Bright Automotive upgrades Idea performance

ANDERSON, Ind. - Anderson-based Bright Automotive says it has improved the performance of its plug-in hybrid vehicle, the Idea.

On Tuesday, Bright said the vehicle can now travel 40 miles using electric power only in "EV mode," thanks to a new 13 kilowatt-hour battery pack. After the 40-mile threshold, the Idea will travel 36 miles per gallon in "standard hybrid" mode.

"The Idea enables fleet owners to go even farther in EV mode, creating greater cost and environmental impact savings," said Bright President and CEO John Waters. "Congress and the administration are demanding change in the auto industry."

Bright estimates that the Idea, which is designed for the commercial fleet industry, can save operators 18 cents per mile, reduce gasoline use by 1,500 gallons per year and cut carbon dioxide emissions by 16 tons per yer.

Bright has applied for $450 million in low-interest loans through the U.S. Department of Energy's Advanced Technology Vehicles Manufacturing Loan Program.