Carbon drive systems and infinitely variable planetary hubs sound like they belong on a spaceship that doesn't exist yet. So, you'll either be excited or disappointed to hear that all of this futuristic-sounding technology is available right now, on an electric bicycle.

Electric cars have a lot going for them, but pedestrians sometimes fear them for their lack of noise. If you're crossing the street, and an EV is coming at you, chances are you won't hear it coming. Automakers have responded by installing noisemakers (some incredibly cool), including Toyota, which just unveiled one for its popular Prius. One problem: it's optional.

Californian startup Coulomb Technologies is looking to litter the country with thousands of public power stations for electric vehicles to juice up at. Does it feel too early for the all-electric future? Maybe, but apparently sales are picking up — 19,000 people have already preordered Nissan's leaf.

Renault sure does come up with some out-there concepts. Remember the Twizy Z.E.? It had hexagonal wheels. Now Renault is showing off the Zoe Z.E., which has an interior that mirrors a "spa-like experience." The engineering focus is on the...