Silicon nanoscoops to combine Li-ion's energy with supercapacitor power, make your electric car go vroom

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Look, we don't know much about "science." We know it's a controversial
subject, and we always try to steer clear of that sort of hot-button-
issue stuff. Still, "science" can do some good in the world, you know,
now and then. Some "scientists" at the Rensselaer Polytechnic
Institute have happened upon a "strain-graded carbon-aluminum-silicon
nan oscoop anode" (whatever that means) that basically combines the
advantages of long-lasting Lithium-ion with a supercapacitor's rapid
fire oomph -- a common theme, but undoubtedly a noble one.
Specifically, Li-ion's superb (and ever-improving) Wh/kg and
supercapacitor's great W/kg. Now, don't ask us how -- again, "science"
-- but the upshot should be faster charging and better performing
electric cars, that can still manage a good amount of mileage.
Hopefully we get more spectacular exploding laptops as a side bonus.