Plug-in hybrids are just what they sound like: a gasoline-engine hybrid vehicle that has a battery that can be plugged in for recharging. They are being designed to handle a commuter-type range (20 to 60 miles) on just their electric charge, with the internal combustion engine providing valuable backup. Plug-in hybrids will help to provide a stepping-stone for folks who aren’t able to utilize all-electric cars due to their shortened range. With a variety of plug-ins in planning stages, we bet this list will expand over time. And please write to us if you learn of others that should be included here.
Chevrolet Volt
© General Motors Corp.
A concept plug-in hybrid that’s slated for production, the Volt utilizes a lithium-ion battery system that can power the car's electric motor for 40 miles of city driving, and it’s recharged by simply plugging into a standard outlet for six hours. The one-liter, three-cylinder gasoline engine drives a generator to recharge the battery, vital for longer trips. But that's not all: The Volt doubles as a flex-fuel vehicle that can fuel up on E85. We can’t wait for 2010, when the Volt is set to hit the streets.
Fisker Karma
© Fisker Karma
Fisker Automotive, Inc. offers its first production car, the Fisker Karma, a 4-door plug-in hybrid sports sedan. Initial deliveries are slated for the end of 2009 with annual production to reach 15,000 cars. Fisker’s goal is to provide “beautiful, environmentally friendly cars that make sense without compromise.” The Karma is equipped with Q DRIVE, a small gasoline engine generator and lithium-ion battery pack that’s mated to the electric motor—this supplies 50 emission-free miles daily, if the car is charged once a day. Imagine fueling up only one time per year by following this routine. Starting price: $80,000.
Toyota Prius PHEV
© Toyota
Several Prius PHEV plug-in prototypes have been used at college campuses (and at the North American International Auto Show), and we wouldn’t be surprised to learn that the Prius will be one of the first plug-in hybrids available to the general public also (although no date has been announced). The plug-in offers a second nickel-metal hydride battery pack, allowing for greater levels of electricity storage that can also be recharged by plugging into a standard household outlet, versus the current Prius which can only be recharged via the gasoline engine.