In the future, our cars could feature an optional on board genset which is a small internal combustion engine coupled to an electric generator. The genset starts either automatically or when desired by the driver to begin charging the batteries. The automatic function activates when the batteries have drained to a set level. The driver may activate the genset any time he or she feels it is appropriate based on present and predicted driving conditions. 

 

Gensets may be fitted to run from a variety of fuels including regular gasoline, ethanol, diesel, biodiesel and liquid petroleum gas.