At 05:22 PM 4/13/2009, Jim Sanford wrote:

All: The other day, somebody decided he needed to get thru an intersection ahead of me . . . . so, in search of a replacement chariot to support the mobile equipment. Considering:

Toyota Highlander hybrid
Saturn VUE Hybrid

Have read the Consumer Reports rap on all.

QUESTION: Does anybody have any experience or guidance regarding: -- problems installing HF/VHF/UHF radios in either vehicle -- problems with noise FROM the hybrid equipment

I remember that some years ago, all the Japanese manufacturers would void your warranty if you installed two-way radio equipment. That appears to be no longer true, as long as "properly installed" (defined as adequately fused).

All experiences welcome.

Thanks for bandwidth.

73, Jim wb4gcs@amsat.org

Jim,

Excellent question, considering the number of hybrid cars (and all-electric cars soon to be offered in 2010). I wonder if the electric motors have brushes and if they are RFI bypassed? I do not have any info to provide, but certainly interested in what you find out. I am watching the Chrystler Electric Town & Country van to be offered in 2010 with 40-mpg performance. It runs with electric motors 100% and has gasoline generator for extended distance driving.

73, Ed - KL7UW