Currently, most plug-in conversions are being done by non-profit organizations and universities, but that is changing.
Today, the biggest provider of plug-in hybrid conversion kits is Hymotion, a divison A123Systems.
Currently, the Hymotion kit costs about $10,000, although tax credits are available. Unfortunately, most available kits are also limited to the the Toyota Prius, from the second generation on.
Overall, the installation is pretty simple because it does not require replacing the current NiMH battery pack. The Hymotion lithium-ion battery pack simply supplements the current pack. Still, a qualified 3rd party installer is required.
While the costs are high, for Los Angeles area drivers, for example, making cross-county commutes, etc on a daily basis, this technology could still pay for itself considering the excessive stop and go traffic. However, it will take many years to recoup that investment.
Fortunately, the Hymotion plug-in conversion kit does not cancel out Toyota's warranty.
Other companies are also working on plug-in conversion kits. If you would like to tell us about a plug-in conversion kit, e-mail us at soultek@soultek.com.
There are also some resources out there for do-it-yourselfers. For example, the SEVA offers help for Prius conversions.
More important, some have figured that if Toyota did this internally, they could probably make plug-in Prius hybrids for just $3000.00 more than the current Prius.
Let's make Toyota act!!!
--> Plug-in Hybrid Conversion module fits in your spare tire well
--> Hymotion offering plug-in kit for the Prius; Escape hybrid kit coming soon
--> More juice for plug-in hybrid vehicles
-- > Want to help make plug-in hybrid vehicles a reality? Join our campaign!!
