I guess you didn't read my entire post. There are THREE SUV's hitting the market over the next 12 months that will have hybrid powertrains in them. The first one out will be the Lexus RX400h. It uses the exact same hybrid system as what is used in the Prius, with the obvious exceptions of higher powered motors, a V6 engine, a second traction motor for AWD operation, and a larger battery pack.

The Toyota Highlander hybrid is the second one. It will use the exact same system verbatim as what is in the soon to be released Lexus.

Finally will be Ford. They will be the first US automaker to offer a hybrid system, and will introduce it in the Escape SUV. It's design is so close to the Toyota system, that they bought licensing from Toyota to avoid any potential for lawsuits. It will be out this fall.

Both of the Toyota systems will be advertising V8 towing capacity, while still having a marked improvement in fuel mileage. Both Toyota systems are looking at an estimated 27 mpg and up, with their non hybrid cousins lucky to hit 20. Not bad for systems calibrated for power over economy.

The Ford Escape is estimating 40 mpg in the city. This is around double the ratings for the four cylinder non hybrid model.

Even with prices not yet set, waiting lists for pre orders are already stacking up for these vehicles.

Finally, Toyota is on schedule to have hybrid powertrains in ALL models by 2010.

The market clearly IS asking for these vehicles. We do not need more theft of people's income by the government to curb fuel consumption. We simply need QUALITY vehicles on the market that offer the better fuel economy, while still offering the other creature comforts that the buying public wants. They ARE coming, and it's only a matter of time.