Dave <dm@nospam.com> wrote:
> small 4. Their IMA design uses a very small motor which enables
> fuel shutoff, some torque assist, engine operation at more
> efficient operating points. But doesn't provide as much power &
> torque enhancement as the Prius or Escape.

I agree with your description of my Civic IMA.
The IMA is a 15HP "boost" to a puny gas engine, allowing reasonable
performance from a high mileage gas miser. It is smooth, but not overly
powerful. The 94HP electric motor in the Escape is one horse less than the
gas+electric in my Civic. I drove the Escape on Saturday, and I'm shopping
for a price to order one this week. Orders are bein taken for delivery in
January, given current allocations and waiting lists.

> Yes, I do expect that hybrid costs will come down with economies
> of scale and technology advances. But right now the battery
> supply (and cost and technology) is probably the limiting factor.

Batteries arent't terribly expensive. My IMA is 120 NiMH D-Cells.
The Ford Escape is 150 NiMH D-Cells. That's less than $1000 retail.

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Clarence A Dold - Hidden Valley (Lake County) CA USA 38.8-122.5