Report: Plug-ins would increase CO2 emissions in England

It all keeps coming up dirty coal

Are plug-in hybrids the key to global warming?

Absolutely not if coal is the source of plug-in electricity.

However, could coal-powered plug-in hybrids help reduce CO2 emissions as other clean technologies are added as power-generation sources?

That largely depends upon where one lives and a number of the factors, including whom you ask.

However, according to the UK's Environmental Transport Association, plug-in vehicles in England could actually "speed climate change" if coal is not replaced with alternative energy sources.

US House Committee hoping to advance electric drivetrains

US House Committee on Science and Technology advances two important energy bills

The two bills offer research funding for V2G technology, batteries, ultracapacitors and much more that could help advance hybrid cars, plug-in hybrids, electric vehicles and fuel cell hybrid vehicles. (more)

Cayenne Hybrid: A step in the right direction for Porsche

Hybrids+ might be Porsche's only way forward, such as this Porsche Cayenne hybrid

So, Greenpeace doesn't like Porsche, even if they do convert some of their vehicles into hybrid vehicles, such as the Cayenne hybrid. Who cares? Greenpeace doesn't believe that hybrids are a solution to global warming either. Apparently, the world's transportation economy is just supposed to stop.

I prefer to deal with realism. Finish: Cayenne Hybrid: A step in the right direction for Porsche

Toyota's odd plug-in tests are official

Toyota will test plug-ins

Toyota has confirmed that it will test plug-in hybrids. Oddly, however, the Toyota Plug-in HV will be tested using NiMH batteries, rather than lithium-ion batteries. According to Toyota, the Toyota Plug-in HV, based upon the Prius, will only achieve about 8 miles of pure electric power.

So, what's going on? Does a NiMH-powered plug-in hybrid demonstrate that there are problems with Toyota's lithium batteries? Obviously, a lithium-powered plug-in hybrid would offer better performance than a NiMH-powered plug-in. Of course, lithium also would cost more, and there are still safety issues.

Is this just more proof that Toyota's third generation Prius will not be lithium powered? Might the third generation Prius include a plug-in option - still using NiMH batteries - as a way of advancing the Hybrid Synergy Drive without utilizing lithium?

Google offers $10 million to plug-in hybrid developers

In addition to $1,000,000 in grants already

Google will develop an RFPs "to fund development, adoption and commercialization of plug-ins, fully electric cars and related vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology."

Google also set up a partnership with A123Systems to convert a number of hybrid cars into plug-in hybrid vehicles as a test fleet.

Read the full press release in comments

First Look: Ford's hydrogen electric plug-in hybrid vehicle

Ford used the Airstream Concept to display the HySeries Drive, a hydrogen electric plug-in hybrid vehicle fuel cell drivetrain. Instead of being powered by hydrogen fuel, hydrogen would instead by converted to electricity and electricity would power the Airstream and other future HySeries vehicles at all times. Consequently, the Airstream hydrogen hybrid could run solely on electric power obtained from a standard electric plug for short trips - up to 20 to 40 miles. Nonetheless, the vehicle would still require occasional fill-ups of hydrogen, so such a vehicle might not be very consumer friendly until the hydrogen highway is developed.

Foreign oil dependency: Security versus profits

So, we know that America's current electric grid could handle the power demands of converting conventional automobiles into plug-in hybrid vehicles. We know that such a move would reduce pollution. We know that using advanced carbon-fibers could produce 50 percent lighter vehicles that are stronger than today's vehicles. We know that adding plug-in hybrid technology to such vehicles would produce super strong, super fuel efficient automobiles capable of ending foreign oil dependency and drastically reducing all forms of pollution.

The only thing we don't know is, are such vehicles profitable to automakers? While it is a sad commentary on society that health and security are bean-counted against profitability, that is today's reality.

Still, wouldn't funding an automotive revolution via advanced technology be a worthy investment for government via less military protection of oil, for automakers via retooling their entire operations in state of the art technology geared for the future, and for consumers via increased fuel savings and security?

Why not spawn the next great revolution in human history?

Worsening traffic congestion underscores need for hybrid technology

According to a very interesting article in BusinessWeek, traffic congestion has increased significantly every year since 1982, and within 10 years the problem is going to increase drastically, even in areas with only medium congestion.

What are the costs? "In 2003, the wasted time and fuel due to congestion cost the U.S. population $63.1 billion. This translates to nearly $800 per traveler and 2.3 billion gallons of fuel!" Unfortunately, the BW article also points out the lack of any easy solutions to this worsening problem. One can only imagine how many billions of gallons we will be wasting by 2010 - scary!

Greater congestion is simply the future, which underscores the need for hybrid technology. When it comes to real world fuel economy, automobiles perform horribly in congestion, yet hybrid cars offer significant improvements in these conditions. More important the potential of hybrids in these conditions is just emerging. Plug-in hybrids could largely function gasoline-free in such conditions.

Isn't it time to really start thinking about the future?

Toyota will offer plug-in hybrids as soon as technology is ready

Toyota is hearing the voice of Americans when it comes to plug-in hybrid vehicles, Jim Press, President of Toyota North America told the Inside Line. However, just as GM has indicated, plug-in technology just isn't quite ready for prime time. "We are hearing the voice of the customer, and we want [plug-ins] as much as anyone else," Press said. "It is not a lack of desire; it is a lack of science. We don't want to come out with a technology prematurely that might not succeed." So, if you are interested in plug-in hybrid technology, buy one of today's hybrids - its the best way to invest in tomorrow's hybrid technology.

Nissan VP calls hybrids "unprofitable"

"Hybrids today are not a very viable economic proposition. It's still a loss-making proposition and we'll see," said Dominique Thormann, Nissan North America's senior vice president for administration and finance. "People don't want to pay more for a hybrid. They get a tax credit for it but they don't want to pay the price for the cost of the hybrid," he said.

Of course, what else can anyone from Nissan claim? Imagine the V.P. claiming "Hybrids are profitable, which is why we don't offer any." Of course Nissan will soon offer the Altima hybrid, but they had to borrow technology from Toyota to do so.

On the other hand, Thormann also stated that half the cars sold in America are sold by companies losing money, so it isn't just about hybrid vehicles . Such a statement speaks to the larger issue facing the auto industry: The vehicles that are profitable simply aren't healthy for America or the world in terms of global warming and foreign oil dependency.

Yet, as more and more hybrid supplies are produced, those parts will become cheaper, as will hybrid vehicles. If hybrid vehicles can evolve into plug-in hybrids achieving 100+ mpg fuel economy - including a significant reduction in fueling costs - then hybrids could become cost-effective for consumers and profitable for automakers.

Of course, only some automakers have that vision.

Commerical viability of plug-in hybrids to be tested in 3 year study

Argonne National Laboratory and the Electric Power Research Institute will conduct a three year research project to determine the commercial feasibility of plug-in hybrid vehicles for the U.S. Department of Energy.

"The objective of the multi-year research project is to provide a balanced and authoritative study of both the advantages of and the challenges to the design and commercial production of PHEVs. An assessment of potential social benefits of PHEVs, including reductions in imported petroleum-based fuels, enhancement of American energy security and air quality improvement will be key components of the study." (more)

Are Democrats AGAINST the hybrid vehicle revolution?

In a bid to support geothermal power, Harry Reid today accused the Bush Administration of being "so oil-friendly that we have been able to get their attention on virtually nothing that is not oil related," Reid said. "They’re not that interested in renewables."

Hmmm??? While Democrats are looking to bail out the fuel inefficient Big 3, Bush did have the courage to tell Detroit to produce 'relevant' vehicles. Bush has also, on numerous occasions promoted hybrid vehicles and lithium ion battery development. In fact, Bush even went so far as to say that hybrid vehicles were the best way to change consumer behavior.

Is that the definition of "lack of interest"? Maybe, for a politician.

Moreover, Bush asked Congress to extend tax credits for hybrid cars, something which Congress chose not to do. Yet, now that Democrats have taken over Congress I've heard very little about hybrid vehicles and even less about tax credits for hybrid cars.

Instead, the whole Democratic platform now seems fixated on E85.

