# High Voltage: Insights from Jim Motavalli’s Book

- Link: https://greenlivingguy.com/2011/11/high-voltage-insights-from-jim-motavallis-book/
- Published: 2011-11-09T16:37:26-05:00
- Author: greenlivingguy

## Fairfield Had A “High Voltage” Author Talk with Jim Motavalli

Jim Motavalli, author of _High Voltage: The Fast Track to Plug in the Auto Industry_,
recently visited the Fairfield Woods Branch Library and the Fairfield Public Library.
There, he engaged with local readers and shared insights from his groundbreaking
work on electric vehicles and their impact on the auto industry. During his visit,
he captivated the audience with stories about the rapid evolution of electric technology.
He also highlighted its potential to reshape our [environment and economy](https://greenlivingguy.com/2011/07/vote-on-lighting-efficiency-a-win-for-consumers-economy-environment/).
For those interested in staying updated on library events and literary discussions,
follow them on Twitter: [www.twitter.com/fairfieldpublib](https://mobile.twitter.com/fairfieldpublib)
and Facebook: [www.facebook.com/fairfieldlibrary](https://www.facebook.com/fairfieldlibrary).
They regularly post updates, resources, and highlights from various community programs.

Jim Motavalli was there for an author [talk and book](https://greenlivingguy.com/2010/11/do-it-yourself-home-energy-audits-we-need-to-talk-about-this-book/)
signing. He engaged directly with his audience and shared insights from his extensive
career in journalism and writing. Consequently, this was an event eagerly anticipated
by fans and enthusiasts alike. Many had followed his work for years and were keen
to delve deeper into the themes of his latest release.

![A high voltage power line tower against a cloudy sky showcasing electrical lines
and infrastructure](https://i0.wp.com/greenlivingguy.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/
11/324119_fae9a930.jpg?resize=640%2C360&quality=52&ssl=1 "324119_fae9a930 - The 
Green Living Guy")

A high voltage power line tower against a cloudy sky symbolizing the infrastructure
supporting electric vehicles discussed in Jim Motavallis talk

### What is the book High Voltage About?

_High Voltage_ takes a comprehensive behind-the-scenes look at the competitive race
to dominate the market for electric cars. It explores not only the technological
innovations but also the fierce rivalry [among major automotive companies](https://greenlivingguy.com/2020/05/evening-standard-reports-bt-unilever-ikea-and-dhl-among-company-vehicles-electric-by-2030/)
and startups striving for an edge. It delves into the environmental implications
and the potential [future of sustainable](https://greenlivingguy.com/2016/12/green-roof-planted-is-urban-garden-future/)
transportation. This ensures readers grasp the full significance of this transformative
industry shift.

For those interested, the book provides a wealth of information that essentially
paints a vivid picture of the rapidly evolving electric vehicle landscape. This 
landscape covers everything from the latest technological advancements to their 
impacts on environmental sustainability and urban planning. It also delves into 
the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in the industry. Additionally, it
offers insights from leading experts and innovators in the field. This comprehensive
exploration certainly details the innovations changing the way we think about transportation.
It also addresses the broader implications for society at large. This makes it a
must-read for anyone passionate about the [future of mobility](https://greenlivingguy.com/2012/01/toyotas-ns4-plug-in-hybrid-empowering-future-mobility/)
and eager to understand how electric vehicles will shape our cities. It explains
how they reduce carbon footprints and alter our daily lives in the coming years.

![Flat design infographic showing teslas participation in the does 2013 workplace
charging challenge featuring ev charging icons commuter symbols and bold text highlighting
key stats](https://i0.wp.com/greenlivingguy.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/235FB362-
9685-44FF-8B3C-CA79BE057296.png?resize=267%2C400&quality=50&ssl=1 "235FB362-9685-
44FF-8B3C-CA79BE057296 - The Green Living Guy")

In 2013 Tesla joined the US Department of Energys Workplace Charging Challenge to
expand EV charging access across Americas workplaceshelping drive a 10X increase
in infrastructure within five years

### Strategies for High Voltage Systems

In particular, it delves into the [strategies employed by leading companies](https://greenlivingguy.com/2014/02/water-companies-strategy-to-combat-scarcity-issues/)
and innovators in the field. Notably, it discusses how high voltage [systems are transforming vehicles](https://greenlivingguy.com/2015/01/hybrid-vehicle-system-enables-commercial-conversions/).
Furthermore, it explores the significant changes [transforming the auto industry](https://greenlivingguy.com/2008/12/proposal-prepay-for-plug-ins-to-save-transform-the-auto-industry/).

