It's time to pimp some hybrids

In reporting on the trend in the automotive market to add dashboard electronics to non-luxury cars, PhysOrg points out that "pimping your ride" is now virtually mainstream. Regular consumers are reportedly ignoring engine size and other traditional benchmarks for a vehicle's value in preference for a burgeoning fascination for gadgets such as heated cup holders, rear parking cameras, iPod integration kits and voice-activated navigation systems. Well if that's the case, let's push the auto makers to trick out their hybrids and other green vehicles to help drive even more sales.

Analysis: If hybrid, plug-in electric, fuel-cell and flex-fuel technologies are the 'next generation' of automotive technology, then surely vehicles based on them should be next generation too? Load them up with so many gadgets you'd need extra fuel-cells on board to run the show. I don't know about you but I'd love to see a pimped Prius.

Related:

• ZAP releases details and drawings of their impending 644 horsepower ZAP-X electric SUV
• Toyota hybrids sell briskly in February; Prius sets all-time monthly record
• Geneva Motor Show: Toyota Hybrid-X concept

[Source: PhysOrg]