Dual Mode Hybrids—PHEVs

A Dual mode hybrid can drive around town in all electric mode, and automatically switch to hybrid mode for longer distances.  This allows most drivers to operate most of the time without burning gas.  A dual mode hybrid can run in  zero mode much of the time on clean renewable electric energy for just about 50 cents per equivalent gallon.  The Consortium will coordinate the development of the advanced technology needed for this kind of car and incorporate this technology into cost effective PHEV designs.  The Consortium will then work with major automakers to build prototype PHEVs that can achieve 100-200 total mpg petroleum economy by driving its first 20 – 50 miles in all electric zero emission mode.

By leading a cooperative research and development consortium with the participation of major automobile manufacturers, the consortium can help demonstrate the benefits of PHEVs and accelerate them into the marketplace. The first Dual-Mode PHEVs will be built with “off-the-shelf” automobile components and available advanced hybrid technologies. The “proof-of-concept” hybrid vehicle will demonstrate that the benefits of a PHEV can be achieved in a cost-effective “manufacturable” design that meets consumer price and performance objectives and delivers significantly better fuel economy and more environmental benefits. An “off-the-shelf” PHEV-20 and an advanced PHEV-50 vehicle will deliver improved performance and extended vehicle range and battery life while operating for just 50 cents per equivalent gallon of gas on electric fuel.

Benefits to Consumers
The consortium provides an opportunity to demonstrate the immediate and attainable benefits of a “next generation” Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle that meets manufacturers performance and price objectives using technology that is currently available for production. It also results in a near production-ready prototype built with the cooperation of automakers who can then move this technology immediately into production. This kind of car offers very tangible benefits for consumers including lower fuel costs, a choice of fuels including electric and renewable liquid fuels and clean quiet zero emission operation for most drive cycles. It also allows consumers to drive for as little as 24 cents per equivalent gallon of gas in some states and as low as 50 cents per equivalent gallon in states such as California.
 

See the Video Update on the PHEV Project

See Consortium Project: Series PHEV Drive System