Even worse Democratic ranking members of Congress have already voiced their disinterest in raising fuel economy standards in the U.S. because they don't want to sacrifice jobs - Democrat supporting UAW jobs - for increased fuel efficiency. Quite a different tune the Democrats are singing now compared to just a couple of years ago when Democrats blamed Republicans for not raising fuel economy standards, even though key Democrats joined Republicans on that vote.

Can we stop playing politics, for at least one year?

I really wish Reid and some other Democrats would quit the partisanship. Didn't America vote for change? Well, let's start changing, please? Let's take the high road, Democrats. Lead by example.

Obviously, the Democratic Party wants to do as much as possible to tarnish the President in an effort to claim the White House. However, if they don't focus on doing something these next two years just to try to win the White House, they might just catapult Republicans back into power.

For years Democrats have done a lot of talking about what should be done, what Republicans didn't do, and they were right, the Republican Party failed the people and America.

Still, now its time for Democrats to stop talking and to start acting. When it comes to foreign oil dependency and national security, even global warming, nothing matters more than fuel efficiency.

Ultimately, the benefits provided by E85 are not going to amount to much if our energy consumption keeps going up. Democrats and the rest of Congress must focus on fuel efficiency. If they are not going to mandate tough standards, then help Detroit develop fuel efficient technologies, particularly hybrids and plug-in hybrids, and give consumers tax incentives to buy these global warming and foreign oil dependency fighters.

Even oil man Bush understood that issue.

Let's hope Democrats and the rest of Congress can finally start helping America instead of just blaming each other for what is wrong with America.

Plug-in hybrid technology being tested

Valence Technology has partnered with EnergyCS to produce a plug-in Prius hybrid for the city of Sacramento to test for fleet viability. Likewise, Canada's Manitoba Hydro is also testing plug-in hybrid vehicles and their impact on the electric grid.

While it is great these developments are occurring, it seems plug-in hybrid technology is still a couple of years away from reality, and I hope that fact doesn't stymie hybrid investment.

The technology powering plug-ins, particularly lithium-ion batteries, will rapidly evolve in the next decade. A fleet of plug-in hybrids might not be cost-effective for cities such as Sacramento in the short term. Nonetheless, current hybrid vehicles certainly are cost effective today for Sacramento, and their purchase helps invest in the future of plug-in hybrids, which will definitely be cost effective in the future.

Lithium hybrid revolution 3 to 4 years away?

While you can't buy a plug-in hybrid vehicle today from any of the major auto manufacturers, you could buy a Toyota Prius and have that hybrid vehicle converted into a plug-in hybrid vehicle, but why would you do that?

Full hybrid vehicles, such as the Prius or the Ford Escape hybrid, have the ability to run completely on electric power, as well as the ability to generate electric power. In current hybrid technology this typically happens at lower speeds such as in stop-and-go or slow-and-go traffic, and this feature is one of the primary reasons hybrids are so fuel efficient.

Nonetheless, current hybrids have a limited ability to store energy because NiMH batteries in hybrids only have so much capacitiy.

Lithium ion batteries, on the other hand, enable a hybrid to extend this storage capacity, however, simply driving the hybrid probably won't generate enough electricity via regenerative breaking, etc to fill the batteries to full capactity.

Thus, why not plug the hybrid into an outlet and top the batteries off? Doing so with today's plug-in prototypes enables these hybrids to travel up to 40 miles on electric power alone, a distance greater than the average American commute.

This is the potential of lithium ion battery powered hybrid vehicles, and this is what has GM preparing to show off a prototype plug-in hybrid vehicle in early 2007 - probably at the North American International Auto Show. Still, according to GM's Bob Lutz, the real potential of a plug-in hybrid vehicle is still about 3 to 4 years away.

Lutz told The Detroit News that GM estimates it will take three to four years "to convert from 'power' lithium batteries to 'energy storage' lithium cells," which would allow vehicles to travel farther distances.

Imagine the ability to travel 100 miles on electric power alone with technology which will probably be available in just 3 to 4 years. Imagine the effect such vehicles would have on foreign oil dependency. Imagine adding a a few solar panels or a small wind turbine to your garage and powering your plug-in hybrid with completely green electricity.

So why just imagine it? Why not make this a reality?

Buying today's hybrid cars helps invest in this future. Additionally, we must put pressure on Congress to offer more incentives to both automakers and consumers for developing and buying these types of vehicles. In the long run, these investments in the future will more than pay for themselves.

GM's i-Car plug-in hybrid probably to debut at NAIAS

While unconfirmed, GM's prototype plug-in hybrid vehicle will probably be unveiled a the North American International Auto Show, although CEO Rick Wagoner might also cover the vehicle at a speech he'll be giving later this month at the Los Angeles Auto Show.

GM already toning down its i-Car campaign?

About two weeks ago I made a post about GM's i-Car, a car many believe will be some type of plug-in hybrid vehicle. According to unconfirmed sources at that time, the i-Car campaign would be launched some time before the end of the year as a challenge to Toyota and its hybrid cars. Then, earlier this week, Bob Lutz told the AutomotiveNews that the future was all electric vehicles powered by fuel cells. In the interim, Mr. Lutz claimed a plug-in hybrid would probably be the best solution, and the reality of the i-Car campaign seemed, well, real.

Suddenly, it seemed GM was preparing to completely reinvent itself. Finally, I thought, finally.

Perhaps, I got a little too excited a little too quickly.

While the LA Times is reporting that GM is going to launch an electric vehicle prototype next year, there are already questions about how serious GM actually is about the i-Car program, at least in the short term. Maybe, now that Democrats have control of Congress, GM believes it can rest on E85 and flex-fuel vehicles for several years rather than actually doing something great.

Democrats appear ready to focus on alternative fuels as answer to foreign oil dependency

As I stated earlier today, when it comes to foreign oil dependency, don't expect any real change from Democrats. Rep. John Dingell, whom will become chairmen of House Energy and Commerce Committee in January, has been a strong proponent against increased CAFE standards and he appears to see E85 and alternative fuels as the main solution to foreign oil dependency. (more)

Hopefully, Democrats will extend a few crumbs towards hybrid cars and plug-in hybrid cars, but that might offend the UAW too much, so don't expect any new tax credits for hybrids.

This is the big change America voted for? Excuse me for not being overly excited. When push comes to shove, politicians are just politicians and Democrats aren't really much better than Republicans.

It all comes down to the people. Politicians don't lead revolutions, people do, and voting for Democrats is no revolution.

Some interesting quotes

"In recent years, attempts to increase fuel economy standards have been met with broad bipartisan opposition and we're hopeful that that opposition continues," said Charles Territo, a spokesman for the Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers.

"Energy policy and fuel economy standards for the past 20 years have been a bipartisan failure," said David Friedman, research director for the Union of Concerned Scientists' Clean Vehicles Program. "The next year will tell us a lot about how serious people are."

Stop the Madness: Hybrid Vehicles Not E85!!!!!!!

Last year ethanol producers received subsidies and tax incentives worth more than $5 billion dollars, and those subsidies will probably be much higher next year. Yet, even with those subsidies ethanol isn't cost effective unless gas prices are close to $3.00 per gallon.

So, is ethanol worth the price?

Supporters of ethanol claim that all this investment in ethanol for automobiles will eventually lead to better ways of producing ethanol, such as cellulosic ethanol.

I say it will simply lead to more flex-fuel Hummers and little decrease in foreign oil dependency. I say E85 is a feel-good way of accomplishing nothing, something both Democrats and Republicans love - talk, talk, talk, but do nothing.

Without raising the fuel efficiency of America's automobiles - significantly - America's demand for energy will continue to grow exponentially and it will outpace any reduction in foreign oil dependency produced by ethanol.

More important, even GM is now realizing the that the future of automobiles is probably electric. If this is true, then E85 simply becomes a distraction, even a boondoggle to those ends, at least for American automakers and the American economy.

Today, hybrid cars can increase fuel efficiency by 20 to 30 percent, which is a good start. Add advanced gasoline engines or clean diesel engines and fuel efficiency could be doubled - that's with just TODAY's technology.

But the real advantage of hybrids will be lithium batteries, and the ability to utilize electric power. Within 5 years it is quite possible that you could buy a $30,000 hybrid vehicle that might never have to be filled with fuel if you drive less than 40 miles per day, all it would need is a small electric charge at night.

