Solar Kits to Aid Hybrid Efficiency
Solar Electric Vehicles and solar pioneer Greg Johanson have developed a solar kit for the Toyota Prius that increases range and and fuel econemy far and above the norm for the hybrid. The DIY solar kit increases range by up to 20 miles and fuel econonmy by up to 25%. The company is testing its first solar energy system exclusively for hybrids in four Prius prototypes and a Highlander.
The kit will come with an instructional DVD to aid in installation and can generate as many as 1,300 watt-hours a day, enough to give your solar Prius a solar power range of 5 to 8 miles. Couple that with the NiMH battery and you're looking at an all-electric range of up to 20 miles, the company says. That's enough to boost fuel economy at least 20%.
As if the Toyota Prius were not environmentally friendly enough, with the solar conversion battery life is extended and CO2 emissions are cut by at least 9,000 pounds over the life of the car. solar Electric Vehicles hopes to expand their marketing and reach an agreement for the Chevy Volt as well as other hybrid models.
Porsche's first hybrid is not the fastest, least-expensive or most fuel-efficient big luxury SUV, but it's probably the best all-around vehicle in its class.
The hybrid car market is one of the fastest growing segments of the automotive industry with an enviable annual growth rate. Here are four great reasons to own a hybrid car.
The Chevrolet Volt was named North American Car of the Year at the Detroit Auto Show. It is just another marketing jolt for the electric car.
The silent running hybrid vehicle may soon be a thing of the past if Congress has their way. The new legislation would require a set of minimum sound levels for hybrid and electric vehicles.
Toyota will pay to fix about 650,000 Prius models worldwide for a coolant pump glitch that could cause the hybrid to overheat and lose power.