Area legislators learned more about the Consumers Energy plug-in hybrid Toyota Prius and even one got to take it for a spin.
Sen. Steve Sodders, D-State Center, Rep. Mark Smith, D-Marshalltown, Rep. Annette Sweeney, R-Alden, and Sen. Rob Hogg, D-Cedar Rapids, all visited Consumers Energy Thursday to learn more about the car and renewable energy.
Brian Heithoff, CEO of Consumers Energy, said Hogg approached him about having a day where the legislators could learn about the car.
"I really see plug-in technology as the next major step toward energy independence," Hogg said.
Sodders was behind the wheel on one test drive and said it drives just like his Prius at home. He mentioned plug-in cars can help reduce America's dependence on foreign oil.
Sweeney was surprised at what she did not hear during the ride.
"I didn't know it didn't make any noise," she said.
The car is equipped with a special battery that allows it to run on electricity up to about 35 to 40 miles an hour when the gas engine kicks in.
Consumers staff members have been involved with testing the car since they acquired in last fall. Testing has shown gas mileage to be in the 60 miles per gallon range.
"It's been an exciting project," Heithoff said.
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Contact Andrew Potter at 641-753-6611 or apotter@timesrepublican.com