Within 10 years a small fuel cell stack could be added to these plug-in hybrids and the majority of drivers might never need any other fuel than just a little occasional electricity. More important, all of this could happen much quicker if more incentives were provided for hybrid technology and lithium-ion technology.

Why not give those ethanol subsidies to consumers to purchase these vehicles? Ultimately, a change in consumer behavior is the quickest path to foreign oil dependence and a cleaner environment.

Yet, ethanol is the favored buzzword, the favored recipient of tax incentives and government subsidies.

In the past Honda has already claimed it believes electric cars are integral to the future, and Toyota's hybrid efforts make them a player in electric cars as well. Even GM says the future is electric. Consequently, it is imperative that American automakers lead the way into this automotive revolution, rather than sticking to flex-fuel Hummers and Mustangs.

America's focus should be that in 10 years every American vehicle produced is either fuel-free or that fuel is simply a backup. The technology will be there within 10 years. The Japanese will be there. Will America?

Still, I'm all for ethanol, cellulosic ethanol, as a fuel to produce electricity, just not as an automobile fuel. Ultimately, transporting ethanol simply makes no sense in a liquid form, but in an electric form it makes great sense.

Consequently, E85 could become a distraction, even a boondoggle if it takes the clean energy and foreign oil dependency spotlight, and early talk from many Democrats seems headed in that direction.

The future is now. If we don't dare to dream, we just might wake up to a nightmare. New automotive technology, not alternative fuels, should be the priority for America, and the majority of our tax incentives and subsidies should be given to consumers to buy this new technology.

GM set to go hybrid, then all electric?

So, GM is canceling their hydrogen fuel cell program? Well, not exactly, but it appears GM is finally beginning to understand that the world doesn't have to wait for hydrogen fuel cells before getting serious about fuel economy and pollution.

"What started as a fuel cell project is now an electric vehicle project," GM's Bob Lutz told the Automotive News recently.

"A series hybrid could run primarily on electricity from lithium-ion batteries, with an engine as backup to replenish batteries, Lutz says. The backup engine could be a diesel or gasoline internal combustion engine. Backup energy also could come from a fuel cell."

Of course, Toyota has claimed this same idea for a number of years, although their approach is a bit different. Even fuel cell makers have been calling for plug-in hybrid vehicles because they make a smaller, cheaper fuel cell stack much more cost effective to add to a vehicle.

Still, the costs of the batteries, fuel cell stacks, etc for either an all-electric fuel cell vehicle, or a plug-in hybrid fuel cell vehicle, will probably be very high for several years and maybe even a decade or longer. Which is why current hybrid technology is so important.

If not for current hybrids, GM wouldn't even be having this conversation. If not for current hybrids, plug-in hybrids wouldn't even be a buzzword in the auto industry. If not for current hybrids, there wouldn't be enough upside to develop lithium-ion batteries for automobiles.

Today's hybrid vehicles, with today's hybrid technology, are an investment in lithium ion batteries and in fuel cells, in addition to being a way to begin to reduce foreign oil dependency and global warming emissions. With today's hybrid vehicles we can begin changing the world TODAY.

It's about time GM has gotten with the program. Let's just hope this revelation isn't just hot air! America, the world, needs GM to do the right thing now more than ever.

Foreign oil dependency makes America stronger!

Do you think foreign oil dependency makes America stronger? In today's world, isn't that a stupid question?

Yet, it seems many Americans either believe that cheap foreign oil is good for America or that it poses little threat to America's National Security. Otherwise, how can the continued purchasing of gas-guzzlers be justified? How can the lack of hybrid vehicles from 2 out of 3 of Detroit's automakers be explained?

I often criticize GM for its lack of leadership in fighting foreign oil dependency. Does my criticism stem from my perpetual hate of anything GM? Absolutely not. It stems from the immense power GM has to take a leadership role in fighting oil dependency coupled with GM's refusal to do so.

Ultimately, I would gladly buy a GM hybrid vehicle - as long as it was a full hybrid vehicle. Unfortunately, GM just doesn't have any full hybrid vehicles available yet.

Why?

Well, just a few years ago important GM executives, such as Bob Lutz, publicly ridiculed hybrid vehicles and those automakers investing in them, which is particularly offensive since billions of taxpayer dollars were given to Detroit to develop similar vehicles back in the 90s.

Sure, GM has been claiming the future will be fuel cell vehicles, but they've been saying this for decades and they might be saying it a few more decades before it is a reality. Still, everything that can be done to fight oil dependency today, needs to be done today.

Quite simply, today, the hybrid vehicle is the best course of action in the war on oil dependency. The hybrid powertrain by itself is already efficient and will become even far more efficient. More important, however, the hybrid powertrain enables the integration of clean diesel, flex-fuel, electricity, hydrogen and fuel cells into the same powertrain.

Today's technology, such as a clean diesel hybrid, could produce vehicles that are 50 percent more efficient than today's vehicles. What are we waiting for? Too expensive? No way! There are enough subsidies already being wasted on big oil and other pork barrel legislation to provide the tax incentives needed for consumers to make clean diesel hybrids cost effective.

But, clean diesel hybrids are just one slice of the potential hybrid pie. In areas where ethanol makes sense, flex-fuel hybrids could be built. Add plug-in technology to both diesel hybrids and flex-fuel hybrids and you might only have to fill up on trips greater than 40 miles.

Imagine only filling your vehicle up a couple of times per year.

In the Southwest, such plug-in hybrids could make solar power far more cost-effective, enabling homeowners the ability to power their homes and their automobiles. Imagine never paying an electricity bill nor to fuel your automobiles. How's that for fighting global warming?

Of course these vehicles could also eventually develop into hydrogen powered hybrid vehicles, or fuel cell hybrid vehicles, but foreign oil dependency could be ended without either of these innovations. We don't have to wait for the holy grail, fuel cells. We just have to start demanding action right now.

To be fair, it's not as if GM is evil and Toyota is a saint. Neither automaker is doing enough. Nonetheless, considering the trends of the last few decades, such as previous oil embargoes, Katrina, global warming, and 9/11 isn't it finally time to say enough is enough?

And I say, it's especially time for GM, the most important automaker in America and one of the most important American companies, not to just act, but to take the lead. GM has the kind of loyal following to buy these war-effort vehicles and the political power to force the government to assist with subsidies and tax incentives for these war-effort vehicles.

Instead of using that billion dollar GM marketing budget to market gas-guzzlers, market the fight against the war on foreign oil dependency and global warming. It's our GM hybrid vehicle, it's our national security.

I don't think there is a company that could do more for America than GM if GM began to look at foreign oil dependency and global warming as a war, a war that GM was leading the battle against at ALL costs - even bankruptcy. That is simply a battle that GM would not and could not lose today.

Bob Lutz has admitted that GM could have taken a FRACTION of their YEARLY marketing budget to develop a hybrid to rival the Toyota Prius. Yet, they willfully continue to chose to spend that money marketing gas-guzzling - even AFTER 9/11. Stop!

Before 9/11 most Americans had their heads buried in the sand regarding the consequences of America's addiction to oil. Sometimes when something is so good, it's just better not to ask questions. After 9/11, however, there is no excuse not to act. Now America needs GM to do the right thing more than ever.

If 9/11, Katrina, Iraq and all the threats about global warming are not enough to get America to realize it is time to change, what will it take? Would the deaths of 10,000 or 100,000 citizens be enough? Do we need a third world war, or the loss of a major city, such as New York? Would that finally be enough?

Then again foreign oil dependency has nothing to do with 9/11, Iraq or global warming, right? Foreign oil dependency makes America stronger!

Silverado hybrid wins SEMA Award

I had to laugh when I read the press release from SEMA, the Specialty Equipment Market Association, regarding the award the Chevy Silverado Hybrid won at the 2006 show.

"The Chevrolet Silverado Classic Hybrid -- the first full-size production pickup to utilize hybrid technology -- is also the first hybrid to be recognized as the most accessory friendly vehicle at the 2006 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, capturing one of four SEMA Vehicle Design Awards and becoming the benchmark in SEMA's newest design award category." (more)

"First hybrid....", please.

