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The Australian research organisation CSIRO is launching a three-month trial of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs).

The trial will see staff from energy distributor SP AusNet use a modified PHEV for their daily commute and other journeys.

The vehicles have been adapted by CSIRO engineers to carry a 30Ah NiMH battery and a battery charger to allow the vehicle to be charged up directly from the grid or on-sire renewables. The modifications will also enable the researcher to look at how PHEVs could be used as a ‘mobile battery’ that can be integrated and used in the home.

“When not needed, the parked car in the driveway could potentially become a large battery store and energy source for the house, running appliances or storing off-peak or surplus electricity generated from on-site renewable generators, such as solar panels,” explains researcher Phillip Paevere.

The trial will also investigate the potential impact of widespread use of PHEVs on electricity demand and the network.

For further information:
www.csiro.au/resources/Plug-In-Hybrid-Electric-Vehicle.html

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