Written for students, entrepreneurs, and general readers, this history of electric and hybrid cars spans the 19th century, when the electric 'women's car' was available, to today's 'green' microbial fuel cells, hydrogen refueling and electric recharging infrastructures, and high-performance hybrids and electrics. An introduction overviews the birth and development of the automobile industry, and chapters chronicle the evolution of the electric vehicle and related politics, environmental issues, technology, and marketing, concentrating on the US, with some material in UK, Asian, Scandinavian, and Western European vehicle development. Material on technology is written to be accessible to general readers. The book includes numerous historical and contemporary b&w photos, historical advertisements, and illustrations of batteries, fuel cells, and chassis. A list of acronyms and an annotated bibliography are also included. This second edition reflects the worldwide movement away from fossil fuels. Anderson is a pharmacist and researcher. Annotation ©2010 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)