These changes, for instance, include:

 1. advancements in technology
 2. shifts in consumer preferences
 3. and also the [growing emphasis on sustainability](https://greenlivingguy.com/2022/03/benefits-of-growing-your-own-food/).

![A view of an electric vehicle workshop showcasing several modern cars including
a red blue and silver vehicle with two technicians walking through the facility 
High voltage](https://i0.wp.com/greenlivingguy.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/IMG_1515-
400x400.png?resize=400%2C400&ssl=1 "Chevy volt investment - The Green Living Guy")

Technicians inspecting electric vehicles in a modern automotive facility reflecting
advancements in the electric car industry

###  About

Motavalli writes extensively on environmental topics for _The New York Times_, where
his insightful articles spark conversations about [sustainability and conservation](https://greenlivingguy.com/2011/06/oregon-protects-shark-fins-with-new-legislation/).
He also contributes to NPR’s Car Talk. There, he offers listeners [practical advice on eco-friendly](https://greenlivingguy.com/2014/05/building-a-green-taiwan-embracing-eco-friendly-practices/)
transportation options, sharing his passion for green living. At NPR’s Car Talk,
he frequently discusses high voltage [innovations in electric vehicles](https://greenlivingguy.com/2025/08/ev-innovation-beyond-teslas-dominance/).
Through platforms like Mother Nature Network and Plugin Cars.com, he discusses the
latest innovations in electric vehicles. His work reflects a commitment to raising
awareness about urgent challenges. It focuses on [inspiring actionable change](https://greenlivingguy.com/2011/01/greent-how-mother-earth-inspires-change/)
in everyday lives.

Jim Motavalli is the author of three other books, including _Forward Drive: The 
[Race to Build “Clean” Cars](https://greenlivingguy.com/2022/04/jaguar-future-of-racing-exploring-gen3-race-cars/)
for the Future_. He also writes for E/the Environmental Magazine, hosts a radio 
program on WPKN-FM in Connecticut, and lectures widely on climate, transportation,
and population issues.

All programs at the Fairfield Public Library are free, which makes it a great resource
for the community. Whether you’re interested in literary events, educational workshops,
or fun activities for kids and families, there is truly something for everyone. 
Furthermore, the library encourages reading and learning with its numerous offerings.
These include author talks, book clubs, and technology classes. To learn more about
the available programs and events, please visit [www.fairfieldpubliclibrary.org](https://fairfieldpubliclibrary.org/).

**[Source: Patch.com and ET List / Yahoo Groups](https://web.archive.org/web/20180924195949/https://patch.com/connecticut/fairfield/calendar)**

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 greenlivingguy

 The Green Living Guy, Seth Leitman is an independent power producer, a green living
expert, and Editor of the McGraw-Hill, TAB Green Guru Guides. Seth is also an Author,
Radio Host, Reporter, Writer and an Environmental Consultant on green living. The
Green Living Guy writes about green living, green lighting, the green guru guides
and more. Seth's books range from: # Build Your Own Electric Vehicle by Bob Brant
and Seth Leitman (2nd and 3rd editions) # Build Your Own Plug-in Hybrid Electric
Vehicle by Seth Leitman # Build Your Own Electric Motorcycle by Carl Vogel # Green
Lighting by Seth Leitman, Brian Clark Howard and Bill Brinsky # Solar Power For 
Your Home by David Findley # Renewable Energies For Your Home by Russel Gehrke #
Do-it-Yourself Home Energy Audits by David Findley # Build Your Own Small Wind Power
System by Brian Clark Howard and Kevin Shea # and more green living books to follow.

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