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Just got my email. I will be there :woot:

I'm going!
:) :) :)

Hi Sledge:

___I will but am still trying to work a deal to drive an 08 FWD FEH in the FE Challenge.

___Good Luck

___Wayne

I'll be there

I'll be there. I will also be in the MPG challenge.

Me too (though it's not far to go :D). I need some redemption from last years MPG challenge. ;)

Debbie,
Will you be competing in the Hybridfest MPG Challenge (http://www.hybridfest.com/MPG.htm)on Friday afternoon?

The goal: Achieve the best percentage over the EPA's estimates for your vehicle, as compared to other cars within your division

You would be in Division 5:
Mariner Hybrid
Escape Hybrid
Highlander Hybrid
RX 400h
VUE Green Line Hybrid
Silverado Hybrid

I just registered.

WHAAAT! Registration is open?

WHAAAT! Registration is open?

Tom,

It's a lot better than the Pikes Peak Marathon - they have to redo that and www.active.com (http://www.active.com) made a big contribution to the race for the mess-up.

Besides, at HybridFest, it's not going to fillup and force Eric to turn people away. :)

I'm going....I don't think my skills are up to a win in the challenge, but I'm glad to be someone's shotgun/navigator.

WHAAAT! Registration is open?

https://hybridfest.com/Registration2007.htm

If I can get in Friday, I want to improve on my 83mpg showing on my Insight...should be able to do at least 140mpg in the worst case.

The company with the plug-in Prius should run just to demonstrate what it can do.

I just registered myself and my wife and kids.

I won't be able to make it. I've got a friend's wedding to go to. It would be quite a long trek for me anyway.

I wish I could swing it. Oh the brains to pick and techniques to observe. But Madison is a long way away from Austin, and my 2 year old really cramps my style :)

Put me tentatively down for 2008.

I think it was 21 hours from Madison to Dallas, and you would have to add 5 hours.:eek:

Hi Efusco:

___I would be honored to be your navigator. As long as you don’t mind an instruction per second in full-blown hypermiler mode during the challenge :D

___Chuck, you know 150 + is accomplished now and if the weather cooperates, it’s in the bag ;)

___Mparrish, why not consider coming up with Chuck? That is if the wife is able to take care of the 2-year old for a weekend +? Chuck is a marathon man when it comes to driving.

___Good Luck

___Wayne

Mparrish, why not consider coming up with Chuck? That is if the wife is able to take care of the 2-year old for a weekend +? Chuck is a marathon man when it comes to driving.

I'm very open to this. Only down side for me is I'd have to borrow an Insight if we go to Madison in the Prius (although I'd love the experience). I better plan the trip to get a better idea of the time. The rount from Austin to Madison:


I35 from Austin to D/FW
Take I35W thru Fort Worth
Go to OKC
Take I44 thru eastern OK, St Louis
Take I55 from St Louis to Chicago
Take I94 to Madison

Hi Efusco:

___I would be honored to be your navigator. As long as you don’t mind an instruction per second in full-blown hypermiler mode during the challenge :D

___Good Luck

___Wayne
Thanks Wayne, I appreciate the sentiment if nothing else...it would be like Mario Andretti coaching me on a spin around the Brickyard!

Actually I didn't realize that the challenge was so early on Friday...I'm don't think I'll be up there that early, wasn't planning on arriving until late Friday....so I'll have to see.

www.mapblast.com (http://www.mapblast.com) actually has a different route that says Austin to Madison is 18 hours. It takes I35 from Austin to Dallas, then US 75, and I35 back in OK to Kansas City, thru Iowa to Madison. Less than 1200 miles.

I'm out of the challange for the same reason. I won't get up there until mid evening.

Chuck, since you are driving 1200 miles anyway, why not just swing down to Houston & Austin and pick up Dan & me? :)

Driving up with Chuck or others sounds like a lot of fun, but it will probably be difficult for me this year. I'm serious about 2008 and after though. My interest will only be increasing, just like everybody else.

One year out of college in '93, I actually drove from Chicago to Dallas in one day (to get back in time for a party.....gotta have priorities). I55 to I44 to US69 to US75. By the time I got there I really did need a beer.

