Perhaps the centerpiece of the whole affair is the “Alt Energy Drive to the Summit.” Participants will have the opportunity to drive the 7.5-mile length of the Mt. Washington Auto Road in something of an echo of a similar event that took place for several years in the 1970’s, when America was in the midst of its “energy crises.”
Besides giving an opportunity to show off the hill-climbing abilities of the vehicles on hand, it also provides a chance to reflect on just how far alternative transportation choices have come in the last few decades. Instead of being stuck with cheese-wedge mobiles like the Sebring Vanguard Citicar (pictured) – as geek chic as that might be – we can, if we like, choose from any number of modern looking, fully capable automobiles, motorcycles and electric bicycles.
Scroll down for the official press release along with a complimentary video from event director – and From Fossils To Flux author – Ted Dillard taking his own two-wheeled battery-powered creation to the 6,288-foot peak.
PINKHAM NOTCH, NH-Given that once experimental alternative energy technologies have now become mainstream, an event with a storied history on the Northeast’s highest peak is returning as the “Mt. Washington Auto Road Alt Energy Summit” on September 14-15, 2013. In this regard the Auto Road is continuing on its historic path as a proving and playground for new and evolving technologies.
Categories will include EV manufacturers, dealers, retailers, groups and associations, makers, inventors, developers, publications and related media, components/parts and services. Individuals and organizations with vehicles including cars, trucks motorcycles and bicycles or unique one-of-a-kind creations are also invited. An Energy Expo Exhibit area is planned, which will include vehicle manufacturers, related alternative energy businesses and historic vehicles which have ascended Mt. Washington by other than gas powered engines. Exhibits and information regarding other sustainable energy sources will also be featured, including hydro-electric, wind power, solar power and geo-thermal.
Event Director Ted Dillard has both a technical and practical understanding of alternative energy, as he both builds and rides electric motorcycles. “In the midst of the mid-’70s “Energy Crisis”, a small group of inventors and visionaries formed a unique event with the Mt. Washington Auto Road as it’s backdrop and proving ground,” Dillard observed. “As we move into the second decade of the 21st Century, we’re seeing many of those solutions become commonplace – nearly mainstream – in daily life. This event will celebrate those pioneers, re-affirm the Mt. Washington Auto Road’s century-long commitment to responsible stewardship of public lands, and bring “Alternative Energy” solutions into the forefront of mainstream renewable energy. This event will be a landmark event in New Hampshire!” he added.
What to Expect:
- Vendors, Dealers, and Manufacturers of Hybrid, Plug-In Hybrid, Plug-In Electric and Alternative Fuel vehicles showing some of the most remarkable vehicles available today – complete with test rides.
- Information “roundtable” discussion sessions for homeowners, backyard inventors, public administrators, fleet managers and others on Renewable Energy solutions available today, and funding opportunities and resources.
- Supplies, components, parts and systems for Renewable Energy systems for homes, businesses and vehicles.
- Exhibits of unique, creative and innovative solutions for energy and transportation systems offered by inventors, students, “makers”, researchers and enthusiasts.
- The Alt Energy Drive to the Summit – watch and cheer on our “Alt Energy contestants” as they make history on Mt. Washington. Everything from home-built electric bikes, cars and motorcycles to the sleekest high-performance plug-in vehicles on the road today will be on hand. Watch for some truly unusual solutions there as well, including some top-secret “unmanned transportation” research projects currently in development. Awards and categories for the Summit will reward ingenuity, creativity and dedication.
