Final answer:
Rechargeable batteries offer economic and environmental benefits but may lead to an increase in electrical demand during recharge hours. Solutions such as smaller batteries, more frequent charging stops, and night-time charging using solar input can help manage the demand. Dual-system cars like plug-in hybrids can be preferred for long-range driving, while the economic advantages of rechargeable batteries can outweigh the costs of battery decline and replacement.
Step-by-step explanation:
Rechargeable batteries, such as nickel-cadmium and lead-acid batteries, offer significant economic and environmental advantages as they can be recharged and used multiple times. However, the widespread use of rechargeable batteries can lead to an increase in electrical demand during popular recharge hours in residential areas. To cope with this, smaller batteries and more frequent charging stops can be implemented. For example, forklift-loaded pre-charged modules that can be interchanged among the fleet can be used for electric vehicles. Additionally, night-time charging can be done using solar input to alleviate the strain on the electrical grid.
As for long-range driving capability, it may be a challenge for some people to give it up entirely. In such cases, dual-system cars like plug-in hybrids, which have both electric and gas capability, can be preferred to maintain the option for occasional longer trips.
There might be concerns about the cost of battery decline and replacement. However, the economic advantages of rechargeable batteries, including lower manufacturing and disposal costs over the battery's lifetime, can offset these concerns.