This is going to be interesting.

Remember I have a two-seater Insight.

I need to get a better idea of how much time I will get off from work (would like Thursday afternoon, Fri, and Monday).

If Dan is coming along, that will complicate things, but it will make the driving easier for sure. It also eliminates the Insight.

My feeling right now is the more the merrier.

Let's see what Dan says.

If he does, then we could get 150mpg per guy. :)

I have a portable Magellan 360 Navigation if needed, but I don't have a cell phone.

Oh...we could meet in Mexia, Texas - home of Anna Nichole. :D

I'm going....I don't think my skills are up to a win in the challenge, but I'm glad to be someone's shotgun/navigator.I think I will compete in the MPG challenge this year but only if Eric opens a "Bicycle" division. :rolleyes:

With all the talk about hybrids and the MPG Challenge, let's not forget the REAL reason for getting together at Hybridfest:
:Banane35:

Oh, E100 :D

I'd love to do the Challenge and hang with, and learn from, you guys and gals. July's a busy month for me, though. I have work-related travel I may need to take the second week of July, and my fiancee's daughter and grandkids are in from France for most of the month. I expect we'll be doing the Family Thing with this new brood I'm marrying into.

Of course, more talk from Tony and Chuck like this ...

Oh, E100 :D (:D )

... and my mind could be changed! But only if the chemicals are on hand to formulate E20.

You could always bring your soon to be family to madison ;)

Hey Chuck, could you swing by Seattle, WA and pick me up too?? It's not that far out of your way.....

Just kidding, I'm planning on driving there myself. I enjoy long trips, it's just difficult getting time away from work. But I'm looking forward to it!

Chuck wrote:

want to improve on my 83mpg showing on my Insight...should be able to do at least 140mpg in the worst case


Wayne replied:

Chuck, you know 150 + is accomplished now and if the weather cooperates, it’s in the bag

My comment:

I understand where you guys are coming from, but given the rules for this year…. I don’t know ‘bout that 140/150.:cool:


Quote from the rules::flag:

http://www.hybridfest.com/MPG.htm

To rule out excessively slow driving (or speeding), maximum and minimum course time limits will be enforced. Drivers who stay at or near the posted speed limits will return well within these time limits. A maximum/minimum odometer distance reading will also be enforced, to ensure the course was followed.


Randall

Hi Randall:

___A high speed highway to heavy slow downs in rush hour traffic w/ a little back roads jaunt to make it interesting is my kind of challenge :D

___I was speaking with Billy today and he also doubted anyone would reach last years numbers but I have no doubt a few Insight’s will break 100. It has to be a tad easier then the cold, mountains and rain of the 2006 TDS with our hands tied behind our backs and is probably not much different then what we drive on a daily basis? If it’s a stop and crawl the whole way, the Prius’ are going to eat every body alive. If it’s a mostly open highway challenge and the winners number is based off a percentage of the EPA averages, I bet an HCH-I w/ a stick will finish out on top? If it’s pure FE, the Insight 5-speed can take on all comers in all but the absolute stop and crawls.

___Good Luck

___Wayne

You could always bring your soon to be family to madison ;)
Sorry Tom, I missed this earlier.

To be honest, I considered that ... ever so briefly. Then reality set in. Four kids 6 & under, 2 cars, 960 miles, 15 hours driving ... NOT! ;)

OK... I signed up.. appeared like there was a slot for the MPG challenge, but I can't confirm if I made it in time.

If I can't go, I'll have to back out or donate my ticket.

Hope to see ya'll there.

11011011

I'm under the impression slots are still available.

I'll be there.

