Tesla Motors, maker of the all-electric $109,000 all-electric Roadster, plans to go public soon, two sources familiar with the matter told Reuters. Although hardly an affordable vehicle, the Tesla, being all-electric, is of interest to many because global warming has brought attention to green technology and battery-powered vehicles.

The National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing sought ways to lessen their environmental impact long before the economy faltered, and critics may scoff that a fuel-based spectator sport could yield benefits, but for NASCAR, the recession clouds may have many “green linings.”