Curtis CCR wrote:
It is my understanding that research on those vehicles has shown that their
production results in far more energy use than the production of standard
vehicles.

You must be referring to that silly article that circulated last year
saying that Hummers were more eco friendly and the real cost of a
Prius, over its lifespan, was something like $300,000. It was BS.

Where do the chemicals that comprise the battery cells some from and how
do they get into the battery cell? What is the effect, cost, of the
mining of the component chemicals? What is the effect, cost, of the
materials used and needing disposal during the battery manufacturing
process?

I am not saying that people shouldn't drive Hummers - I am a Prius
owner that also drives a American made "crossover vehicle" that
typically gets less than 20mpg. You want to drive a Hummer? Fine
with me! I can't tow a boat with my Prius.

What is the cost of a new battery pack for your Prius?