Plug-in Hybrid Fever Spreads, Despite Cost

Chevy Volt

There’s widespread acknowledgement that the next big leap in hybrids—the capacity to plug-in to the grid and run mostly on electricity—will be expensive. But that’s not stopping major automakers from pushing forward with plans for plug-in hybrids that promise dramatic increases in fuel efficiency.

News and announcements about plug-ins have gained momentum in the past few weeks. General Motors said it’s on track to introduce the Chevy Volt plug-in hybrid sedan in late 2010, followed by a plug-in sport-utility vehicle in 2011. Hyundai plans to have a plug-in hybrid on sale by late 2012. Volvo said that its plug-in hybrid will be “a reality” by 2012. Toyota will begin commercial production of plug-in hybrids in 2012, producing between 20,000 and 30,000 units in the first year, according to media reports.

A plug-in hybrid car is similar to a conventional hybrid vehicles—both use a gasoline engine as well as an electric motor. However, plug-in hybrids use larger more expensive battery packs that can be recharged by connecting to common household electricity. Plug-in hybrids provide many of the benefits of an electric car, while maintaining the same driving range as conventional vehicles.

The cost of developing plug-in hybrids, and uncertainty about market acceptance, is not delaying GM’s plans for them—even though the company is in bankruptcy. “I can tell you that I won’t lose one day in terms of customers being able to walk into dealerships and actually purchase a plug-in,” GM Vice Chairman Tom Stephens told Automotive News. The company has not confirmed production numbers, but its intentions clearly are aimed at the mass market. “My job is to get it out there and get it right the first time but then get it cost-effective so that we can do a huge number,” said Stephens.

Blue-Will Concept RearBlue-Will Concept AboveBlue-Will Concept

Hyundai plans to release a plug-in hybrid based on its Blue-Will concept vehicle (shown above.)

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