A123SYSTEMS Hymotion L5plug-in conversion for the Toyota Prius
This company builds conversion kits that can transform a hybrid vehicle into a plug-in hybrid. The Plug-in Conversion Module (PCM) is a high-capacity lithium-ion battery that extends the car's electric range. This battery functions in parallel with the hybrids' exiting batteries thus extending the full EV mode. A hybrid uses regenerative braking to recharge its pack. A recharge of the PCM requires only 5.5 hours in a 110-volt outlet.
The PCM is located in the trunk and does add weight to the car. It lessens the Prius' already limited driving dynamics, however the cost benefits far outweigh this loss. A123SYSTEMS is based in Concord, Ontario.
2010 Mitsubishi i-MiEV
Here's another familiar face. Underdog to the LEAF and Volt, the little Mitsubishi is far from being without its merits. As with all electric vehicles, the i-MiEV's batteries provide loads of torque from the get-go. For fun, we ran a few quarter-mile runs simply to experience the electrical rush. Charging the i-MiEV, at this time, would cost less than $2, affording the owner 100 km for only $1.50. Try travelling that distance with $1.50 of gas.
The i-MiEV will prove to be a great small family car. For average commutes or within the car's 120-km range, the Mitsubishi will carry four adults and some gear.
2009 BMW 118d
The BMW 1-Series hatchback is one of our favourites. Here's a basic mode of transportation with a diminutive 2.0L turbo diesel engine that turns out to be a blast to drive. Beyond that, this little 5-door is loaded with features that help make it exceptionally green. It is equipped with start-stop (like the fortwo), active aerodynamics and regenerative braking.
The best part about all of these technologies is that they do not affect the Bimmer's driving dynamics. You can enjoy the car's 221 lb-ft of torque, slick 6-speed manual box all the while consuming only 4.0L of fuel per 100 km on the highway; equal or better than most hybrids!
This company builds conversion kits that can transform a hybrid vehicle into a plug-in hybrid. The Plug-in Conversion Module (PCM) is a high-capacity lithium-ion battery that extends the car's electric range. This battery functions in parallel with the hybrids' exiting batteries thus extending the full EV mode. A hybrid uses regenerative braking to recharge its pack. A recharge of the PCM requires only 5.5 hours in a 110-volt outlet.
The PCM is located in the trunk and does add weight to the car. It lessens the Prius' already limited driving dynamics, however the cost benefits far outweigh this loss. A123SYSTEMS is based in Concord, Ontario.
2010 Mitsubishi i-MiEV
 |
| Photo: Matthieu Lambert/Auto123.com |
Here's another familiar face. Underdog to the LEAF and Volt, the little Mitsubishi is far from being without its merits. As with all electric vehicles, the i-MiEV's batteries provide loads of torque from the get-go. For fun, we ran a few quarter-mile runs simply to experience the electrical rush. Charging the i-MiEV, at this time, would cost less than $2, affording the owner 100 km for only $1.50. Try travelling that distance with $1.50 of gas.
The i-MiEV will prove to be a great small family car. For average commutes or within the car's 120-km range, the Mitsubishi will carry four adults and some gear.
2009 BMW 118d
 |
| Photo: Matthieu Lambert/Auto123.com |
The BMW 1-Series hatchback is one of our favourites. Here's a basic mode of transportation with a diminutive 2.0L turbo diesel engine that turns out to be a blast to drive. Beyond that, this little 5-door is loaded with features that help make it exceptionally green. It is equipped with start-stop (like the fortwo), active aerodynamics and regenerative braking.
The best part about all of these technologies is that they do not affect the Bimmer's driving dynamics. You can enjoy the car's 221 lb-ft of torque, slick 6-speed manual box all the while consuming only 4.0L of fuel per 100 km on the highway; equal or better than most hybrids!