There is another option:

The only problem is the battery energy pretty much goes away at temperatures under 50F. If you can solve the battery warm-up problem, this would also provide a nice alternative.

This winter, I stored the battery in the house on my charger. But if I had to keep the battery outside, I would add insulation, heating and a temperature regulator. As long as it is out of direct blowing, cold air, the thermal mass the battery should be able to handle 9-10 hours for the evening commute and plug-in to AC power.

Just a thought.

Bob Wilson

 

Not sure if Toyota is ever going to come out w/ a lithium prius. At least not soon. They love their NiMH batteries that are working well. They are making a LiIon EV, but only because ChevronTexaco owns the patent to the NiMH energy batteries (our hybrids have power batteries; good for short bursts of power).

I would definitely wait until there is a better solutions than what's in the market right now. I think that hybrids are okay, but they are no where near what an EV or EREV (extended range EV, like the Volt) can do. There's a lot coming in the next few years, so I'd stick with your current car and tell your dealership "No Plug? No Deal!".

 

Hi Bob,

I've actually been eyeing electric bike and scooter options. Do you have any links to tech info about yours?

I found a shop in Seattle that carries electric bikes. Also saw an electric scooter at Costco.

 

I'm not going to be much help. I ran into the seller at HybridFest and the price was right.

Bob Wilson