Plug-in, we have the technology,
the NiMH powered RAV4 EV is the proof.

Every time a GM spokes person tells the media that the Chevy Volt can‘t be put unto production until we have a breakthrough in battery technology, the public is being misinformed.  The media is our watchdog, responsible for asking the questions necessary so that their readership understand the issues affecting our nation. An informed readership can then vote for those candidates that support the solutions that are in the best interest of our nation.
When the media accepts GM’s misrepresentation of the facts, they let their readers down.  The fact is that Toyota manufactured 1500 RAV4 EVs in response to the California Air Resources Board (CARB) Zero Emissions Mandate starting in the late 90’s.  These cars are still on the road today with their original Panasonic EV-95 NiMH (Nickel Metal Hydride) batteries.  Many of these cars have over 100,000 miles.  This information is an historical fact.

An informed media would know the historical facts and ask the obvious question.  If Panasonic made the EV-95 NiMH battery and Toyota used it in 1500 RAV4 EVs which are still running with the original batteries after ten years; “Why does GM need a breakthrough in battery technology before it can produce the Volt?”  “Why doesn’t GM use the Panasonic EV-95 NiMH battery technology?”

Not only does the media not ask the question, when reminded by email of the facts, they ignore the email, and continue to print GM’s endless comments about the need for a battery technology breakthrough, without asking the tough questions.

NiMH battery technology is mature and proven.  Lithium Ion battery technology, by comparison, is in its infancy, as an EV battery, and as yet unproven over time.  We are promised a five year life by Tesla and AC Propulsion.  Both are currently putting, vehicles powered by Lithium Batteries, on the road.  At a  $25,000 battery replacement cost, these batteries are not attractive for most consumers.

GM also produced an NiMH powered EV starting in the late 90’s.  They held a controlling interest in the company holding the patents for NiMH technology.  GM crushed the cars and sold their interest in the NiMH technology to Chevron.  Chevron sued Panasonic and Toyota for $30 million.  As a result, Panasonic stopped production of the EV-95 NiMH battery.  Consequently Toyota stopped making the RAV4 EV.  This is a sequence of events and not an explanation of motives. Draw your own conclusions.

Oil prices are rising along with everything else.  We need the batteries and the cars pictured on this page to help reduce our dependency on foreign oil.  This is a National Security issue.  Watch “Who Killed The Electric Car?” (Available at Blockbuster, NetFlix and Amazon) and be informed and proactive.  The future of our economy depends on you and others to be informed on this issue. 

Visit www.evprogress.org for more information this important issue.