Final answer:
Selecting the best transporting alternative depends on efficiency metrics, environmental considerations, and the compatibility with existing infrastructure, while accounting for the challenges in transitioning to electric vehicles as a sustainable option.
Step-by-step explanation:
Picking the best transporting alternative depends on a variety of factors including efficiency in terms of kilowatt-hours per kilometer, mass and speed of the transportation mode, and the context of the cargo, whether it's measured in passengers or tons. For example, while container ships may require significant energy to move, they are more efficient per ton due to their large cargo capacity. Conversely, airplanes might seem efficient on a per-passenger basis but when considering the long distances they travel, the total energy expenditure is substantial. Additionally, there are environmental considerations such as the carbon footprint associated with transportation which increases with distance. When selecting a commuter vehicle, the design problem becomes finding one that is environmentally friendly, acceptable to the typical commuter, and compatible with existing transport infrastructure.
Furthermore, the transition to electric cars as an alternative to fossil fuels is fraught with challenges such as affordability, practicality, and the need for substantial grid infrastructure improvements. These issues exemplify why satisfying transportation needs through electrified transport is more challenging than using conventional fossil fuels, which have historically provided an easier path for transportation.
Finally, transportation planning is critical; it involves not only the development of new roadways but also the upgrading and maintaining of existing ones. Engaging with transportation planning and the perspective of environmental activists can provide insight into the challenges and needs for sustainable commuting infrastructure.