I'd love to do the Challenge and hang with, and learn from, you guys and gals. July's a busy month for me, though. I have work-related travel I may need to take the second week of July ....
Well, it turns out my boss thinks he needs to go to Las Vegas more than he needs me to go. So that makes HybridFest a possibility now. My options:

Don't go. Save some money and vacation time, get some work done. Miss meeting all you great folks, miss the Challenge.
Drive by myself. Allows me to do the Challenge, but a nearly 1000 mile drive in the Prius is not at all appealing to my 6'4" frame, long legs, and 2 hundred and <mumbles> pounds.
Find or be a co-pilot. I haven't heard of anyone from the mid-Atlantic or Southeast that's going, though, much less one that wants a travel partner. And I'm still underwhelmed at the thought of spending that much time on the road.
Fly. I have a $250 voucher from American Airlines after assisting a passenger with a medical problem on a previous flight. Can't do the Challenge (unless someone offers up their Prius). But if I go, this is the direction I'm leaning at the moment.


We'll see.

Hi Jim:

___I currently have room for a few more HF’ers on Thursday and Sunday nights before heading to Madison and after before heading home. Billy will be here as well as Chuck and one or two of the Texas contingent. If you, Michael and Chris want to come on out in a car pool, I will keep the light on for ya!

___If you fly out, we can all pick you up at O’Hare but be prepared, you will be traversing the “Death Turn” where hundreds of thousands die in the Chicago area yearly for some reason according to the Internet :D

___Good Luck

___Wayne

Thanks, Wayne. Michael said he can't come, so that's out. Chris was hinting a few weeks ago that he might. Can't remember whether it was here or on PriusChat, but he was wondering aloud whether he could hypermile it the whole way and make it on one tank. That seemed tantalizing at first and I dropped a hint by suggesting having a co-pilot might help. But after I regained my sanity, I concluded that 1000 miles of P&G has even less appeal (God bless you marathoners!), especially in unfamiliar territory, than doing it on the highway,

A thought that hit me after I posted last night: Fly in and rent a Prius. Do others ever do that?

Jim's right. I've got too much going on this summer (weddings, etc. - not mine), so this year is out. I'm hoping for next year though.

If you fly out, we can all pick you up at O’Hare but be prepared, you will be traversing the “Death Turn” where hundreds of thousands die in the Chicago area yearly for some reason according to the Internet :DSo where is this death turn, anyway? I googled it, but mostly all I get back is a bunch of links to the same article about some guy named Wayne who likes to brag about his mileage. ;)

Hi Fenrir:

___I look at “The Hypermiler” article as a “beacon of hope” for ancient mariners (today’s uninformed masses) who traversed a windless and black sea (driving today’s Highways and Byways) back in the days of the tall ships (in today’s huge SUV’s).

___What I have recently discovered is that my metaphors suck ;)

___The death turn is shown below and I promise that anyone riding with me for the thrill of it on Thursday before HF2007 will not be killed … Or maybe I should set the odds at 3:1 given what has been reported on the Internet as of late :angel:

http://www.cleanmpg.com/photos/data/500/The-Death-Turn.jpg
A fairly innocuous cloverleaf, no? Drive it with Xcel sometime :) Note the cemetery conveniently located in the SW quadrant.

___Maybe I should charge a $1.00 per ride or something :D

___Good Luck

___Wayne

Hi Fenrir:

___I look at “The Hypermiler” article as a “beacon of hope” for ancient mariners (today’s uninformed masses) who traversed a windless and black sea (driving today’s Highways and Byways) back in the days of the tall ships (in today’s huge SUV’s).

___What I have recently discovered is that my metaphors suck ;)



Ouch.

That first part is just painful. The second part isn't bad at all. "who traversed a windless and black sea (driving today’s Highways and Byways) back in the days of the tall ships (in today’s huge SUV’s)."

Rearranging can be your friend, along with a slight rewording, you can get:

"For those who traverse the windless and black seas (Highways and Byways), in the days of tall ships (Huge SUV's), I see peers with full sails as a beacon of hope (fellow hypermilers), a lighthouse on a friendly shore, especially in strange lands. (Hybridfest/Wisconsin :p ) Their logs show their efficiency, and reading it makes my heart sing with pleasure. (Seeing fellow hypermilers tanks and stories makes me happy.)"

