UC Davis Professor helps leapfrog Plug-in Hybrids

Dr. Andrew Frank of University of California, Davis has achieved a major breakthrough in the field of plug-in hybrid electric vehicle technology through his research of over 30 years. Dr. Frank, a Professor of Mechanical Engineering created his first “plug-in” hybrid in the 90’s and is considered the father of this technology.

UC Davis received a grant from the California Energy Commission to study and further develop the plug-in hybrid technology. The technological advances made during the past 30 years have now been licensed by Efficient Drivetrains Inc., a company that hopes to commercialize these technologies and bring them to market in a quick turnaround.

Given that the majority of US commuters travel less than 40 miles each way, the plug-in hybrid is going to provide a huge advantage as they travel about 40-60 miles on electric power alone. Companies such as Google are already providing electric outlets to their employees in the parking garages in anticipation of these technologies coming to fruition.

The world as we know it will change forever when we eliminate our dependence on foreign oil - Way to go Dr. Frank!