Google - they of the all-knowing search and the more apropros RechargeIT plug-in hybrid project - wants to see your video. The Google.org project will be hosting a conference in Washington, D.C. at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in mid-June and is looking for homebrew videos that either a.) make a strong case for buying a plug-in electric vehicle or b.) explain why your own plug-in car or truck is the best ride. Don't get too preachy or wordy, as all the videos in the "Why I Want to Drive a Plug-In" contest need to max out at 90 seconds.

The videos must be uploaded to YouTube by June 4 and the "most informative, original and funniest videos" will be shown at the conference and will be featured on an interactive map on Google.org's RechargeIT website. If you can't make it to D.C., the conference will be webcast here on the 11th and the 12th.

[Source: Google]

Since last year, Saab and Volvo have been working together to develop a plug-in hybrid (PHEV). Volvo officially announced the project in March 2008, and showed us pictures of the ReCharge concept on the road. Those were nice to see. The Invest In Sweden Agency will be updating visitors to the Advanced Automotive Battery and Ultracapacitor Conference and Symposia in Tampa, Florida (which starts May 12) on the status of plug-in and electric vehicles in Sweden. The focus will be on Swedish hybrid technology projects, including what's happening with the Swedish Hybrid Vehicle Centre (SHC). This is where the Volvo-Saab - along with the Vattenfall energy company, ETC Battery, FuelCells Sweden and some parts of the Swedish government - project is taking place. The SHC will be funded with $40 million over five years. More details after the break.