Joe_Black, would this be similar to what the US Army is doing for tanks? If you've got the inclination, now is the time. You don't even have to build the system, just get a patent and sell the idea. I suspect it would cost you about $20,000 for a patent but it sounds like a million dollar idea.

Toyota's hybrid system has been in development for over 10 years with production cars on the road since 1997. (Yes, that's eight years of real-world, showroom quality vehicles). This isn't new technology, it's just finally coming into its own.

I believe it's the next big thing. When I test drove the new Prius, I felt awfully smug sitting in traffic with no engine running and the A/C and stereo running no problem. The H2 next to me probably burned a quart of gasoline just waiting to get through the light! I sat through three changes of the light, creeping forward on electric power, without the engine ever coming on.

I think the smug feeling will continue. I can't wait to pull up to the pump and fill up for under $25 (and go farther) while the Hummers and Yukons pays $60 or more.

Get this: If you fill your Hummer H2 at today's price with Premium at $3.25 a gallon in Bridgeport, CA you will pay:

$104

Downright scary. That's a Ben Franklin AND a Starbucks!

Not for me. Yes, I will still own my Trooper, but I will drive it only when I really need to/ want to. For hauling, towing, road trips, really bad weather, etc.

I predict the SUV craze will die a very, very quick death by next summer. (When it sinks in that these high gas prices aren't temporary). The next vehicle that stands out on the road will have big batteries and smug drivers.

Nate