEA AGMA SM]

"Not to mention - how would people get around while their asphalt highways were being replaced?"

You do the upgrades and replacements in pieces. Closing sections of highways and roads, be it reducing the number of lanes in use, or just completely closing a section and creating detours, happens all the time as it is when current asphalt/concrete roads need maintenance or upgrading.

[SNAFU]

I agree it would cost a lot up front and the Oil Companies will not like it one bit. It doesn't have to be done all at once But over a span of time. If we as a species don't start making some sensible plans for a clean energy source, once we reach Peak Oil And the finite supply begins to dwindle with demand way outweighing supply. we will see society as we know it crumble.