Quite frankly, calling the Silverado a hybrid is offensive to those whom truly support hybrid technology. If the Saturn Vue hybrid is a "a maximally minimal venture in hybrid powertrain technology that would seem less about fuel economy and more about securing coveted hybrid badges on the doors," then the Silverado hybrid is a maximally inept hybrid vehicle.

Sorry GM fans. Until GM offers a full hybrid vehicle, GM is on my #8@* list regarding hybrids. Hopefully, GM will exceed my expectations when they announce plans for the i-Car plug-in hybrid.

For now, however, GM simply doesn't offer any hybrid vehicles in my eyes.

Over $5 billion in 2006 to subsidize ethanol as hybrid tax credits run out

"A recent study conducted by the Swiss-based group called Global Subsidies Initiative revealed the total cost of the tax breaks and subsidies that go into U.S. production of ethanol to be in the whopping range of $5.1 to $6.8 billion for 2006." (more)

While I'd rather use my tax dollars to subsidize American industries, such as ethanol producers, rather than foreign oil companies, I'd rather subsidize hybrid cars and other clean vehicle technologies more than ethanol. Give GM and Ford $5 billion per year to perfect hybrid cars, plug-in hybrid vehicles, fuel cell hybrid vehicles and electric vehicles.

If lighter materials and smarter automobile designs were coupled with next generation batteries, fuel cells and hybrid technology, the U.S. could easily end foreign oil dependency. Sure it would be expensive, but not too expensive if we simply made better use of current tax subsidies - Not by adding new ones.

GM's I-car Campaign set to challenge Toyota on hybrid vehicles?

According to unofficial sources cited by the Detroit News, GM is ramping up to challenge Toyota's lead in hybrid vehicles. So, are they serious?

Last year, Toyota sold more than 235,000 hybrid vehicles. GM, on the other hand, has yet to sell one single full hybrid. Sure GM offers a few mild hybrids, but mild hybrids are not going to challenge Toyota's hybrid vehicle sales lead.

Still, GM might have a secret weapon, the I-car.

The I-car isn't just a hybrid vehicle, but a plug-in hybrid vehicle. If Toyota were to develop a cost-competitive plug-in hybrid vehicle before Toyota, I think it could be a game changer. While some hybrid critics have argued that plug-in hybrids are even more of a niche product than current hybrids, poll after poll has demonstrated that Americans are very intrigued by plug-in hybrid technology.

Still, it won't be easy. Toyota hasn't been particularly bullish regarding plug-in hybrids thus far because of costs and battery issues. So, does GM have a secret weapon? Is their past experience with electric vehicles going to finally pay off? Is GM demonstrating even more vision than Toyota regarding the potential of hybrids?

Simply building plug-ins won't be enough, however. If current hybrids are too expensive for most consumers, imagine adding $6000.00 to the price tag. Americans aren't going to buy. Sure, the technology will probably pay for itself over the life of the vehicle, but that isn't the way American consumers think.

Consequently, the success of the I-car program will come down to cost. Can GM convince the Feds to not only offer tax incentives for hybrid technology, but also extra incentives for plug-in technology? Obviously, the government is probably much more interested in adding new incentives that could help an American automaker, unlike the government's lack of interest in helping Toyota hybrid buyers.

Such incentives might make a plug-in hybrid cost-effective, especially an American-made plug-in hybrid. Many Americans want to do something about foreign oil dependency, but many Americans refuse to buy a hybrid from Toyota or Honda. Unlike Toyota and Honda, GM has real power to really rally this customer segment around not only supporting GM and American workers, but fighting foreign oil dependency, pollution and global warming.

Can GM play this hand correctly, or will they just fold amidst a temporary drop in gasoline prices?

Even better than GM going green, are the choices that would open up to American consumers interested in green options. A hybrid battle between GM and Toyota would force every automaker to get very serious about clean technologies, and this competition for green supremacy would make hybrid technology not only better, but cheaper.

Before the end of this year, GM is supposed to announce this new strategy. Let's hope GM isn't just serious, but ready to launch this program as soon as possible. This could change everything for GM, and for America.

Make me a believer, GM, make me a believer!

Another reason alternative fuels are not enough? Go hybrid!

"Our whole farming system really contributes a lot to global warming, and it could be made to be much more sustainable," claims Francis Thicke, an organic dairy farmer from Fairfield, Iowa, who has a Ph.D. in soil fertility.

Thick also believes subsidies for farmers to grow corn and soybeans should end because of their global warming contribution. (more)

On the other hand, synergistic technologies, such as lithium batteries, fuel cells, and hybrid vehicles will soon create autos that might need very little fuel, regardless of whether it is oil, ethanol or hydrogen. By the end of the decade, new hybrid technology combined with next generation lithium batteries might easily achieve more than 70 mpg. Plug-in technology could be added to these hybrid vehicles and most urban drivers might rarely, if ever, need any fuel other than a little electricity. Additionally, adding small fuel cells might make such hybrids even more efficient, requiring even less fuel or electricity.

Sure it would be nice to fill these next generation hybrids with ethanol instead of gasoline, but the focus should be on as little fuel as possible. In fact, whether ethanol is every viable in America shouldn't even be a primary concern for Detroit's automakers. Making the most efficient vehicles possible, should be their only concern.

Go hybrid, Detroit, go hybrid.

Forget plug-in hybrid vehicles - For Now

Never put off until tomorrow what you can do today. That's the sentiment that plug-in hybrid vehicles are beginning to cause me.

Over the weekend, as I was catching up on some news I read two hybrid stories. The first by Green Car Congress discussed Hymotion, a hybrid to plug-in hybrid conversion company, and their plans to add solar panels to their conversion process. Now this is an idea I completely support and I totally support Hymotion.

So, why am I beginning to have plug-in angst? (Full Story)

A giant bug for the hydrogen economy?

I used to believe absolutely in the hydrogen economy. I wanted it to happen as fast as possible. As a result I've read a lot regarding fuel cells, hydrogen storage, etc. Suddenly, I began to realize that the hydrogen economy probably wasn't going to come as quickly as I'd hoped.

More distressing, I read statements by some scientists whom claimed that the vapor exhaust from billions of fuel cell vehicles might have unintended, negative consequences. Not long ago, for example, CO2 emissions were deemed just as harmless.

Still, it seems hard to believe that H20 vapor emitted from fuel cell vehicles could cause any problems, right?

Well, according to a new study, if the percentage of oxygen in our atmosphere increased, so to might the size of many bugs, such as hawk-sized dragon-flies. What if this also means hawk-sized locusts, or parrot-sized mosquitoes? How would that affect crops and disease?

Perhaps there are many other downsides to increasing hydrogen and oxygen emissions into our atmosphere.

Maybe this time around we shouldn't allow huge corporations and their cronies in Washington to bet the farm on hydrogen as they once bet the farm on petroleum. The welfare of the people, not just corporate profit, has to be a major consideration.

Maybe a solar hybrid fuel cell vehicle is a better goal than a hydrogen powered fuel cell vehicle.

An interesting week for hybrid cars

It was an interesting week for hybrid cars. It started with Peugeot's C-Matisse diesel hybrid vehicle. While only a concept vehicle, this hybrid demonstrates that Peugeot is preparing for the hybrid revolution. By 2010, when I predict the hybrid revolution will really getting rolling, Peugeot will be ready.

Then there was an Intellichoice award for the Mariner hybrid, the debut of the 2008 Mariner hybrid, and the debut of the 2007 Nissan Altima hybrid. Plus a number of other hybrid stories which you can review by scrolling down on this blog.

Still, my favorite piece of hybrid news this week was the Astrolab solar hybrid vehicle. This is going to be a production vehicle, not a concept car. While solar hybrids are a long way away from the mainstream, this vehicle demonstrates that the potential of hybrid technology is only just emerging. Shucks, throw in a small fuel cell and the 'hydrogen highway' might not even be needed.

Today's hybrid cars are just the beginning.

Russia puts Western oil 'supplies at risk'? Join the hybrid revolution.

