Plug In Prius can't come fast enough

While gas prices rise higher than most celebs' skirt lines, auto makers tremble and the economy within it continues to sway on shaky ground. While the recent green acts of the trendy "green" initiatives of car makers are notable, I can't be more excited than to see the developments of the "plug in" variety.

Toyota presented UC-Irvine and UC-Berkeley prototype models, and while this was not a huge surprise considering that Toyota has worked with both schools previously on their advanced technology projects, the progress and outlook was more than promising and better than expected. Those delivered to the schools are based on the current-generation Prius, the world's first and most popular hybrid vehicle. The cars are powered by over sized packs of nickel-metal hydride batteries that effectively simulate the level of performance Toyota expects to achieve when it eventually develops more advanced, compact and powerful battery systems.

The prototypes are designed to run in electric mode more often and at higher acceleration than the current Prius. This results in substantial gains in fuel economy and a major reduction in total tailpipe emissions (so, I guess they are still on the green train :). Charging is done conveniently, with an ordinary three-prong cord and household electrical outlet. The extra battery is housed in the trunk, taking up what was space for a spare tire. Not a bad deal.

However, there are always challenges, UC-I will be working on the technical emissions issues, while UC-B will be working on improving the customer experience. I can't wait!

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Plug In Prius can't come fast enough

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