BTW, I found a T-shirt that I had to buy, and I'm going to wear at hybridfest. I think you'll all love it.

eep! I hadn't seen the start of this thread, and I haven't signed
up yet despite a couple of reminders sitting in my "deal with
this right now" email file [yeah, sure]. One minor problem is
a non-moveable conflict with a social gathering I've helped with
for years but I think I'm definitely leaning more toward the
trek to HF instead.
.
I also had this vague thought of arriving way early and helping
the organizers do their thing, but nobody's contacted me about
that sort of thing [and various other outstanding questions from
other people, hint]. But that would mean a lot of hotel. Some
of us also have this fantasy of working scheduled tech seminars
into the route, both out and back, but somehow I don't think
that's going to happen.
.
I'm sort of waffling about the MPG challenge; my MPG over the
winter has been crap relative to last year and it might have
something to do with those Hydroedges I put on right as it got
cold. But maybe it would still be good to turn in some "real
life with better tires" numbers for the Prius class... or maybe
I'm just being paranoid, or doing to much highway travel this
winter. Wash out the road salt and clean the crap out of the
brakes, and it might pop right back to where it should be..
Are all the slots full by now anyways? Would a snail-mailed
signup get in on time?
.
_H*

Hi Hobbit:

___Like last year, you are more then welcome to stay here for Thursday night and Sunday before heading out again … It might be a bit more of a full house then last but it sure was nice having you, Dennis, the Honaker’s, and Chuck here last year before HF2006. I expect we will enjoy the company of 2 Texans, 1 Washingtonian, 2 East Coaster’s and you if you can make it? If you could possibly car pool in with Jim/Michael/Chris if any/all can make it, I am sure it would be a heck of an adventure and one to tell the grand kids about in 30 + years ;)

___WRT HF2007, Eric and the group are going to need all the help they can get when crunch time actually arrives. I do not know what that will entail but Eric knows Tom and I can help with whatever is needed including clinics on possibly Sunday morning. I know there was discussion of you and Mike doing a tech session but I am not sure what you are two are doing behind the scenes currently?

___Good Luck

___Wayne

i am really sorry i won't be able to make it. i again will be dealing with one HP....my yearly horse show. since my knee has been good enough so that i can get back on my guy, i have been riding 3-4 times a week, and plan to enter a lot of classes. at least i will be saving gas........

Thanks, Wayne; I had a total blast hanging out with y'all that
day and thought it was sort of a pity that Dennis didn't go out
on *our* test run that morning too. If Eric et al need help,
I might wind up having to proceed to Madison over those preceding
days instead, but much depends on what needs done and accomodations.
.
Mike and I have been working on training-course design and demo
pieces; I've got *hours* of Prius material alone and he's got
a pile of very cool portable parts exhibits [and some not so
portable]. Trouble is that many owner/enthusiast audiences aren't
as interested in the deep-tech stuff, especially from the viewpoint
of a working tech, so it remains to be seen if any of this would
be appropriate for HF. Other than that, I've got hundreds of
the "free fuel" rant flyers left and a strong willingness to
press them into the hands of the public... especially as gas
prices continue their climb.
.
_H*

Hobbit,
This year since things are separated into different days, it should not be as hectic as last year and should allow lots of time for interaction. Having the MPG Challenge be the main event of the day on Friday should really spread out the load and help concentrate efforts. Opening up the speakers sessions to the public and having separate speaking areas will eliminate some confusion. Having owners display their cars on Saturday inside the Fair gates (outdoors) will make for less movement and chaos during the day. Making certain things (how to's etc) exclusive for members only in pre-show activities on Sunday (9am-noon) will help as well.

I am very interested in the detailed stuff that you and Mike have, and I know there are others interested in that level of detail as well. We'll work with you guys to figure out what is the right fit.
Options include:
1) having an indoor exhibit hall booth that's open to the public on both Saturday and Sunday(indoors). (Sat 10-5, Sun noon-5)
2) doing speaking sessions on Saturday and Sunday. One each day, open to anyone who wants to show up.
3) technical session for members only Sunday morning before the public show opens (9-noon).
4) anything else that you can come up with that makes sense. We are open to ideas.

I look forward to talking with you and Mike and to seeing you guys at the Hybridfest again.

