Thanks for the latest news. I'm always interested in learning more about the future PHEVs and hybrids. Toyota's generation 3 Prius will achieve higher fuel efficiency via 1. weight reduction 2. more powerful electric motor 3. increased battery capacity 4. improved regenerative braking 5. improved atkinson engine cycle 6. improved aerodynamics 7. improved hybrid system control For the next two years, the current battery chemistry NiMH will be utilized. Then non-plug in lithium ion batteries will be introduced in 2010? 2011? While the non-plug in lithium ion batteries are being introduced, Toyota will "fleet" test plug-in NiMH batteries in limited numbers. These plug-in NiMH batteries will provide EV range of seven miles and top speed of 62mph. If things work out, Toyota may introduce plug in lithium ion batteries the next year (2011? 2012?) that may provide electric range of 20 miles.

There is no statement (from Toyota) on what the plug in version would cost. The authors of this article "guessed" at $30,000 without providing any data on how they arrived at this figure. The Volt has been estimated to be as high as $48,000 purchase price.

Note: there is no mention of close end leasing in this article for either Toyota or GM.

I found the article to be helpful in providing details and facts on what the future may look like.

2005 AWD Escape Hybrid
Best Interstate tank trip MPG 39.02 (scangauge II) for 402 miles on I-70, 10.3 gallons used over mostly flat terrain.

Best Interstate tank trip E30 MPG 34.6 for 271 miles along I-80 in Indiana and Ohio.

Best multiple road tank trip E30 MPG 36.2 for 202 miles in Southwestern Pa.