Toyota has acquired authorization from the government to begin a proof examination of the plug-in hybrid vehicle on public roads in Japan. Unlike other hybrids, the plug-in hybrid has batteries which can be charged using household electricity enabling frequent use of electric only mode saving petrol. Toyota said it sees plug-in hybrids as a "promising technology" for harnessing electricity as a power source for automobiles. I don't see this as a clean energy source as the electricity in the power grid mostly comes from a coal, oil or nuclear power plant.
(More pics after the jump)