Well, things are actually falling into place. My potential July work-related commitments have gone away, and it looks like I'll be able to make the trip. I've pretty much decided to fly into O'Hare and rent a Prius. None of the airport rental outlets have them in their inventory, but several Toyota dealers do. I've talked to two and have a call in to a third. The best price so far is from Oakbrook Toyota, $110 for the weekend (Friday-Monday). If I add Thursday it's another $39. Seems pretty reasonable. Any Chicagoans have other suggestions?

I asked the young lady at the dealership about the best way to get between their place and the airport. They wondered whether the train might be an option. Again, any advice from you locals is appreciated.

Eric, are there any slots still open for the Challenge? If not, I'll save a little money and come in Friday instead of Thursday.

Did you make sure you can drive it out of state? You might want to check in to and out of milwaukee. It might be cheaper and you could rent the car for instate travel.

Hi Jim:

___Don’t even bother thinking about renting a Prius. There will be so many Prius II’s in the area that weekend that you could easily hop from one to the next while traveling down the Interstate all the way from Chicago to Madison during HF2007 week :D If the challenge is still open, we can get you into a well setup Prius II of your year and probably color and option package if you really needed it ;) Just kidding on the year, color and option package but seriously, there are going to be more Prius’ in one spot then you have ever seen in your life. Do you remember the term “Shock and Awe”? Think similarly except instead of bombs and explosions, a sea of Prius’ the likes you have never even imagined! Of the few that would be arriving into Madison on Friday morning, I am sure someone would let you borrow theirs for an hour or so. I can think of two or three Prius owners from the Ma and MiHG that will be there for the challenge as well. Chuck and Dan are coming up from Texas and I am sure Dan would let you borrow his for an hour without a second thought.

___Good Luck

___Wayne

Did you make sure you can drive it out of state?
Good point. I'll verify before reserving.

Air fare to the two airports is comparable. Two reasons for O'Hare over Milwaukee: 1) better and more flight options for the former, and 2) Wayne's earlier offer to hang with him and the others Thursday and Sunday evening. I'll be flying American (redeeming the voucher I described earlier in the thread), and they offer many non-stop choices from Richmond. The Milwaukee flights all require plane changes, the majority in St. Louis, and with fewer departure and arrival time choices.

Wayne, to be honest, I really think I'd prefer renting one. I like the independence of having a set of wheels when I'm traveling, coming and going as I please.

Hi Jim:

___Getting a vehicle from Oak Brook should not be a problem either. We will get those Integrity’s aired up properly shortly afterwards ;)

___Good Luck

___Wayne

Looking at the events, it looks like I'm going to drive up on Thursday, that way I can relax on Friday for the first day since there's stuff going on far earlier then last year.

Well, if you get up here early enough on Thursday night, there is the second Hybrid Car Cruise Night (http://www.cleanmpg.com/forums/showthread.php?t=4259) from 5-9pm at Quaker Steak & Lube in Middleton, a suburb of Madison.

The featured vehicle will be the Toyota Prius, but all hybrids are welcome.

Eric, any spots left for the Challenge?

Yep. there are spots available.

:( I'm going to be left out. Don't worry, Jim. I'll take care of VA while you're at HF.

:flag: Hi All,
Fun times at "Hybridfest-2007"
Terry (tiger)

Well, if you get up here early enough on Thursday night, there is the second Hybrid Car Cruise Night (http://www.cleanmpg.com/forums/showthread.php?t=4259) from 5-9pm at Quaker Steak & Lube in Middleton, a suburb of Madison.

The featured vehicle will be the Toyota Prius, but all hybrids are welcome.


LOL, there's that too!

OK, I will eventually make up my mind. Not whether I'm going -- that's a done deal -- but rather how I'm getting there. I crunched some numbers and, with my child support and alimony payments as they are, realized I need to keep myself on a short leash, money-wise. So I think I'll drive.

Wayne, I think I'll still take you up on your "leave the light on" offer for Thursday and Sunday. That makes the bulk of the trip -- from here to Chicago -- more manageable when split into two days. To further reduce costs, I'll bring my tent and find campgrounds along the way and maybe in or around Madison.

And I'll have my own ride.

