Is it only a matter of time before ...

... we have the flux capacitor?

Electrostatic capacitors.

Electrostatic capacitors store charge on the surface of two conducting plates separated by an insulating layer. Their advantage is that they can store and release energy much faster than batteries.

That makes them ideal candidates to replace batteries in devices that require speedy discharge of power, such as electric cars. However, electric capacitors can hold only limited charge. Supercapacitors that store charge chemically as well as electrically have greater capacities, but perform only as well as the best batteries.

Now a prototype capacitor has been made that manages to store power as densely as a supercapacitor, but deliver it at speeds comparable with electrostatic capacitors.

If I want a camera ...

... I'll use a camera. If I want a phone, I'll use a phone. I won't use my camera to make a call. I won't use my phone to take a picture. Capeesh?

Nothing is simple anymore, is it? Besides, these extra "upgrades" to devices drain their batteries that much quicker.

While cell phone talk times generally range from 3 to 7 hours, once you add in extra duties, such as Internet use and video, all bets are off when it comes to figuring out battery life.

But does it come with batteries?

Something to think about when you're planning on buying that used hybrid. The battery might need replacement sooner than you might want.

Hanson says today's Prius batteries are designed to last "the life of the car," which Toyota defines as 180,000 miles.

... and ...

For those unlucky few who have to replace their own batteries, the cost is coming down. On June 1 Honda is slashing the cost of its batteries from $3,400 (excluding installation) to as low as $1,968 on an Insight or as high as $2,440 on an Accord hybrid. Toyota also plans to substantially cut battery prices, which now stand at $3,000 (excluding installation), down from $5,500 on the original Prius.

Installation runs around $900, so the total cost for the Honda will be about $4,500. Not insignificant.