Common Sense Media Review
By Melissa Camacho
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Aussie's gas-free travels make for fun, informative TV.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 8+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
Following Australian Shaun Murphy and his Jack Russell terrier Sparky as they travel 16,000 miles across the United States, COOLFUEL demonstrates that it's possible to do it without using a single drop of gasoline. The duo instead rely on a variety of vehicles that are specifically engineered to run on "coolfuels" (alternative energy sources) like corn, cow dung, and soybeans. Along the way, he meets people who've found ways of reducing their dependency on gasoline and are working toward a greener environment.
Is It Any Good?
Coolfuel is both amusing and educational as Murphy and his advance crew explore America's geographical and cultural landscape while explaining the various ways that alternative fuels are being harvested around the country. It's hard not to chuckle at some folks' reactions to Murphy's non-traditional way of traveling: Some of the team's vehicles -- which range from a donut-powered Hummer to a motorcycle powered by cow dung -- are a little odd-looking, too.
The series teaches lots of great lessons about energy and our environment. While Murphy's brief engineering explanations are simple enough for kids to follow, you don't have to be a science fan to enjoy the gang's antics. More importantly, Murphy teaches by example, showing that anyone with a little ingenuity can find ways to make alternative fuels work for them. Overall, the show offers a truly enjoyable way to learn more about ways to help the planet.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the media's role in educating people about issues like environmentalism and conservation. Where else can you learn about these issues?
Are alternative fuels being used to power things in your community? Which ones?
If you were to travel cross-country without gas, what kind
of vehicle would you like to use? What kind of expertise would you need
to build it?
TV Details
- Premiere date : September 8, 2009
- Cast : Shaun Murphy , Teresa Brett
- Network : Planet Green
- Genre : Reality TV
- Topics : STEM
- TV rating :
- Last updated : October 1, 2025
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