OK, one really last thing, and a good thing too because it brings things back on topic!

I do believe that IRL's switch to ethanol HAS helped make it more popular to be seen as not just a 'greenie' fuel; perhaps the same thing COULD be done with electric as well.

NASCAR, in particular, "ostensibly" can use only cars that are "based" on "actual production" vehicles by the big three... so in theory they "can't" use electric vehicles until the automakers do.

So, yes, even in this narrow application of "racing" the change would have to come from the automakers... and if they want OUR money (i.e., taxpayer money, or even loan guarantees backed by "our" money) then we ought to include strings attached to the accelerated development of renewable-energy alternatives, especially the electric car.

In fact, this whole economic crisis could end up being a blessing in disguise!

Castigat Ridendo Mores
(laughter succeeds where lecturing fails)

"Those who will risk nothing, risk everything"