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Last broadcast on Sun, 1 Feb 2009, 18:00 on BBC Two (except Wales, Wales (Analogue)) (see all broadcasts).
Synopsis
In this, the last of his Big Ideas programmes, James May tries to find smarter, brighter and bolder ways of powering the planet for future generations, and sets off on a global search to find people who share his dream. It takes him from Guildford, where he takes a solar powered car to its limit at night, to the US where he joins some aerospace engineers who are trying to build an 'elevator' into space.
In Holland, James meets the first Dutchman in space who has put away his rockets and has swapped them for kites as he tries to harvest the power of the jet-stream. And finally, in the deserts of New Mexico, he seeks out some modern-day alchemists, who offer the promise of allowing him to drive his car on petrol conjured out of thin air.
take it further:
Discover more about the ideas close to James' heart with the Open University.
the big ideas interactive challenge:
James invites you take part in a set of challenges to get him from A to B using any transport means possible. It could involve taking the bus or strapping on a jet pack - it's up to you to find the best solution.
Credits
- Presenter
- James May
- Producer
- Nigel Paterson
Broadcasts
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Sun 12 Oct 200821:00
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Thu 23 Oct 200819:00
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Sat 20 Dec 200801:30
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Wed 24 Dec 200801:30
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Sun 1 Feb 200918:00
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