The U.S. Big Three automakers will get $30 million over three years for plug-in hybrid R&D, the Department of Energy announced Thursday. While less than automakers wanted -- last year they pushed for $500 million -- each welcomed some funding for various aspects of plug-in research. Chrysler plans to build a test fleet of 80 plug-ins, including 10 adapted Dodge Durangos and Chrysler Aspens; General Motors will also build a fleet, as well as focusing funds on enhancing engine innards; and Ford will work on a project "to identify a pathway that accelerates mass production of plug-in hybrid vehicles." DOE wants cost-competitive plug-ins ready for wide use by 2016; General Motors has said it'll have plug-ins available by 2010, but warns the cost will likely be high until a cheaper battery is developed.
source: The Detroit News, Detroit Free Press, MotorTrend
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What would be really neato...is if oil profits were taxed--say, a paltry .001%--and reinvested in plug-in technology. And it would at least double this ridiculous amount. Probably piss a few oil execs off too.
corporate welfarethese guys don't deserve any government money.
Taxes are never the answer...We live in a capitalist society--there is nothing wrong with a company making money, that's what they are supposed to do! Taxing the oil companies would just ripple down. Less profits means lower dividends for shareholders, less money for people saving, or already in retirement. Not just "the rich" own stock in these companies. If you are invested in a mutual fund, IRA, 401K, or other investment vehicle the chances are pretty high that some of your ...read more
Consider thisOne-and-a-half minutes in Iraq costs $30 million dollars.
http://greyfalcon.net/iraqvsenergy.png
And thats in addition separate from the $14 billion dollars in annual direct subsidies and tax breaks we give the oil industry.
http://www.nytimes.com/2007/01/18/washington/18cnd-royalt ...
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If you are really against Corporate Welfare, then atleast call for it on all sides. Otherwise you are just using that position as a excuse.
Increasing Mileage, far and away, is ...read more