"A former government adviser has warned it is "only a matter of time" before BP or Shell faces a bid from a Russian state-owned group such as Gazprom which could threaten western oil supplies. Professor Peter Odell, an energy economist, says ExxonMobil is also vulnerable to a Chinese takeover as the large UK and American stock-listed oil groups lose their influence in global markets." (more)

If it isn't OPEC seeking a bottom cap of $55.00 per barrel, it's China and Russia and state-owned oil companies threatening the price of gasoline.

Fortunately, Congress has passed tax incentives for hybrids that protect GM and Ford, rather than incentives that seek to achieve change as quickly as possible. Unfortunately, protectionism isn't what GM needs, it needs a good kick in the ass. GM's biggest problem these days, apparently, is a lack of Hummers according to Bob Lutz, not tax incentives for hybrids.

Hummers are far more important than foreign oil dependency.

Besides, what would ending foreign oil dependency accomplish anyway? A less complicated Middle East? Putting an important part of the American economy back in the hands of Americans?

Obviously, achieving oil dependency wouldn't be easy, it would require the kind of technological revolution which would create new jobs, new industries and new markets. What a waste!

The technology behind hybrid cars offers such a revolution. Hybrid technology can make any vehicle 20 - 30 percent more fuel efficient, today, whether that vehicle is fueled by gasoline, diesel, ethanol or even hydrogen. New software and new batteries will double the fuel efficiency of today's hybrids in just a few years. Then plug-in hybrids could also increase hybrid performance while creating an ideal platform for the introduction of small fuel cells into the automobile.

Unfortunately, hybrid production doesn't result in the huge profit margins many automakers covet - hybrid vehicles only make the world a better place. And Hummers, it seems, are much cooler than making a better world.

Gasoline and oil costs might drop in the short term, but the long term is filled with too many risks not to act as quickly as possible.

Astrolab: First solar hybrid available for sale

For EUR92,000 you can purchase an Astrolab solar electric hybrid vehicle according to BusinessWeekOnline. The Venturi Astrolab can achieve a top speed of about 70 mph and its performance is "remarkably close to that of a petrol-engined vehicle". While the two-seater can be fueled completely be the power of the sun, it also functions as a plug-in hybrid, so it can also be fueled by standard electricity. Sure this solar hybrid is expensive, but it clearly demonstrates what CAN be accomplished. Maybe the 'solar economy' makes more sense than the 'hydrogen economy'.

GM's naive, monopolistic and capitalistic fuel cell vehicle plans?

"Hydrogen fuel cell-powered vehicles could hit showrooms as early as 2011 and the technology will revitalize General Motors, GM Vice Chairman Bob Lutz said as he delivered a hydrogen concept car to be test driven by Camp Pendleton Marines over the next few months." (more)

Hmmm. So, why will fuel cells revitalize GM more than any other automaker?

For decades GM has successfully lobbied the government not to increase fuel economy standards because such a move would interfere with GM's fuel cell development. For decades, GM has told the government, zero emission fuel cell vehicles were just around the corner. Now, once again, GM's fuel cell vehicles are just around the corner - at least according to GM execs.

Should we believe them this time, or has GM cried fuel cell one too many times?

Every major automaker on the face of the planet is working on fuel cell vehicles, and most of these automakers, as well as most automotive experts, claim that cost-effective fuel cell vehicles are still more than a decade away, at least. Other experts claim it will take at least two decades or more. Some experts claim it might never happen.

I think it'll happen and here's why.

Recently, fuel cell developers have started to dig the idea of plug-in fuel cell hybrid vehicles. For years now, Toyota has claimed that its hybrid vehicles were the beginning of their fuel cell vehicle platform. Even GM engineers have admitted that their fuel cell vehicles will also be fuel cell hybrid vehicles. This is because fuel cell vehicles will almost certainly require an electric drive, and hybrids offer that electric drive.

Yet, hybrid cars are too expensive for GM, but we are to believe that in a couple of years GM's fuel cell hybrid vehicles will not be? I'd like to see the numbers behind that kind of bean-counting!!

In fact, the idea of plug-in fuel cell hybrid vehicles might call into question the entire idea of the 'hydrogen highway' - and the foundation of GM's fuel cell vehicle program.

O.K. current hybrid vehicles are not the answer to the world's problems. I'll willfully admit that as FACT. Still, next generation hybrids, such as those powered by lithium batteries will almost certainly, easily, achieve over 100 mpg, and plug-in capabilities could extend this efficiency even further.

More important, plug-in hybrid vehicles could receive additional power from small fuel cells. Utilizing a small fuel cell would be far more cost-effective than using a large fuel cell - at least in the short term. Consequently, this could be the quickest way of both ending foreign oil dependency and investing in fuel cells, but the upside doesn't end there.

If you can have a fuel cell in your car, why not in your home? Such a fuel cell could be powered by natural gas, or, in many areas of the U.S., by solar power.

Imagine all of California's homes and vehicles powered by solar-powered fuel cells with excess energy stored in advanced lithium-ion batteries? Would places like California really even need a hydrogen highway?

Why not dare to dream? Why does GM only envision the future as just a subtle offshoot of today's world, of today's energy paradigm? In reality, does America really need a new multi-billion dollar hydrogen highway? Maybe GM does, but America might not.

I'm sure the monopolistic, capitalistic, corporate-lobby-controlled politicians can easily be sold on this idea, but we THE PEOPLE, should demand more. The hydrogen highway might be great for corporate America, but is it really so great for the people of America?

Hybrids are "basis" for fuel cells

"The hybrid is the basis," said Robert Stempel, chairman and CEO of Energy Conversion Devices Inc., which develops batteries used in hybrid cars. "It gets the electric drive on the vehicle. Once you have the electric drive there, then you really don't care if you have the gasoline engine or diesel or fuel cells. The key is that electric drive." (more)

So, why haven't American automakers been more bullish on hybrid vehicles? If hybrids help create the necessary powertrain for fuel cell vehicles, doesn't hybrid production ultimately help reduce the costs for fuel cell production? Moreover, other fuel cell makers have argued that plug-in fuel cell hybrid vehicles could also speed fuel cell development by enabling smaller - thus cheaper - fuel cells to help power the vehicle.

Are American automakers really going to compete in the world auto market by focusing on alternative fuels?

I say technology is the only answer, and it seems American automakers are already missing the boat. C'mon GM and Ford, it's OUR future! Give us foreign-oil dependency, fuel cell investing American-made hybrid vehicles and ask those jackasses in Washington to help foot the bill.

Congress: Plug-in hybrids or extended tax credits for hybrids?

O.K., even oil man, President Bush, says we gotta end our foreign oil dependency, and I think the majority of Americans agree. Consequently, the big talk lately has focused on plug-in hybrid vehicles, and even the largest utility in California is now promoting plug-in technology (more).

I say, 'hold on'.

Plug-in hybrids are an excellent direction to push automotive technology towards, and getting the government involved is both wise and necessary. However, the current tax credit for hybrid vehicles is a far more important issue - for now.

Right now, the market for hybrid cars is dominated by the Toyota Prius. Yet, the Prius and every other Toyota are going to soon see smaller tax credits, quickly followed by no tax credits.

This is how Toyota is rewarded for doing the right thing? This is how consumers are rewarded for doing the right thing? But, back to plug-ins.

Plug-in hybrid technology just isn't cost-effective - at least not mentally - for most Americans. While the technology might pay for itself in the long run, Americans think about today, maybe tomorrow, not 7 years from now.

Plug-in hybrid technology just isn't there yet. Current hybrid vehicles are a hard enough sell for most with tax credits, but without.....?

That doesn't mean we shouldn't strive for plug-ins. We absolutely should strive for plug-in hybrid vehicles, and nothing pushes automobiles towards plug-in technology faster than current hybrid vehicles. The more current hybrids that sell, the faster plug-in hybrids will hit the market.

Plug-in hybrids are a great idea, a great idea that might never see the light of day if tax credits for hybrid vehicles are not extended.

Almost certainly, millions of small business owners have received far more tax incentives for buying gas-guzzling SUVs, so I think the government can afford tax incentives for foreign oil dependency fighting hybrid cars - even if they are Japanese.

Join our campaign for extending the tax credits on hybrid cars.

