A Wired News article discusses a new group of automotive component suppliers, the Advanced Hybrid Vehicles Development Consortium, will coordinate the development of the advanced technology needed for a cost effective Plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) that will run the first 20 – 50 miles in all electric zero emission mode. The consortium will develop a prototype hybrid vehicle within a year that includes more-powerful electric motors, longer-lasting batteries and ultracapacitors that can store electricity used for acceleration. The prototype will cost about as much to build as today's hybrids, because some components such as the flywheel will be eliminated. Not only will the vehicle get more than 100 mpg, but consumers will save even more by tapping into the grid.
The group hopes to license the hybrid technology to auto companies that have yet to produce hybrids, which would enable automakers to jump in the game without having to do 15 years of research and development. Companies participating in the group include high performance electric motor manufacturer Raser Technologies, lithium-ion battery manufacturers Electrovaya and Enax, utility Pacific Gas and Electric and ultracapacitor supplier Maxwell Technologies.
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