[elhigh]

This rig kind of invites the Volt series hybrid design.

Small diesel powered generator under the hood where the old engine used to live. Modest array of batteries filling up the rest of the engine bay and perhaps a few in the trunk. Where the transmission used to live, a single- or two-speed box stepping down the high-rev output of a handsome, torquey AC motor.

The go pedal doesn't talk to the engine at all. Only the voltmeter on the battery pack talks to the engine, revving up and loading the alternator as necessary. The go pedal only controls the variable frequency AC motor controller. Program in some modest limits and you'll have a few miles of no-engine electric-only cruising, hit the highway and ramp up the amps and the engine kicks in to keep the batteries hot and provide extra juice to the motor. Bob's your uncle and off you go.