Hybrids, Flex-fuel guzzling and biodiesel

Well, who knows if we'll need hybrid cars for much longer. Since Chevron has apparently discovered a huge oil reserve, maybe we can go back to $1.00 gas! Of course, then we'll simply increase our demand, and eventually end up back in the same place.

Besides, I say technology can revolutionize the American auto industry, which is only going to survive if we take the automobile into the next generation, and that means the end of gasoline.

But the revolution extends beyond the auto industry.

One of my primary interests in plug-in hybrid vehicles is not just the end of foreign oil dependency, or cleaner energy, but the effect that plug-in technology could have on the solar industry. Imagine clean and green solar energy powering your house and vehicles, while paying for itself in less than 20 years? In the interim, monthly energy expenses will still probably be less than without solar power.

Now that's revolutionary. Besides, alternative fuels have limited potential.

"Even if all of the corn and soy being grown in the U.S. right now were used to make biodiesel in its 100% vegetable oil form, it would only satisfy about 15% of the current demand for diesel fuel," says Geeta Agashe, director of the Petroleum and Energy practice for Kline's research division. (more)

Anyway, don't we have better uses for food crops and all the water we'd need to make these fuels?

Let's face it, a 10 mpg flex fuel vehicle really isn't really going green by going yellow.

Ultimately, technology is the only way forward for America. That means hybrid vehicles and solar power.

Utility company backs plug-in hybrid vehicles

So, now California's largest utility company is getting on the plug-in hybrid bandwagon (more)? And why not? It's just more business for the utility companies, right? Maybe, maybe not.

An even more important issue for many; however, is whether electricity is cleaner than gasoline?

On the face of it, maybe not, but that isn't the real point. The point is, today, hybrid cars are more efficient than conventional vehicles due to technologies such as regenerative breaking which creates electricity stored in batteries. This electricity can be used to fully power some hybrids at lower speeds, such as in the daily slow-and-go commutes of the average urbanite.

And that's where plug-in technology comes in.

Effective plug-in hybrid vehicles will need new battery technology, such as lithium-ion technology. Lithium batteries could increase the efficiency capabilities of hybrids, enabling them to act almost as electric vehicles. Still, if battery power isn't sufficient, gasoline is always available as a backup.

But let's get back to the clean energy debate. Next generation hybrid technology and software, coupled with next generation batteries, means that hybrids can generate even more of their own electricity. Consequently, the vehicle doesn't have to plug-in for all of its fuel - just to top off the batteries. Eventually, this model could even incorporate a small fuel cell, which would make the vehicle even far more efficient.

Already, labs such as Argonne, have studied the clean energy debate and their studies indicate that plug-in hybrids - ALL THINGS CONSIDERED - are cleaner than gasoline powered vehicles. Moreover, over time plug-in hybrids will achieve greater and greater efficiency.

Oh yeah, and we could end foreign oil dependency. Even if plug-in hybrids were ONLY as clean as gasoline vehicles, wouldn't ending foreign oil dependency still make them worth it?

The Best Hybrid Vehicle

So, you think the Toyota Prius is the best hybrid vehicle, or maybe you like the styling of the Honda Civic hybrid?

Maybe you only like SUVs and so you believe the Ford Escape hybrid is the best hybrid available?

Well, unfortunately, the best hybrid vehicle simply isn't being produced.

So, what would it take to create the best hybrid? In a word, a plug. (Finished in Comments)

Plug-in hybrid vehicles are ideal for fuel cell development

For years I have been promoting hybrids, not just to reduce foreign oil dependency or to clean the environment, but to push the evolution of the automobile. As it turns out, plug-in hybrid vehicles might just be the perfect platform for the utilization of fuel cells. (More)

Study indicates strong consumer interest in hybrids, including plug-in hybrids

A study by Synovate indicates the consumers are very knowledgeable about hybrid cars and that almost 50% of those surveyed would consider buying one. Additionally, once consumers are informed about plug-in hybrid technology, consumer interest is also strong. (more)

No Toyota plug-in hybrid until 2010?

Do you like hybrid cars, but you want to wait for a plug-in hybrid vehicle before making a purchase? Well, you might be waiting until at least 2010 before buying such a vehicle from Toyota according to new article in AutoWeek.

Bush plugs plug-in hybrids again

"We're working on battery technologies," President Bush said in Washington at a speech to the National Association of Manufacturers. "They say we're pretty close to a breakthrough in a battery where you can drive the first 40 miles on a battery, and your car doesn't look like a golf cart." (more)

Sure, he might be an oil man, but when it comes to hybrid cars, President Bush deserves a few kudos. Bush has now been on the plug-in hybrid vehicle bandwagon for at least year and he has been lobbying Congress to extend the tax credits for buying hybrid cars. Hopefully, Congress will take a little action.

More on the obstacles regarding plug-in hybrids.

Plug-in hybrid cars not ready for prime time?

I love the idea of plug-in hybrid cars, but I've long believed that plug-in hybrid cars are not ready for prime time. California's current electrical grid, for example, simply could not tolerate millions of cars plugging in at this time. Then there are environmental concerns and high costs.

In reality, even standard hybrid cars aren't yet ready for prime time, but they are close. Until there is a $15,000 hybrid vehicle, mass market consumption of hybrids will be extremely limited. Still, the technology behind hybrid vehicles - both standard and plug-in - is poised for great advancements and both hybrids will not only become more powerful and fuel efficient, but cheaper. In fact, the potential of the next generation of hybrids demonstrates that fuel cell vehicles might not even be quite so necessary. While that doesn't mean we should discontinue fuel cell vehicle research, it does mean we should do everything we can to create the most environment friendly, fuel efficient automobiles as quickly as possible. Hybrids and plug-in hybrids offer too much potential to turn back now. More important, as I recently argued, give consumers the choice to choose their fuel - whether that fuel is gasoline, electricity or ethanol

For an interesting article on the realities of plug-in hybrid cars, check out this CNN article, Plug-in hybrids: Not ready for primetime.

More juice for plug-in hybrid vehicles

Recently, I was doing some research on the Tesla electric car. 0 - 60 in around 4 seconds, 250 miles per charge at a fueling cost of about 1 cent per gallon - how awesome is that? Sure the vehicle costs $100,000 and will probably only be an option for the Hollywood elite, but it still demonstrates that the days of gasoline are nearing an end and that we definitely don't have to wait for hydrogen to save the world.

Even better, especially in the short term, flex-fuel-plug-in hybrid vehicles could be made for less than half the cost of the Tesla. Such a vehicle would extend the range of the vehicle and make it easier to fuel on long distance trips. Additionally, it would allow owners to choose the fuel of their choice.

While gas-guzzlers and their producers consistently talk about consumer choice, wouldn't real choice include not just the size of the vehicle, but the choice of fuel? Let me decide if I want ethanol, gasoline or electricity. Now that's real choice.

Toyota more interested in plug-in hybrids

Toyota is becoming more and more receptive to plug-in hybrid cars saying they are "strongly considering" the technology. Still, there are some critical battery issues that must be resolved and a Toyota plug-in hybrid is still probably years away. More important, Toyota announced that hybrid cars are an integral piece of the future, “Make no mistake about it, hybrids are the technology of the future and they will play a starring role in the automotive industry in the 21st century.” (MSNBC)

$6500.00 to double your hybrid's fuel mileage?

So, you achieve 50 mpg in your Toyota Prius, nice, huh? Would you pay another $6500 to double your mileage? By next summer, that's the price Hymotion is hoping to sell its plug-in kits for hybrid cars. Currently, the price for such a kit and installation is $12,000. Is $6500.00 still too expensive, or a great bargain?

Alternative fuels to save the world?

Can alternative fuels, such as ethanol or biodiesel, end the world's oil dependency?

It seems to me that supply and demand will always catch up to most fuels. Once petroleum was extremely cheap, so cheap that alternative fuels just didn't offer a viable enough economic case compared to gasoline.

While I'm not opposed to alternative fuels, technologies, such as hybrid cars, demonstrate that fuel is becoming less and less important. Lithium-ion powered hybrid cars with plug-in technology, for example, could take the far majority of Americans to work and home every day without any fuel. Now it is true that some electricity would be required to power these hybrids and that electricity might not come from clean sources. Nonetheless, how much quicker would a solar powered roof become cost effective if you could not only power your home, but all of your daily driving needs?

