New 100 MPG Prius Shown Off To House Subcommittee

A team of Northern California promoters of "plug-in hybrids" demonstrated their technology to a House science team. While receiving bi-partisan endorsement, success may be in the hands of the auto industry.

1 minute read

May 19, 2006, 7:00 AM PDT

By Irvin Dawid

On May 17, San Francisco Bay Area researchers and entrepreneurs brought their plug-in hybrid vehicle technology to show off for a House science subcommittee.

"'I brought my infrastructure with me,' said Felix Kramer, founder of the Redwood City-based nonprofit California Cars Initiative, known as CalCars, holding up a foot-long three-pronged extension cord for plugging his souped-up Toyota Prius hybrid models into household electric sockets for recharging.

CalCars has altered two Prius cars to fit expensive nickel metal hydride or lithium ion batteries and recharging devices that allow the cars to be plugged in to many household outlets for overnight recharging. The result, Kramer said, is fuel economy approaching 100 mpg, and the ability to run for 30 to 50 miles solely on the batteries."

"Advocates say the key is getting an automaker to adopt the technology for a small fleet that could be tested under real-life conditions. CalCars is in talks with Ford Motor Co., which already has moved into hybrids and ethanol vehicles."

Members of Congress say they realize that no single technology will solve America's oil addiction. They hope to move on several fronts by fostering research and offering incentives.

Thanks to Ralph Borrmann

FULL STORY: Plug-in hybrids charge Hill, Bay Area group touts cars to House panel

Thursday, May 18, 2006 in The San Francisco Chronicle

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