I like the idea of the PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle). The concept is that, like traditional hybrids, the car has both an electric and an internal combustion engine. The difference is that this hybrid can be plugged into the grid and can run exclusively on electricity for the shorter commuter trips. The internal combustion engine acts as a fall back which, in my opinion, will be required during a transition to full electric.
From an environmental perspective you may argue that energy has to come from somewhere and since roughly half of the electricity in the U.S. is produced from coal how does the electric car help? The answer lies in efficiency. The "thermal efficiency" (the ability to convert fuel into useful work) of an internal combustion engine is terrible, in the 20-25% range. An old fashioned pulverized coal power plant is around 34% and the newer ones are better than 40%. Electric motors aren't 100% efficient either but when you do the math it turns out that driving an electric car, even one powered by electricity produced from coal, emiisions per mile/km driven are lower. Clearly electric cars contribution to the air quality of urban centers would be substantial.
From an energy independence perspective I think the benefits are obvious. Any reduction in the dependence on foreign energy sources is a good thing.
One concern I have with hybrids and PHEVs is the cost of maintenance and upkeep. I highly doubt the complexity of the drive system will lend itself to inexpensive repairs and specialized equipment and training will definitely be required. Then there is the cost of the battery pack. The battery pack has a limited life and at some point will have to be replaced. This will run into the thousands of dollars.
Fortunately my current car will last another 5+ years so there is some time for the technology to develop a little further before I have to consider such a purchase.
