According to an official press release on the subject, the Prius has underwent modifications by the Advanced Vehicle Research Center - which turned the car into a plug-in hybrid - and has already started its adventure on June 1.
The journey started in North Palm Beach, Florida and will end in Washington, D.C. on June 11, if everything goes according to the plan. The car won't make any stops beside the mandatory ones required to recharge the batteries.
This story might sound a little silly for some of you, considering the fact that hybrids are usually designed for urban driving and aimed at people who won't travel more than 40 miles per day. However, the main reason of this test is "to demonstrate that hybrid electric cars are well suited to drivers whose daily commute less than 40 miles, freeing them from the worry of ever-escalating gas prices," as the press statement reads.
"Upon its arrival in Washington, D.C., it will be verified that the fuel tank has not been opened and the trip has been completed on one tank of gas. The Electric Green Machine is expected to be near Raleigh on June 8, 2009," AVRC explained.
Further information are likely to be released so we'll keep you posted on the Prius adventure.
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