A group of high-tech companies in the US have joined forces to create a consortium that plans to develop a working proof-of-concept passenger Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV).
The so-called Advanced Hybrid Vehicle Development Consortium aims to build a vehicle that will achieve 100-200 mpg by operating in all electric, zero emission mode for the first 20 - 50 miles. This 'Dual Mode' PHEV could then continue to operate in a hybrid electric mode to achieve conventional range of operation.
The Consortium members so far include Provo, UT-based Raser Technologies, San Diego, CA-based Maxwell Technologies, Toronto-based Electrovaya and an unnamed San Francisco,CA-based gas and utility company.
The prototype PHEVs are anticipated to be built with "off-the-shelf" automobile components and available advanced hybrid technologies.
The proof-of-concept hybrid vehicle is intended to demonstrate that the benefits of a PHEV can be achieved in a manufacturable design that meets consumer price and performance objectives, delivers better fuel economy and provides environmental benefits.
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