Concept cars go electric at Detroit auto show

A surprising number of electric concept cars were on display at the 2009 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, including cars from GM, Chrysler, Mercedes-Benz, Mini and Smart.

Some of these concept cars are currently on the road, being tested for eventual mass production.

Shown above is the Chrysler 200C EV.

Chrysler gave its electric powertrain a brand name, 'Envi', at the auto show, and used it in a few concept cars, such as this sedan, based on the 300C platform. This series hybrid drive lets the car go 40 miles on electricity, with an engine generating more energy for additional range when needed.