The first new electric vehicle you'll be able to buy is likely not to come from one of the big auto manufacturers. One of the first new electric vehicles coming out will be a mid size sports utility truck (SUT) being introduced by Phoenix Motorcars in California.

These vehicles will be a very no compromise vehicle for someone who wants a zero-emission vehicle (ZEV):

The range on a full battery charge is approximately 130 miles. The manufacturer hopes to extend the range to 250 miles with an expansion pack.

The SUT can be recharged in as little as 10 minutes.

It can cruise on the freeway at up to 95 m.p.h. while carrying 5 passengers and a full payload.

"Filling up" costs less than $3.00 in electricity.

A key to the truck's performance breakthrough is a very advanced battery; the NanoSafe battery from Altair. It is lithium based, but uses a different technology than laptop computer batteries, so heat buildup in the battery is reduced.

The manufacturer plans on building about 6,000 trucks in 2008. Initial sales will be to fleet purchasers. Later, consumers will be able to buy them. Through unique provisions in the California Air Recourses Board (CARB) to encourage early adopters of ZEV vehicles, each truck sold could earn "credits" that Phoenix Motorcars can resell to other car manufacturers that don't sell enough clean vehicles in California. For this reason, it's possible the truck will only be for sale in California, at least initially. However, we will all benefit from this new vehicle. It should cause consumers to put considerable pressure on large manufacturers to sell fully electric vehicles.

Learn more:

phoenixmotorcars.com

Video from Popular Mechanics

Altair Nano

Ed Begley Jr. at Specialty Equipment Market Association trade show (QuickTime movie)

Video car demonstration from ZEV show in California (QuickTime movie)