OK, so there seems to still be a wee bit of confusion when it comes to some terms, such as hybrid, HEV, plug-in hybrid, PHEV, etc. It’s so simple, just click here. But in the meantime, let’s look at who is working on embracing PHEVs.
The gist, companies turning regular HEVs into super efficient PHEVs have their hands full, or should we say their garages, according to WRAL.
The numbers, how about dropping that Prius of yours for, say around 4 hours and getting it back with an average of 100 mpg or more? With a second set of battery pack, it gives the newly converted PHEV Prius around 35 miles on electric power alone and allows you to use that gasoline engine whenever you need for longer commutes. Now that makes sense.
Who is doing it? Strangely enough, Advanced Vehicle Research Center in North Carolina mostly sees corporate customers converting their fleets to PHEVs. But anyone with a Prius and $10,400 can get it converted to a PHEV.
Where does Toyota stand? Not surprising, Toyota does not authorize, nor endorse conversions. The reason could be that it has its own Prius PHEV version, due to be out by 2010. However, many people don’t want to wait that long and turn to specialized companies.
Facts. 150 PHEVs are on the road today, according James Poch, from the Plug-In Hybrid Coalition of the Carolina in Mount Pleasant, S.C.
Interesting article and again it shows there is still a lag between driver’s expectations and what manufacturers can currently produce. One thing we will keep an eye on are rumors that the state of California might move to outlaw PHEV conversions out of the state. To be continued…
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