Nothing too controversial here. GAO has apparently issued a report on tax payer investment in Advanced Batteries. Here is a summary by one observer. The cost appears to be in the Billion dollar range, which is not too ridiculus. This does not include tax credits to Plug_in buyers. Tax Payer Investment in Advanced Batteries | Alternative Energy Stocks
I think the Federal government put the money in the wrong hands. If they put same amount to stimulate the demands, there will be a lot of EV and plug-in vehicles on the road today. 1.3 billion equals to 87,000 Chevy Volt with $15,000 cash rebate, or 100,000 Plug-in supply kits, or 325,000 Enginer Kits. And A123 will be very busy instead of going into bankruptcy. The demand drives the business. Building up supply alone won't work. It is economy 101.
I don't really think higher plug-in subsidies are the answer, but a rebate cutting the cost at the dealership, instead of a tax credit in the future might help that program. The commercialization money seems to have been a waste as has most of the stimulus funds. A123 and ener1 hit bankruptcy. LG Chem is still shipping their batteries from korea.
They also need to support charging stations. Without these, demand for plug-in vehicles will rise slowly in all states but CA.
