A plug-in Hybrid that can go 84

A Daimler Chrysler Smart forFour has been converted into a plug-in hybrid by Lithium Technology Corp. and Zytek Systems. The lithium-ion battery, created by automotive power train and power management company, Zytek, can propel the vehicle up to 84 mph and last on its own for up to 20 miles. It can be charged by either plugging it into an electrical outlet or the internal combustion engine combined with regenerative braking. The engine is a combination of a 68 horsepower, 1.5 liter, 3-cylinder turbo charged diesel engine and two high-efficiency permanent-magnet electric motors. An internal battery management system helps to maximize the vehicle’s efficiency. Zytek was awarded £1.8 million by the Energy Saving Trust for the “Ultra Low Carbon Car Challenge” project.

Via [The Energy Blog] Site [Lithium Tech. Corp.] Site [Zytek Systems]