VTRUX Plug-In Hybrid Truck Doubles As Emergency Power Generator
The new VTRUX plug-in hybrid truck from Via Motors seems to have a lot of upside — a large and sturdy body, good hauling power, handy 120- and 240-volt power outlets, and even the ability to function as an emergency power generator, thanks to its 300-kilowatt motor and 150-kilowatt generator.
The emergency power generator abilities were recently unveiled by VTRUX at San Francisco’s recent Plug-in Electric Vehicle Collaborative event, sponsored by PG&E.
Autoblog Green has more: “The VTRUX is based on the Chevrolet Silverado and was displayed at the event alongside models such as the Ford C-Max Energi plug-in hybrid and a Chevrolet Volt extended-range plug-in. Via first showed off its pickup (and SUV and van models with similar powertrains) at the Detroit Auto Show in early 2012, and added its heavier-duty XTRUX line earlier this year. At the time, Lutz said the beasts could achieve fuel efficiency levels of more than 100 miles per gallon.”
Sounds like a useful vehicle! Good fuel efficiency, a good size, electrical outlets for tool use, and the ability to function effectively as an emergency power generator — so long as the price isn’t too high, it’s hard to see how the vehicle wouldn’t find itself a niche.
But there may be some holdup in that regard: “Nothing’s set in stone yet, but the SUV (Suburban) may cost around $70,000 while the truck could be a bit more expensive: $79,000. The cost may come down a bit by the time private customers get a chance to buy any of these work vehicles in 2013.”
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