Thoughts on a plug-in hybrid conversion

BlueDotTom wrote:
I should mention that there is also a hitch-mounted option which can be quickly removed before hooking up a trailer if payload is a limiting factor.

Regarding engine braking...we will, in the future, offer a blended operation mode where you can use both the engine and the motor, in which case you would get regenerative braking. As I mentioned before, this gets tricky with regulations in some states, so we won't tackle that until we're established in the marketplace.

PHEVs in general are a great solution for a lot of people, based on how most people actually drive. But definitely not for everyone. For a big chunk of people, the payback period for a system like this would be less than a financing term, so you can go into it only saving money. And this is without any gov't incentives (which we're working on) or leveraging carbon credits (in states that have cap-and-trade systems, they can cut the price almost in half).

Thanks so much folks...this is all fantastic info.

A hitch mounted system wouldn't be helpful as that's the worst place to add weight for payload and presumably it would block the tailgate. Then there is the issue that in a rear-end crash (the most common type), the system would be the first thing to get damaged.

I'm still not getting the regulation issue. Once you mess with the drivetrain, you've messed with the drivetrain and you will have to meet the emissions regulations...of course, adding an electric motive force obviously wouldn't make the emissions worse...teamed with the ICE or not.

I do agree Plug-in-Hybrids would be a great option for many pickup owners. Few people commute more than 30-40miles per day but even if you commute 80miles per day, a 40mile battery range would convert 50% of your miles to electric. But ganging the ICE and EV together is where I see it as a game changer for folks who actually want to use their pickups capability.

Also, care to share the math behind a 3yr time of return. Assuming a typical 12k mile annual usage and modern 1/2 tons able to get in the low to mid-20mpg, I'm coming up with around $1500 fuel savings per year but that needs to be discounted by the electric consumption you have to pay for. I'm coming up with 6-8yrs payback.

Maybe look at it for the small pickup market (ie: rangers, etc...) Far fewer of those are used for towing or otherwise maxed out use, so the loss in payload would be less of a concern.