More mainstream manufacturers are investigating the possibility of selling electric cars on the U.S. market.  Autoblog reports that Mercedes "is developing a mid- or large-size electric-powered luxury vehicle."  Benz Insider adds, "The "revolutionary" vehicle will be an all electric mid-size to large luxury vehicle, and will feature a lithium-ion battery that can be recharged two ways. The first option will be with a direct plug-in, and the other option will be a small dynamo like device that will charge the battery while the car is driving."

Motor Trend reports that Subaru will begin testing its three-door electric hatchback, the R1e, in New York this summer.  "The R1e uses 'fast-charge‘ lithium ion battery technology that allows for quick charges that do not decrease battery life, Subaru says."  

Edmunds Inside Line reports, "Volvo Car and Saab Automobile are joining with the Swedish government to launch an R&D venture aimed at making plug-in hybrid technology marketable."   The group will test plug-in hybrids based on Volvo's C30. 

New Car Net reports, "German manufacturer BMW could launch an all-new environmental brand within the next seven years."  The company is "working on a car specifically designed for driving in cities," known internally as "project i."  In announcing the project, BMW chairman Norbert Reithofer "hinted at a battery-powered car," which was not the first hint this year of an electric BMW on the way.

While the electrics aren't yet ready for sale, you can research your low carbon footprint options with U.S. News' rankings of hybrid vehicles.

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