John Addison

Ford Plans Both Electric Vehicles and Plug-In Hybrids

Davewmart, once again you are on the money. To give lithium batteries long-life, the state of charge window will not use the entire battery. After a few years, its ability to fully recharge could deplete 20 percent. It could then be used in stationary applications such as backup power or spinning reserves. Subscription agreements are not a done deal; look at how PPAs accelerated the adoption of solar power. Use of lithium batteries in EVs does not imply that there are not plenty of applications for lead-acid. Mayascribe, we are starting to see hybrid natural gas heavy-duty vehicles from buses to trash trucks. There are different solutions for different needs.

Ford Partners to Commercialize Electric Cars

Thank you for the valuable feedback.

Total lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions are important. Fortunately, the over 100 early adopters of EV and PHEV which I have interviewed, have largely also been early adopters of renewable energy. As we expand into millions of EV and PHEV, coal power plants at the other end should be a concern. Although I would like to see all coal plants eventually replaced with RE, the efficiency of electric drive systems provides immediate benefits. Electric drive systems are often 300% more efficient that internal combustion engine vehicles that are not hybrid. A PHEV lowers lifecycle emissions even when coal power is used.

California's low carbon fuel standard reports and Argonne National Labs GREET reports are recommended for lifecycle details.

Ford specifically estimated 120 mpg based on a blended mode with both engine and electric motor engaged for part of the driving cycle. Customer's actual results will vary with the amount of stopping (regenerative braking), driving conditions, driving style, etc.

Yes, the Prius is made by Toyota. HMC is a mistake that is not in my original article at cleanfleetreport.com. I have asked the Seeking Alpha editor to correct the mistake.

Good discussion of natural gas. Over 7 million vehicles globally run on natural gas. In the U.S. natural gas heavy-vehicles have been successful in public transportation, delivery fleets, and ports. It is encouraging to see Toyota demonstrating the Toyota Camry Hybird CNG, which they may start offering to fleets.