GM considering plug-in hybrid vehicle

GM has stated that it is considering a plug-in hybrid vehicle.

"We are always looking at ways to provide fuel efficiency to our customers, and energy independence to the United States," said GM spokesman Brian Corbett. "Obviously, a plug-in hybrid is something that would definitely be on our radar screen, something we could consider for the future. But I'm not saying we're going to do one or the other." (more)

Concern for energy independence? Oh, really? Wow! I'm sorry, but GM is still admitting that hybrid cars are only useful for image and marketing. I guess their plug-in hybrid vehicle would be for the same?

Still, I hope GM builds the plug-in hybrid.

Is GM heading down the wrong hybrid path?

When the 2008 GM Chevy Tahoe hybrid hits the streets it will add a new page to the technology behind hybrid cars, the Two Mode Hybrid Powertrain. GM's two mode powertrain gives GM hybrid vehicles the ability to optimize performance based on driving conditions - highway versus city.

Toyota's Single Mode hybrid powertrain, on the other hand, is more optimized for city driving. Essentially, Toyota and Ford hybrids utilize larger electric motors and hybrid batteries than will GM hybrids.

So, which is better?

There is no doubt that GM hybrids will have an advantage when it comes to power tasks, such as towing compared to Ford or Toyota hybrids. Additionally, GM hybrids will compete with Toyota and Ford hybrids on the highway.

In the city, in the congestion that is predicted to become significantly worse and more common in the future; however, Toyota and Ford hybrids will dominate. Thus, it is not surprising to hear rumors that GM is intensely studying the Toyota hybrid powertrain.

Inevitably, the real potential of hybrid vehicles lies completely around electric motors and, more importantly, hybrid batteries. It now seems inevitable that lithium-ion batteries will soon replace the current NiMH batteries that power hybrids. This will produce lighter hybrids with significantly greater storage capacity resulting in better performance, cheaper costs and significantly improved fuel economy.

If NiMH batteries are replaced by lithium-ion batteries, hybrids such as the Toyota Prius and the Ford Escape hybrid could achieve massive gains in fuel economy, while costing less. Additionally, these hybrids could accommodate plug-in capabilities as well, resulting in even far greater fuel economy - we're talking 100 mpg +.

GM's dual mode hybrid technology can also utilize lithium-ion battery technology, but not nearly to the extent that Toyota and Ford hybrids can. This could really give Ford and Toyota a huge advantage over GM - at least with consumers that drive in any type of congestion. Since congestion will be the future for most Americans, GM's current hybrid path could be headed into the wrong direction.

What would be the ultimate hybrid vehicle?

In the last year there have been some very interesting hybrid concept vehicles. Two of my favorites are the Ford Reflex hybrid and the Mazda Senku hybrid.

The Reflex is a diesel hybrid 'muscle' car that looks cool, but is an even hotter performer. How hot? How about 0 to 60 in under 7 seconds while achieving 65 mpg? Sure this hybrid requires next generation lithium-ion batteries - the same batteries which could power the Toyota Prius to almost 100 mpg - but if you are going to dream, why not dream big?

That's why I like REALLY like the Senku hybrid. Yes, the styling of this vehicle is incredibly futuristic and some people don't like that, but I do, boy, do I. But the thing that really makes this hybrid special for me is the use of solar technology. By embedding solar cells into the roof, this hybrid vehicle could actually act like a solar-powered plug-in hybrid vehicle. That means that the next-gen 100 mpg Prius could perhaps become a 140 mpg Prius with solar power.

In Southern California - where I live - the constant sunshine could provide a huge source of clean electric energy - making trips to the gas station much less frequent. In the future, make it a solar-powered fuel cell hybrid vehicle and hydrogen gas stations might not even be needed.

The technology behind hybrid cars makes such dreams seem possible.

What would be your ultimate hybrid vehicle?

Toyota to double hybrid lineup by 2010

"We believe that hybrids will be the core technology in the 21st century," said Masatami Takimoto, executive vice president in charge of technology development, at a news conference. Thus, around 2010 Toyota will like to double its hybrid vehicle lineup from today's 7 to around 14 - leading to total sales of around 1 million hybrid cars. Moreover, Toyota wants to cut hybrid costs in half and further develop hybrid batteries - something the automaker indicated it was close to doing. Toyota also acknowledged that it was working on a plug-in hybrid vehicle.

UC Davis hybrid prepares for Challenge X

UC Davis has strong history with hybrid cars, especially plug-in hybrids, so it comes as no surprise that students from the University will enter Challenge X. "UC Davis is the latest entrant to the upcoming Challenge X, a competition to develop a fuel-efficient SUV sponsored by the Department of Energy and General Motors. The UC Davis team's entry, called Trinity, is a modified Chevrolet Equinox whose batteries solely power the SUV for 50 miles before switching to the gasoline-electric hybrid system. A fuel cell powers secondary electrical systems such as air-conditioning." (AutoblogGreen)

New hybrid technology plugged to Congress

Yesterday, a number of scientists promoted plug-in hybrid vehicles to Congress whom might offer $250 million in incentives for such a program. (MORE)

Ford Considering Plug-in Hybrid Vehicle

Yesterday, when Bill Ford was getting hammered by Ford shareholders, he announced that Ford was exploring a plug-in hybrid vehicle. Would plug-in technology have a significant effect on Ford's sales of hybrid cars, or was Ford just looking for a little positive buzz?

What Can the New X-Prize Accomplish?

Almost 2 years ago I drove out to the Mojave Desert in the middle of the morning to watch Burt Rutan blast into suborbital space with SpaceShipOne. While the X-Prize did accomplish its goal, the private business space race has been slow to develop. Of course, conquering space is much more complicated than building an extremely fuel efficient vehicle, isn't it?

That's why the X-Prize's newest venture, a 250 mpg vehicle, is very compelling.

It seems automakers can develop extremely efficient technologies, for example, hybrid cars with lithium-ion batteries, or hybrids that plug-in to the grid for extra power. Combined with lighter materials, new aerodynamic designs, and the automotive revolution seems at hand.

So, why isn't it happening?

While I don't really think the X-Prize will result in much that the standard auto industry hasn't explored, I think the X-Prize could inspire the public - the average auto consumer. The time has come for America to rethink its relationship to the automobile, hopefully, the X-Prize can spur that movement.

Fickle consumers underscore need for hybrid technology

Most Consumers Still Demand Performance and/or Size

Hybrid technology is just emerging and still evolving, but already there are mild hybrids, full hybrids, one-mode hybrids, two-mode hybrids, gasoline hybrids, diesel hybrids, hydrogen hybrids, plug-in hybrids, flex-fuel hybrids, etc.

Another class of hybrids, performance hybrids, have often been the source of much media ridicule because they are as much about performance as fuel efficiency. Such hybrids include the Lexus RX400h and the Honda Accord hybrid. Additionally, other hybrids, such as the Toyota Highlander hybrid, could have been made to be more fuel efficient, but Toyota figured Highlander drivers, and many SUV drivers, still favored a certain level of performance more than fuel efficiency. Much evidence seems to show that Toyota is right.

According to a CNN/Kelly Blue Book study, almost 25% of consumers are willing to give up performance and size for better fuel economy; however, 25% refuse to give up anything for better fuel economy. The other 50% will give up a little size, or a little performance, etc.

Along those same lines, an AutoWeek article notes, Loyalists won't quit big SUVs; hauling power, improved fuel economy help move vehicles . "Arguably, Americans insist on SUVs. It's unique to their lifestyle and utility."

Additionally, while Congress is going to finally address CAFE, it now appears that the new regulations will still protect Detroit's SUV domain. It is just too obvious in Congress that Detroit probably cannot survive if CAFE is pushed too high.

Unfortunately, performance and size are simply more important to most Americans than is fuel efficiency. Nonetheless, ever rising oil prices, ever more realizations of the connection between foreign oil, terrorism and American hate, will slowly force more and more Americans to take fuel efficiency seriously.