Everyone, please excuse my wishy-washiness. :)

Jim,
I'm sure there are others going through some of the same number crunching so it's cool of you to share your decision making process. What we need is some studens who want to rent out their house for the weekend or something for cheap. So many of them are gone for the summer and just paying rent on an empty place.

Hi Jim:

___For the trip out, setup your Prius for a single overnight to and from. I know both Dave Bassage and Hobbit have done it. If I owned a Prius II, I most certainly would given the Accord has been known to hold this writer cozy for an overnight more then a few times. Show up here on Thursday and we will all head into downtown Chicago so you can see some of the sites that night with all who will be here. Dan, Chuck, Billy and yourself are scheduled as of this post.

___For the accommodations at HF 2007, 3 or 4 can share a room at the Clarion to keep that outlay in check if you need to?

___Good Luck

___Wayne

For the trip out, setup your Prius for a single overnight to and from. I know both Dave Bassage and Hobbit have done it.
I've thought about that after reading about Hobbit doing it. Actually after seeing it, I believe -- I think he has pics.

Anyway, I haven't met Dave, but I can tell you I have several inches and many pounds more than Hobbit. I'm not sure how comfortable I'd be. I can handle $15 or so for a tent site at a state park campground. Throw in the cooking setup from my backpacking stuff and my lawn chair -- and maybe a Coors Light or four on ice -- and I'll have a right cozy setup. And probably a little quieter and more secure than a Wal-Mart lot.

Well since I'm not familiar with the area I think I may want a navigator for the MPG challenge.

I would like someone that is familiar with the area and wont mind riding 30 miles with no A/C, no tunes, doesn't mind fast sharp turns, and if necessary pushing the car. ;)

Navigator must also watch traffic flow and look for cops.

Well I may have some tunes just to pass the time.

Anyone interested? :)

Well since I'm not familiar with the area I think I may want a navigator for the MPG challenge.

I would like someone that is familiar with the area and wont mind riding 30 miles with no A/C, no tunes, doesn't mind fast sharp turns, and if necessary pushing the car. ;)

Navigator must also watch traffic flow and look for cops.

Well I may have some tunes just to pass the time.

Anyone interested? :)

If it's like last year, the route will be a secret until the race. You will get directions and a few minutes to glance at a map.

I won't be bringing my car, but I have a portable Magellen GPS I'm planning to use for that - I could lend it if I arrive before you drive.

Thanks but I do have navigation with my Prius. I just thought it might be better to have someone more familiar with the area with me on the 30 mile route.

If it's similar to last year, pay attention to the 1st mile. You are allowed to try again, if you miss a turn.

You might want to clarify that chuck. You will probably allowed to try again if you miss a turn if they can fit you in.

There are going to be a lot of cars running so you might not want to risk missing a turn. I think the organizers learned from last year not to take anything for granted and will make sure you have enough information so you don't get lost or miss a turn.

....yes, the operative word was "if it's like last year"

The reason the route was not announced in advance is to make it more like real world driving. I would recommed studying the map.

What's the schedule for Friday July 20th? I have to make reservations for the rooms and the ferry and whatnot.

What's the schedule for Friday July 20th? I have to make reservations for the rooms and the ferry and whatnot.

I believe (?) according to www.hybridfest.com (http://www.hybridfest.com), its the MPG Challenge in the afternoon, then ice cream in the evening.

OK now where do you see that? I only see 21st and 22nd on the activities page.

Maybe it was a post by Eric - I know for sure the MPG Challenge is on Friday. He wants to uncompress this HybridFest. :)

The MPG route should perhaps be marked with brightly colored
laminated signs, like Tour de Sol used. They were square, with
big arrows printed diagonally, and could be mounted in any
orientation to point left, right, straight, etc.
.
If a campground spot is only $15 it would be worth it just to
pull into a relatively quiet spot with trees overhead even if
I just still sleep in the car, as opposed to worrying about
truckers peeing on my hood at a rest stop. It's the $80 for
a motel I'm having issues with...
.
_H*

Hobbit, I hope Eric sees your suggestion about big road markers...

OK now where do you see that? I only see 21st and 22nd on the activities page.
Since most of the activities on Friday (except where members can also bring their guests) are only for Hybridfest Members, you'll find the details on the Hybridfest members page (http://www.hybridfest.com/Members.htm).

