Research was an integral towards designing the project. As a starting point, research of electric-powered car history was conducted. I sifted through the Electric Auto Association recorded history of the electric car. Understanding the past gives a context for the present and fuel for envisioning the future.  Research of blogs, magazines, websites gave me information on current events. In my interviews, I realized that EV language is not developed yet. I looked into D.I.Y. subculture and popular culture such as TV shows and grassroots racing.

A partnership with The CarLab, an automobile marketing firm, offered much data on the consumer tastes. Interviews with 35yr. veteran product planner, Rex Parker offered many insights on what the consumer wants and what is missing. Interviews with enthusiasts and car designers gave me an idea what is the ideal aesthetic for the future green sports car. Looking at what car companies are offering and what they are missing gives ammunition towards designing the culture. Lastly, a look at technology to help determine what is potentially adaptable towards the new culture. There was a visit to research small community of the Electric Vehicle Association of Southern California. All of the observations, interviews and data gathering inspired the feature articles in ELECTRON.