The technology behind hybrid cars enables automakers to continue to provide performance and size to Americans, while also significantly reducing foreign oil dependency. This isn't something that should be done, it is something that must be done. While Congress will probably be weak on CAFE, they should be overly aggressive in offering tax incentives to promote hybrid technology.

Join our Campaign to Make Congress Act On Hybrid Tax Incentives.

Is Silicon Valley the Next Detroit, but Cleaner and Greener?

Sometimes I just don't think that Ford and GM are going to find the light at the end of the tunnel. They simply seem to be lost in the past and unable to find a new vision for the future.

While I hope that changes, as the technology behind automobiles evolves from motors and gasoline into computers and batteries, perhaps Silicon Valley is better positioned for the future than is Detroit. That's the point of the article, A car that could save the planet—fast.

This movement, "a growing cluster of engineers, startups, and investors, most of them based in Silicon Valley, that believe they can do what major automakers have failed at for decades: Think beyond the golf cart and deliver an electric vehicle (EV) to the mass market."

"Beyond that, startups are forming to equip new "plug-in" hybrids that run almost entirely on their electric motors. And around the country, a handful of other exotic EVs are showing up on the road -- including George Clooney's new ride, a $108,000 commuter coupe that's just 3 feet wide."

Hybrid cars, such as the Prius, have demonstrated that automakers can do better, much better. If Detroit can't be the place for this automotive revolution, let's hope that Silicon Valley can.

Bush Promotes More Hybrid Tax Incentives This Morning

This morning President Bush said that America needs to end its dependence on oil, but he also noted that such a move will neither be fast nor easy. Again, Bush plugged not only hybrid cars, but plug-in hybrid vehicles. Moreover, he also asked for more tax incentives for buying hybrids and stated that all hybrid buyers should receive the current tax credit.

According to many scientists, $3.00 gas is only the beginning of why we should move on hybrids and other fuel efficient technologies as fast as possible. For if Hubbert's Peak has been reached, or is just around the corner, then America and much of the world will not be able to react fast enough.

On Hubbert's Peak, $3.00 gas is cheap.

So, where or what is Hubbert's Peak? It is the tipping point when global oil production begins a permanent decline. Some scientists think this point was hit in late 2005, others think it will be reached within 20 or 30 years.

In the next 20 or 30 years, global oil demand is predicted to skyrocket. What happens if we reach Hubbert's Peak in 5 years or 10 years? What happens if we've already reached the Peak?

A Prius in Every Pot? Mrs. Dowd smoking too much pot?

"It's taken over five years, but George W. Bush finally made a concession speech to Al Gore.

He conceded that America needs to conserve, by buying hybrid vehicles and developing new energy sources."

This is the lead to Maureen Dowd's A Prius in Every Pot editorial originally posted in the NY Times, in which Mrs. Dowd blames the entire gas crisis on Republicans, particularly Dick Cheney.

Just to be clear, Bush has been on the hybrid band wagon for at least year, even promoting plug-in hybrids last year, but why haggle over facts?

So, Mrs. Dowd would have us believe that Republicans like Cheney, Bush etc. would screw over Americans to make their oil co-conspirators rich at the expense of the entire Republican Party? So, these very rich Republicans are not only selling out their Presidential legacies, but the entire Republican Party, for a little more money?

That's just silly, especially since the current price of oil is decided in the open markets.

Certainly, Republicans deserve a great amount of blame for not helping to promote alternative fuels or alternative technologies, such as hybrid cars earlier. Democrats, on the other hand, deserve considerable blame for protecting the Unions of inefficient, gas-guzzling producing American auto companies.

For decades many Democrats have regularly joined Republicans, including recently, to prevent an increase in CAFE because they knew union members would lose their jobs.

More important, American citizens deserve much blame for not being more fuel efficient. When Europe pays $5.00 for a gallon of gas, did we really believe we could pay just $2.00 forever while always increasing our demand?

And to be fair, just what did President Clinton accomplish to reduce America's average fuel economy in his 8 years? According to statistics, nothing.

O.K., since gas prices weren't that high then, Americans didn't really care about this issue, so we just guzzled more gas. Was this also Bush and Cheney's fault?

Let's not forget, gas-guzzler sales really took off during the Clinton Administration, when Dowd's hero, Al Gore, was in office.

Inevitably, too many Americans, including most members of Congress, waste energy and guzzle gas. Earlier today I posted an article about how the members of Congress contribute to gas-guzzling. Most members of Congress are horrible conservationists and most drive gas-guzzlers, regardless of party.

With this kind of leadership to follow, is there really any wonder why America is in this energy crisis?

Inevitably, Democrats, Republicans, automakers, and many American citizens share the blame for America's oil problems. Too bad professional mudslingers, such as Mrs. Dowd, can't be more open-minded, dare I say fair-minded, for it is precisely this type of myopic, provincial vision that has caused this crisis in the first place.

Plug-in hybrids gain a little momentum

AutoWeek claims, "Hybrid variant holds promise".

"Top politicians from President George W. Bush to Utah Sen. Orrin Hatch have thrown their weight behind a hybrid variant dubbed the 'plug-in hybrid.'

Hatch suggests a plug-in hybrid that burns ethanol could be the 'silver bullet' that frees America from dependency on foreign oil."

Still, effective plug-in hybrids are probably not cost-effective until lithium-ion batteries are far more common. Even then, according to Toyota, such capability could reduce the life of lithium-ion batteries. Obviously, this is a serious concern. Moreover, when lithium-ion batteries are made cost-effective, will hybrid cars even need plug-in capabilities?

Toyota believes its next generation Prius, a coupling of lithium-ion batteries and advanced computer technology, could achieve 94 mpg - without plugging into the grid.

Nonetheless, it's beautiful thing to imagine plugging your hybrid vehicle into a solar or wind powered house for a little extra energy.

Now that's energy independence.

Energy Secretary Disses Hybrids?

U.S. Energy Secretary Samuel W. Bodman called on Americans to embrace ethanol, but did little to promote hybrid cars or clean diesel at the SAE conference in Detroit.

"It should be our common goal that E85 become a nationwide fueling option," Bodman said. "In the coming days, I will be asking that we do more to make consumers aware of the flex-fuel option both when they are considering a new car purchase and for existing owners of flex-fuel vehicles."(DetroitNews)

Additionally, the Secretary plugged electric cars and hydrogen fuel cells as the 'answer' to America's energy problems.

It's ironic that since GM, Ford and Toyota fuel cell vehicles will be hybrid vehicles, that the Secretary didn't promote hybrids, minimally, as a bridge to not just fuel cell vehicles, but electric vehicles as well. Plug-in hybrid vehicles, for example, can function as electric cars, while also providing gasoline, diesel, ethanol, biodiesel or even hydrogen as a supplementary or primary fuel source.

On the other hand, there is a good chance that if someone buys a flex-fuel vehicle, especially if they live on either coast - they will never fill it up with E85, since they won't be able to find any gas stations that carry ethanol.

In fact, if you are worried about the environment, or foreign oil dependency, many flex fuel vehicles cause much more harm than good. Since many flex fuel vehicles are large trucks and SUVs, flex fuel capabilities were only added to avoid penalties for missing CAFE requirements. Consequently, flex-fuel technology is often only serving as a loop hole that increases foreign oil dependency and pollution.

And the government is good at loopholes. According to some, Bush's new CAFE requirements - intended to make more fuel efficient trucks and SUVs - might lead to bigger, more fuel inefficient trucks and SUVs thanks to another loophole. (AutoWeek)

Why should we be surprised since the government already gives unlimited, $25,000 tax deductions for small business owners to buy the most pollution and foreign oil dependency causing vehicles, yet gives much smaller, capped tax incentives for hybrids?

It seems the government and the Energy Secretary are either ignorant, incompetent, or too focused on protectionist legislation designed to protect American corporations, rather than to actually make America a safer place. Apparently, only gigantic, inefficient corporations can save America.

Yes, ethanol is important, but so to is clean diesel, biodiesel, and even clean gasoline. More important, hybrid technology can make any of these fuels much more efficient, while clearing the path to fully electric cars and/or fuel cell hybrid vehicles.

Let's put the power in the hands of the people, not the corporations. Join the campaign for hybrid vehicle tax incentives.