Exploiting vested interests.

I just found a fascinating article in the WSJ about the fact that electricity companies are considering a big buy of electric cars for there staff. Apparently electricity companies who stand to profit from growing electricity demand and greater stability--are considering giving the nascent industry a boost.

Utilities would take possession of vehicles when they debut, likely in 2010 or 2011 if development efforts stay on track for cars such as the Chevy Volt, Saturn Vue or Ford Escape.

"If we get enough of us together, we could put in a very large order and maybe a big down payment," says Dick Kelly, chief executive of Xcel Energy in Minneapolis.

"I would do it," says Gale Klappa, CEO of Wisconsin Energy, adding that his utility has about 3,000 vehicles in its fleet and replaces 20% each year.

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