Hybrid concept car promises better mileage, zero emissions

Valence Technology Inc., a developer of large-format Lithium ion batteries, and EnergyCS, which specializes in integration control systems, have jointly developed a concept plug-in hybrid vehicle based on the Toyota Prius. The firms plan to unveil the vehicle at the 21st Worldwide International Battery, Hybrid and Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle Symposium & Exhibition in Monaco next week.

Valence president Stephan Godevais said the concept vehicle is powered by a Valence U-Charge system, which is based on technology that replaces toxic heavy metals with phosphates, resulting in greater chemical stability, compared with oxide-based Li-ion batteries, and higher energy density. He said the vehicle “allows significant amounts of zero-emission driving,” and boasts fuel efficiency as high as 180 miles per gallon for an average commute of 50 miles to 60 miles per day.