While we're on the topic of Hybrids and Electric Cars..................

[Joe Handley]

I saw a segment on these guys on Leno's Garage, apparently Bob Lutz, formerly of both General Motors and Chrysler Corporation, is even involved with the company!

http://www.viamotors.com/

http://green.autoblog.com/2012/01/13/via-motors-introduces-plug-in-work-vehicles/

I do like the power outlets that can be used to power a home in an emergency, that would have been quite handy to have had around here the week of the 4th of July, we had no power here at home for a couple days and there were places that had no power for most of the week. These vehicles in a place that has just had a natural disaster could be invaluable during the cleanup and recovery efforts!

[martinfan5]

That is a good idea

[Joe Handley]

That is a good idea

Yup, basically it's a lot like the Volt.........but on a much more useable work truck platform

[martinfan5]

Yup, basically it's a lot like the Volt.........but on a much more useable work truck platform

And lets hope less on the burning down of the owners house's

[Joe Handley]

And lets hope less on the burning down of the owners house's

Well, if the house is wired correctly for a heavy load, that won't be a problem...........Now other stuff in the garage catches fire while it's in there charging, that could still be a problem!

[moparmagiclives]

I wonder what the range is when pulling with the truck.

Or if the 400 mile range empty is continuous.

These things are starting to get pretty refined.

[Joe Handley]

I imagine that range will fall off, that 400 mile range is both electric and gas and to get that back is as simple as a trip to the gas station. Pulling power shouldn't be a problem either with how electric motors make their power....and there's now no 4L60 to grenade either

[Joe Handley]

I just finally got a chance to look at their website more closely and apparently the GM based trucks are powered by the 4.3l V-6 which still is in the sub 200 horse range. They'll also convert Ford trucks and Rams......if they use those respective brand's V-6 engines when converting their trucks, the Ford 3.7l V-6 and Pentastar could make for a couple very potent gen-sets