More people are ready, willing and able to buy and drive electriccars than previously believed, researchers at the UC Davis Instituteof Transportation Studies reported at a recent national transportation meeting. Contrary to auto industry pundits, who have envisioned consumers wanting premium-priced longer-range electric cars, cheaper cars that run 50 to 100 miles between recharges will likely serve most people's commuting, shopping and chauffeuring needs. "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. "Our research shows there is a sizeable market for competitively priced electric cars using today's technology," says project manager Tom Turrentine. The institute researchers will provide an update on this ongoing three-year project at the California Air Resources Board public review of the low-emission vehicle program, scheduled to begin May 12.