Emerging Technologies

Near the turn of the millennium, Toyota and Honda started mass-producing hybrid (i.e., gas and electric) vehicles. In 2012, the following gas-free, 100% electric vehicles were produced by major auto manufacturers: Nissan Leaf (99 MPGe), Ford Focus Electric (105 MPGe), and Mitsubishi i (112 MPGe). Note: Miles per gallon of gasoline equivalent (MPGe) is a measure used to compare energy usage in advanced technology vehicles to the miles per gallon (MPG) rating in conventional vehicles. The interest in developing energy efficient vehicles also led to the creation of new auto manufacturers (e.g., Tesla Motors).