Which will be the first plug in electric hybrid (PHEV) to market by a major auto maker?

Question

Chevy (Volt), Honda, Toyota, etc.

& what date will it be available?

Also, which will be the most affordable?

Which will offer the best gas efficiency?

Which will offer the best performance?

Thanks.

Answer 1

The first viable Plug in Electric Hybrid may not be made by a major auto mfg. Private industry sponsored by wealthy dot com venture capitalists may beat the behemoths to the punch. Then one of the majors will buy the company.

Of the majors, GM is one of the front runners. Toyota can not be ruled out. The European companies are concentrating on diesel, though not exclusively.  

The brilliant thing about plug in hybrids is that they can be plugged into  the grid and supply energy during high usage times and help run your air conditioner on hot days, or your neighbor's, or mine.

As far as affordability, the hybrids are always going to be more expensive than pure electrics because there are two drive trains, and one is really expensive and uses gasoline.

Answer 2

Darkrider, you are dreaming if you think fuel cells will come out before plug-in hybrids.  Fuel cells are a generation away, commercially.  Commercially, I said.  That means when they make sense, economically.

Answer 3

I think most car companies are exploring fuel-cells, in terms of alternative fuel vehicles. I wouldn't look forward to any PHEVs any time soon.....

Answer 4

There seems to be a race between the Chevy Volt and the PHEV Toyota Prius.  Both are expected out by model year 2010.  We'll have to wait and see which will be more affordable and efficient.