[SGVLUG] [OT] Especially for Tom & his Prius.... [my rebuttal, then I'll shut up]

[James Neff]

By contrast, I think we could build a turbodiesel hybrid within

>something like the normal automobile development cycle and have a high
>expectation that it will succeed.  Right now maybe it's not *quite*
>at that point in that no one manufacturer may quite have the right
>technology (i.e. might need the electric system from Toyota and/or Honda
>and the diesel from DaimlerChrysler) but close enough to make it work.
>Either of those Japanese companies could do it if they had to, VW maybe
>but I fear their unfamiliarity with the hybrid drive might make it more
>difficult for them.
>
>If we allow unusual time or expenditure, *any* of the big international
>companies could do it.  You just can't say that about electric or fuel
>cell for an affordable and livable car.
>
>Dustin
>
>  
>
I found this on GM's website.  They mentioned in the article that they
choose a diesel hybrid because it seems more marketable in Europe.  Does
Europe have more demand for diesel than the US?  If so, I wonder why?  I
know Europe has higher standards on diesel fuel than the US did but I
think the new ULS should bring us in line with them.  Maybe by the end
of 2006 the will see more of these kinds of cars aimed at the US.

http://www.gm.com/company/gmability/adv_tech/100_news/astra_011005.html

If I did my math right, thats 152 MPG and "62 mph = less than 8
seconds".  Where can I buy one?