Advocates of the technology claim that it is the best solution to the nation’s current fuel problems. Major automakers, however, claim that the technology is anything but feasible for production, at least for now. Well, let us just allow these experts to discuss the possible scenarios by themselves. The important thing is that another possible solution to our power problems has been brought to the table. And that proposed solution is the ‘plug-in’ hybrid vehicle.
A ‘plug-in’ hybrid vehicle is a special type of gasoline-electric hybrid vehicle that can simply be plugged into a wall outlet for charging. But while the technology makes it easier for hybrid vehicle owners to power their cars, it makes the production of hybrid vehicles more difficult and costly on the part of auto manufacturers. This is probably the reason why many auto makers are still not biting the idea.
The largest obstacle for the eventual integration of a ‘plug-in’ hybrid system in a production vehicle is the battery. According to Brian Corbett, spokesman for General Motors Corporation, ‘plug-in’ hybrids “typically have bigger batteries, which are usually the most expensive part of a hybrid car.” And while using exotic materials like lithium and nickel alloy for the production of the battery can partially solve the size problem, these materials can also heighten the production cost.
Despite the production hassles and costs, some companies are willing to give the idea a try. This willingness was manifested first by eDrive Systems, a California company who is planning to offer a plug-in conversion for the Toyota Prius. The conversion will add 180 pounds in lithium-ion batteries to the Prius. However, it will also allow the vehicle to run 100 mpg, with up to 35 miles driving on electricity alone. The same company is also working on the conversion of other hybrids, including the Ford Escape.
On the part of the large auto manufacturers, only DaimlerChrysler AG has, so far, offered to give the technology a try. The company has agreed to build 40 ‘plug-in’ hybrid Sprinter delivery vans for testing worldwide.
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