Scroll down the page a bit for the schedule.

Hybridfest 2007 Detailed Schedule:

FRIDAY, JULY 20

All Friday activities are for Hybridfest members only:
* Noon – 9 p.m.: Member check in at Olin Park (light snacks available)
* Noon – 5 p.m.: MPG Challenge
* 6 p.m. – 7 p.m.: Cook out served (tickets must be ordered at registration)
* 7 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.: Ice cream social (open to all members and their guests)
* 7:30 p.m. – 8 p.m.: MPG Challenge awards
* 9 p.m.: Reception ends

OK. I haven't signed up yet. I'm just lazy :) I'll take care of that today.

If a campground spot is only $15 it would be worth it ....
The midpoint between my place and Wayne's is somewhere around the PA/OH state line on I-76. I will probably pick from among several state parks in northeast Ohio, ranging in price from $17 to $21 for a non-electric site.

Weee! I'm going this year.

I am sure Dan would let you borrow his for an hour without a second thought.Sorry for the late hit, been lurking lately.... Jim, confirmed... You can borrow it if you still need to.

11011011

Everything's in place. I am so lazy, no? Registered and put in vacation request this morning. Got rooms and car ferry tickets yesterday. :woot:

Hi Sledge:

___Could you do a travelogue in the Hypermiling while on Vacation forum on the Ferry trip this year. I sure was looking forward to it last but I understand you were pretty busy afterwards …

___Good Luck

___Wayne

I'll try. I have more free time this year since I'll be arriving and leaving a little earlier. My DSLR will be coming with me :)

Debbie,
Will you be competing in the Hybridfest MPG Challenge (http://www.hybridfest.com/MPG.htm)on Friday afternoon?

The goal: Achieve the best percentage over the EPA's estimates for your vehicle, as compared to other cars within your division

You would be in Division 5:
Mariner Hybrid
Escape Hybrid
Highlander Hybrid
RX 400h
VUE Green Line Hybrid
Silverado Hybrid

Hi Eric --

Now that I am *finally* registered for HF2007, I can say that I will indeed participate in the MPG Challenge, although if Wayne gets his wish to drive a 2008 FEH, I won't stand a chance ;)

Ok... Who's working on convincing Larry to bring his new baby ;)

11011011

Hi Dan:

___I think we convinced him of that before I even found out what he bought ;)

___Good Luck

___Wayne

Hi Dan:

___I think we convinced him of that before I even found out what he bought ;)

___Good Luck

___Wayne

Ok. I am now officially registered so I guess I gotta come now.:p

Anyone else getting excited? Only a month and a half to go :)

http://img237.imageshack.us/img237/2950/yesac7.gif

Anyone else getting excited? Only a month and a half to go :)

:flag: Terry (tiger) is really (excited) FOR EVERYONE THAT IS GOING: :Banane29:

I'm getting excited about Hybridfest. It's the long (for me) highway trip that's got me a bit concerned for my lmpg.;)

Weee! I'm going this year.
Cool!
Which hybrid will you bring?

I want to go to HybridFest! I need some local attractions that would make the trip worthwhile for my wife. What interesting things are there for someone who's main past time is shopping?

First, I encorage you to right away get the Greater Madison Convention & Visitors Bureau guide. http://www.visitmadison.com/visitorinfo/index.php?category_id=61

Off the top of my head, here are some things.

Saturday, July 21st
Dane County Farmers Market. (http://www.dcfm.org/)
The Dane County Farmers' Market on the Square is a Saturday tradition in Madison, Wisconsin. You'll find the season's best bounty of vegetables, flowers, and specialty products from approximately 300 vendors. All of the agriculturally-related items are produced in Wisconsin. The DCFM is reported to be the largest producer-only farmers's market in the country! Open - Rain or Shine - from 6:00 am to 2:00 pm.

