Boulder, Colorado based Hybrids Plus is doing the conversion with testing help from Rome, NY based ShurePower. ShurePower installs plug-in stations at truck stops, rest areas and other public areas. Hybrids Plus began operations last June and got their first conversion contract from the state of Colorado in July. Currently their conversions are a little on the steep side pricewise. A conversion that provides 15 miles of range on battery power at less than 34 mph runs $24,000. A larger battery that provides 30 miles of battery range bumps the price to $32,500. The press release from Hybrids Plus is after the jump.
[Source: Hybrids Plus]
Hybrids Plus, Inc. to Convert a Ford Escape Hybrid Electric Vehicle to a Plug-in for
BOULDER, CO [December 20, 2006] – The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) has awarded Hybrids Plus, Inc., working in partnership with ShurePower, Inc., a contract to convert a Ford Escape hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) to a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle. This project, as part of the New York State Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) Technology Initiative, is proving the viability of PHEV technology and the related environmental benefits when applied to the sport utility vehicle (SUV). The major benefit of converting an HEV to a PHEV is increased reliance on clean electric power and significantly improved gasoline mileage per gallon. This increase yields a lower fuel and operating cost, reduced CO2 emissions for lower environmental impact, and reduced dependence on foreign oil sources. After converting the Ford Escape Hybrid the PHEV conversion kit will undergo testing and qualification for deployment in the New York State-owned vehicle fleet, and Hybrids Plus will be positioned to offer PHEV conversions to NYSERDA and other owners of hybrid SUV models, a major market in the
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"Converting HEVs to PHEVs helps minimize the impact of transportation on the environment. Bringing plug-in conversion technology to SUV Hybrids promises to produce even more environmentally friendly vehicles in the future," said Carl Lawrence, president of Hybrids Plus.
"PHEV development is a promising new technology that will reduce petroleum consumption and associated emissions from the transportation sector. Our modular components can be used to quickly install weather-proof charging outlets in parking lots and wherever else PHEVs are parked," stated Jeff Kim, Chief Operating Officer, ShurePower, Inc.
The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) is a public benefit corporation created in 1975 by the New York State Legislature to promote research and development and environmental protection activities. For more information on NYSERDA and its programs, visit www.nyserda.org or call 1-866-NYSERDA
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