In March 2009, First Electric Cooperative purchased and modified a Toyota Prius Hybrid, converting it to a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV). It is used as a teaching and demonstration tool in conjunction with other educational programs currently in place at First Electric. The conversion from a standard Toyota Prius Hybrid to a Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle was completed by certified technicians from the Automotive Vehicle Research Center.
New lithium-ion battery technology allows the PHEV to possibly get 80-100 miles per gallon. The A123 Hymotion conversion kit is specifically designed for aftermarket installation in the Prius Hybrid. Nanophosphate™ chemistry used in the cells provides higher energy density while retaining the high power capability necessary for sustained vehicle operation. It will be a year or two before these new battery cells are available in mass quantities for consumer purchases.
The 5.5 kilowatt-hour battery is installed in the spare tire wheel well. At a cost of 10 cents per kilowatt-hour for electricity, a single charge would cost about 50 cents. A complete charge from a depleted battery takes approximately 5 hours by plugging the vehicle into a standard 110 volt outlet.
The PHEV will become an integral part of the education and safety programs that First Electric presents to our local communities. It will also be a natural tool to help raise public awareness about the PHEV and how it can help us be more energy efficient and, in general, help the environment. Click here for FAQs
For more information, visit www.firstelectric.coop or send e-mail questions to phev@firstelectric.coop. If you would like to schedule a group presentation of the PHEV, call 800-489-7405.
Toyota Prius Plug-in-Electric Hybrid
Pictures of the hybrid conversion.
Copyright 2009, First Electric Cooperative, 1000 South JP Wright Loop Road, Jacksonville AR 72076, 1-800-489-7405
