University of California Transportation Center

This study found that plug-in hybrids can significantly reduce emissions and energy consumption in urban settings where average trip distances are fairly short. The ability of plug-in hybrids to deliver environmental benefits will rely heavily on initiatives that reduce charging times and provide wider opportunities for charging outside the home. in this regard, we recommend enacting policies that 1) encourage affordable conversion from 120-volt to 240-volt charging at home and 2) provide for installation of 240-volt charging facilities at public and private parking facilities adjacent to major activity centers, like shopping malls and rail transit stations.