Updated: 07/25/2009 1:48 AM KSTP.com
By: LUKE GARRISON, WEB Producer
Minn. College Students Invent 'Super Hybrid' Vehicle
Students at Dakota County Technical College have produced a vehicle that has three times better gas mileage than any vehicle currently on the market.
The vehicle is modeled after the Toyota Prius, which has a hybrid gas-electric engine. The newly invented vehicle is called a "plug-in" or "super" hybrid, which means all one has to do is plug the vehicle in after driving it and then it will recharge its 300-volt, 200-pound lithium battery.
After numerous tests, students and teachers say they have confirmed that the super hybrid is capable of getting a stunning 170 miles to the gallon.
One of the students working on the vehicle was originally in disbelief of its performance.
"At first, I didn't believe it, then it started to be more consistent, I was shocked completely," said Ben Studley.
The super hybrid could set a new standard for the automobile industry, but don't expect to see it on the market anytime real soon. Experts do say, however, that consumers may see similar vehicles within the next 18 months.
The students at Dakota County Technical College, along with teachers Tim McClusky and Mark Hickman, were able to work on the vehicle thanks to a Minnesota Department of Commerce grant, which educates students about new technologies.
Five other schools were given grants in Minnesota, with the idea that giving students these experiences will be beneficial, especially when these technologies come into use in the near future.
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