Nissan has the Leaf coming out in a few months-
It is an all electric-battery-car with a claimed range of 80 miles between 4-8 hour recharges.
It won't have an 80 mile range-probably more like 50-60 in cold months- but plenty enough for around town use.
It will be a hefty $25,000 with the $7500 Tax Credit($32000 before credit).
20,000 people have sign up to reserve one- sure as heck not me-mainly affluent greenies-urban and Suburban will buy then as second cars.
The Volt is a different story-$32,000 after the TC- with a 40 mile plug in range, but unlimited range on the gasoline engine(acts as a generator to power the electric motor). Actual all electric range will be more like 25-30 miles in cold climates-plenty enough for most trips. Recharge is quicker since it has a smaller capacity batter pack.
They are a good start-not money makers-but a good start.
Yes, I suspect in 15-20 years most cars will be hybrid electric with some being all electric battery powered. It takes about 500-600 lbs of lithium ion batteries to get the 80 mile range now-maybe $10,000 or more just for the battery pack.
DIY folks have been getting 100 mile ranges for 20 years by stuffing 1500- lbs of lead acid batteries in tiny gutted late 80's Civics etc with small electric motors(30-40 hp or so).
Charlie