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Plug in hybrids seem like a good move environmentally. There you get the dual engine, shut-off during stop and regenerative braking as well as being able to charge up the battery off mains overnight.
Shouldn't using energy from the 'mains' be more efficient given that even less environmentally friendly power plants are more efficeint than an ICE (particularly petrol one)? Plus, depending on where you live, that power can be from Wind, Hydro, Solar or Nuclear.
I do have a question about the petrol engine 'shutt off' ability of a hybrid when you're stoped or going slowly. Does a control system monitor the temperature of the engine and the emission control systems? If they get too cold, their performance would be likely to drop and end up being worse for the environment as well as a potential for thermal stress/lubrication issues.
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