Convert a Toyota Prius hybrid into a plug-in hybrid

In an effort to build up awareness and to challenge carmakers to do the same, CalCars is attempting to convert a Prius into a plug-in hybrid...

In an effort to build up awareness and to challenge carmakers to do the same, CalCars is attempting to convert a Prius into a plug-in hybrid. The plug-in will get 100+ mpg when they're done.

CalCars at the Make Magazine Maker Faire
Sebastopol, CA (March 1, 2006)- Following President Bush's recent endorsement of advanced hybrids, and coinciding with Earth Day weekend, The California Cars Initiative (CalCars.org) will publicly convert a Toyota Prius hybrid into a "plug-in" hybrid during the inaugural Make magazine Maker Faire, April 22-23.

Over two days, CalCars engineers, along with a cadre of volunteers, will build and install a battery pack and make hardware and software adjustments to the stock Toyota Prius. The finished "PRIUS+" will drive back to Seattle, Washington after the Faire with a 10-mile low-speed all-electric range in addition to its regular hybrid extended range.

Unlike a standard hybrid, which uses the gasoline engine to power its battery, a plug-in hybrid adds a larger battery that can re-charge from a household 120-volt outlet. The result: a 100+ MPG plug-in hybrid fueled with gasoline plus cleaner, cheaper, domestic electricity.


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