Independence-(a)

(Raquel Simental) In three years, plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs) will be available for purchase. Unlike today’s hybrids, which use both gas and electric motors, the PHEVs produce fewer emissions because they run solely on battery power for up to 40 miles, after which a gas-fueled generator kicks in to provide power for the electric motor. PHEVs will be around 10 to 20 percent more than current hybrids, however the Senate introduced a bill that will give buyers of plug-in hybrids a tax credit of up to $7,500 to defray the costs.
 * Fox, Zack. “ELECTRIC HYBRIDS AT STARTING LINE Plug-in vehicles known as PHEVs that reduce emissions and gas use are being developed by automakers and are about three years away.” //The Denver Post// 19 June 2007: C-01.**

G.N. Baum, B.D. James, F. Kuhn Jr., F.D. Lomax Jr., C.E. Thomas, “Affordable Hydrogen Supply Pathways for Fuel Cell Vehicles,” __International Journal of Hydrogen Energy__ 23, 6 (1998): 507-516. http://dx.doi.org.libproxy.usc.edu/10.1016/S0360-3199(97)00102-X If you are focusing on Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicles (HFCVs), then this is a great study that illustrates and describes the primary barriers to larger production and market success of HFCVs. The study is based on a contract DOE had with Ford Motor Company and Directed Technologies to develop direct HFCVs. The research process provided insight into the dangers of onboard hydrogen storage and the issues relevant to hydrogen infrastructure development. Ideas on how to more safely and efficiently store hydrogen on a fuel cell vehicle are discussed, with an emphasis placed on the most common method for producing hydrogen – steam methane reformers. Additionally, there is great discussion and explanation regarding the lack of current infrastructure and ways to balance supply in relation to demand, so that the need for major capital investments are minimized. Here some fueling option ideas are discussed in regards to promoting more drivers to transition into HFCV users. There are helpful cost and performance comparisons made between gasoline powered vehicles and HFCVs. The paper also outlines key benefits to the environment in increased use of HFCVs. --Kristine