[ausev] AusEV Digest, Vol 7, Issue 5

[Jane Thorne]

Rob Hirschfeld wrote:
> Hello All,
> 
> I've been lurking on the list for a few weeks and am glad to join the
> crowd of newbies doing intros.  I've been interested in electric cars
> since for a long time: in fact, I'm getting deju vu from my 10 year
> old's interest in them too.  I'm very excited that the time seems to be
> upon us.
> 
> I was impressed with both the WKTEC and the AustinEV display.  This is a
> very impressive group.
> 
> My background is primarily in software that controls other things.
> Today I write building access control systems.  In the past I've worked
> on controls for robots, oil pipelines/platforms, injection molding, and
> virtual servers.
> 
> QUESTION: I'm in the market for a new car (and don't have time to wait
> for a conversion) - Does anyone have a suggestion for a hybrid?  My
> first pick has been the Honda Civic, but I don't know anyone who has
> one.  The Prius is a close second.  I'd like to try get a PHEV option,
> but don't want to kill the warranty on a new car.  Thoughts?
> 
> 

I don't recommend the Toyota Camry Hybrid.  I just bought one and it is 
getting about 30 mpg.  It has bells and whistles, but I'm more 
interested in mileage that razzmatazz.  All-gasoline Camrys can do 
better than 30 mpg.  A replacement rear view mirror for the thing cost 
$200--an indication of parts costs ahead.  The thing hardly ever drives 
using electricity.  The gas transmission kicks in even at slow speeds on 
a level road.  Anybody want to but a Camry Hybrid with 2000 miles on it?