More people are ready, willing and able to buy and drive electric cars than previously believed, say UC Davis researchers. Contrary to auto industry pundits, who have envisioned the market as premium-priced longer-range electric cars for environmentally motivated consumers, cheaper cars that run 50 to 100 miles between recharges serve most people's commuting, shopping and chauffeuring needs. Adapting to electric cars apparently requires little change in travel for households with two or more cars, according to the recent survey of 100 current electric vehicle owners and in-depth interviews with an additional 50 households. "In our studies, people are learning for the first time how little driving range they need on a daily basis," says postdoctoral researcher Kenneth Kurani. Presented at a national transportation meeting, these findings are the latest results from an ongoing three-year project. "Our research shows there is a sizeable market for electric cars," says project manager Tom Turrentine.