See All 10 Hybrid Cars on the Market Today, All In One Place: Hybridfest 2006! Also See the New Plug-In Hybrids and a Working General Motors EV1 Electric Car!

June 18, 2006 (PRLEAP.COM) Business News
MADISON, WI—There are no easy answers to American oil dependency and global warming issues. However, America has the ability and the technology to begin addressing these urgent issues immediately. Hybridfest 2006 will show consumers how hybrid technology can impact their personal lives, the environment, and the global oil economy—right now. Come to Hybridfest 2006, and see how hybrid vehicles can help the U.S. build a secure energy future.

More and more hybrid vehicles are entering the marketplace. Consumers need the knowledge to make the best decision to suit their needs. Hybridfest 2006 will display almost every hybrid vehicle currently available to the public. Most will also be available for test drives. You’ll also see new models not yet in the showroom. Auto experts and real-life owners will be on hand to answer your questions on the benefits of hybrid vehicles.

Attendees will see the progression of the EV (electric vehicle) to the HEV (hybrid electric vehicle) to the PHEV (plug-in hybrid electric vehicle) at Hybridfest 2006.

Vehicles on display at Hybridfest 2006 include:

General Motors EV1: Long thought gone, this all-electric 1997 EV1 “Patriot Car” from GM was reconstructed by the Challenge X crew at UW-Madison. It is one of the few drivable EV1s in existence today.

Chevrolet Equinox Diesel Hybrid Electric SUV: This vehicle is University of Wisconsin Hybrid Electric Vehicle Team’s entry in the nationwide Challenge X competition for 2006. This HEV can also run on 20% biodiesel fuel.

Hymotion Plug-In Toyota Prius: Coming to us from Canada, this PHEV uses lithium ion battery technology and a charger powered by a household AC plug to increase mileage to more than 100 MPG.

MIMA Honda Insight: This HEV uses the Modified Integrated Motor Assist system designed by Mike Dabrowski, and allows the driver to make decisions about electric power needs, thus raising the potential for better fuel economy and performance. Mike is also working on plug-in capabilities.

Saturn VUE Green Line: Even though this all-new 2007 hybrid will not be released until later this summer, Hybridfest is pleased to have two Saturn VUE Green Lines available. Hybridfest will be the first time ever that consumers will have the chance to experience these hybrid electric SUVs.

Honda: The complete line of all HEVs, including the Insight, Civic Hybrid, and Accord Hybrid, will be on display.
-continues on next page-

Toyota: The complete line of HEVs, including the Prius, Highlander Hybrid, and Camry Hybrid, will be on display.

Ford: Escape Hybrid

Mercury: Mariner Hybrid

Lexus: RX400h

Plus, there will be many other owner-modified vehicles on display as part of the Hybridfest Auto Show.

Hybridfest 2006 will be held in Madison, WI, on Saturday July 22, 2006, from 9 A.M. to 5 P.M. on the grounds of the Alliant Energy Center, as part of the Dane County Fair. There will be hybrid electric vehicles from all over the U.S. and Canada on display. Hybridfest activities are free and open to the public, with free parking.

Attendees will be able to:
• test drive hybrid vehicles
• meet auto dealers
• view interactive exhibits
• listen to industry and environmental experts
• talk with hybrid owners

Registered Hybridfest attendees and enthusiasts will have access to special activities that include:

• the Hybridfest MPG Challenge
• seminars on advanced driving techniques, current and future hybrid technology
• seminars on global warming and sustainable energy
• awards dinner with keynote speaker
• discounted hotel rate

Pre-registration is $25. For more information, or to register before July 12, visit hybridfest.com.

Hybridfest, Inc. is a non-profit organization run entirely by volunteers. Hybridfest promotes awareness and understanding of hybrid electric vehicles and their positive impact on the environment.
-30-