PG&E Makes Deal with Raser for 100mpg (plug-in) Hybrids (Calif.)

http://www.renewableaccess.com/rea/news/story?id=51412

Pacific Gas and Electric Company has announced it has entered into an agreement with Raser Technologies, Inc. for the purchase and demonstration of two plug-in series hybrid electric sport utility vehicles (SUV). The plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) are designed to achieve over 100 miles per gallon (mpg) in typical daily driving, while operating in near zero emission mode.

Initially, PG&E will purchase two plug-in hybrid SUVs from Raser for demonstration and testing, with the goal to integrate additional PHEVs into its fleet in the future. The PHEVs are expected to cut operational fuel costs up to 75 percent by driving in all-electric mode during typical daily fleet routes of up to 40 miles. When driving beyond the 40-mile battery electric range, the PHEVs may continue up to 400 miles by generating their own electricity.

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I would like to see a car with that kind of mileage available at an affordable price here in the U.S.
I am confident it would be a hit.

Imagine a regular car...

Up to 40 miles per charge all electric at xx kw-hr/mile
Up to YY miles per gallon running without the battery pre-charged. (i.e. All power from the gas engine)
And then maybe a standardized combined MPG rating for an EPA test course.

Heck I could probably get 100mpg from a plug in Mack Truck with a 950HP powerplant. Although it might prefer to be recharged using 480V 3phase.

the idea that under day-to-day driving, they use very little gas. Assuming your day-to-day driving falls mostly inside the radius of the battery.

You know how reporters love conveying the subtleties of energy issues. Or, well, anything.
:eyes: