Does Tesla's range reduction highlight the importance of today's hybrid vehicles?

Only 200 miles per charge?

Tesla has begun sending notices to the 400 or so customers that purchased the $100,000 Roadster, notifying them that their amazing electric sports car will only achieve 200 miles per charge, rather than 250 miles per charge advertised, according to the Silicon Valley Business Journal.

Nonetheless, I would STILL buy one if I could afford one.

Still, this points out the complexities of electric vehicles and plug-in hybrid vehicles. It also highlights the importance of today's hybrid vehicles. Electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids will happen, but kinks still need to be resolved. More than anything, these lithium-driven automobiles need more investment, and the best way to achieve that investment is hybrid cars.

Already, Toyota has stated that not only will the 2009 Third Generation Prius utilize lithium-ion batteries, but that all Toyota hybrids will utilize Li-ion batteries. That's hundreds of thousands of battery packs per year - not 400. That kind of investment will be great for Tesla and anyone else interested in all types of hybrids and electric vehicles.