Topic: Riker Electric

The early 20th century featured a variety of viable transportation technologies, including Riker electric vehicles and Stanley Steamers, which were marginalized by the oil monopoly. Price explains that asphalt roads were chosen specifically because they are a petroleum byproduct that requires constant maintenance, creating an "evergreen clause" for the industry. He also claims that refineries could easily convert gasoline to methanol to increase efficiency but refuse to do so to maintain high consumption levels.