Toyota Plans Hybrid That Runs on Batteries USA Today, 19 Jul 2006 by Ken Thomas Toyota sees a future in plugging in vehicles -- instead of simply pulling in for gas. Already a leader in the hybrid market with its Prius sedan, Toyota Motors plans to develop a hybrid vehicle that will run locally on batteries charged by a typical 120-volt outlet before switching over to a gasoline engine for longer hauls. The technology is far from being ready -- and there's no timeline for when such cars might be offered for sale. Still, the automaker is taking a serious look at another idea aimed at reducing motorists' dependence on gasoline: flexible fuel vehicles capable of running on E85, an alternative fuel made of 85% ethanol. Read more