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ELECTRIC cars are the future.

That, at least, is the message automakers are sending to consumers as they trumpet big plans for cars that can bypass the gas pump.

Of course, backers of electric vehicles, or E.V.
But with a gallon of premium gas topping $3 on average, and as carmakers and entrepreneurs pour money into the latest generation of electric cars, the prospects appear brighter.

Trading the internal combustion engine for batteries could bring well-publicized advantages: reducing pollution, raising mileage, promoting energy independence. E.V.