Saturday, July 21st and Sunday, July 22nd
Maxwell Street Days (http://visitdowntownmadison.com/events/index.php?category_id=3123)
A Madison tradition since 1975, this annual sidewalk sale and community event showcases downtown's unique State Street shopping district. More than 100 shops, boutiques, galleries and restaurants--many locally owned--offer terrific bargains on clothing, jewelry, gifts, artwork, food, drink and more in a festive, family-friendly event. Fri.-Sat. 8 am - 6 pm; Sun. 10 am - 5 pm
State Street, Madison, Wisconsin

I told my fiancee just today that Prius is getting excited. She's never been to a family reunion before. :)

I told my fiancee just today that Prius is getting excited. She's never been to a family reunion before. :)

ROTFLMAO! That's a great way of looking at it, Jim.

Cool!
Which hybrid will you bring?

I'm bringing the Insight if I learn how to drive it (5 speed) in time... I just took it out again today and I'm finally getting it. I do need a lot more practice though.

I have already made my hotel reservations, but haven't actually signed up for Hybridfest yet because I'm not sure which food things my boyfriend and I want to do, if any.
I was hoping to stop by the farmers market, it sounds great, but it looks like we'll be at Hybridfest the whole time it's going on.

Just got my flight reserevations! It will be so cool to actually talk face to face with others!

Bob

Hi IMAHybrid:

___We have some Insight drivers that will be involved in the Hypermiling clinics on Sunday and I am sure they can pass along a few tips and tricks? Let us just say these guys are not just your everyday Insight drivers but some of the best Hypermilers on the planet! Wait until you have the opportunity to drive with them. It will make HF2007 worth it all by itself let alone all the other cool things the HF team have planned ;)

___Bob, I will pick you up whenever your flight arrives. To bad Tarabell couldn’t make it. I think I am going to PM her to death over the next few weeks until she breaks. It worked on Gary G. :D

___Good Luck

___Wayne

That's it, xcel. Beat her into submission! :D :D :D

I will be flying out to a friends in MI. We will drive his Insight to hybridfest. I hope to have several MIMA systems with me.

Eric has dibs on one.

Any others that are interested, let me know. I hope I have some left by then.
Wish I could bring the batmobile, but just don't feel up to the 2000 mile round trip trek.
CU all soon
;)

Where in MI? Will you be driving from there or taking one of the ferries?

Hm... still debating... It is only 325 miles, 5h 27m minutes according to Google Maps. Only 40 miles farther if I go through Bloomington, IL instead of Chicago. I don't have any available time off work, so I'd have to drive up Friday evening and leave Sunday afternoon. I bet the hotels are pretty much filled at this point. Any good camping reasonably close by?

- - - - -
EDIT: I just registered, and managed to reserve a room at the Clarion. :bananajump: Looking forward to meeting some of the folks I've pissed off with my abrasive posts. :D

I won't know for sure 'til the day before (in other words *that* Friday) . I do have a bag packed "just in case" :cool:

I'm heading out Friday evening at 6-6:30 pm(EST) from Elkhart, IN. I have a question: Is there a dress code for any of the HF activities for the volunteers?

Nope. Just try not to wear anything with offensive sayings on it, please.

and be sure to bring your smile. :)

Ok... We have made the trip and are in the general Chicago area. Look forward to the weekend.

11011011

I won't know for sure 'til the day before (in other words *that* Friday) . I do have a bag packed "just in case" :cool:

Ok I lied ...I know *now* that I must unpack my bag ...:( . Have a lil bit of ot to put in - like split shift type - but that will make the car payment :cool: .

I know *now* that I must unpack my bag
:(

but that will make the car payment
:)

We need a thread "I'm posting this message at the CleanMPG booth at HF2k7".

Because I am right now!

:D :D

We need a thread "I'm posting this message at the CleanMPG booth at HF2k7".

Because I am right now!

:D :D

Hi Sledge !!!!!
:woot::woot::woot::woot::woot:

Blah blah blah. Some of us have important things to do at hybridfest. :woot: :Banane39:

Blah blah blah. Some of us have important things to do at hybridfest. :woot: :Banane39:
Rich,

:) Your such a "CLOWN" :Banane27:

But hey you are okay in my Book. :D

Home again, home again, jiggity jig :)

Hi Sledge:

___Did you take the Ferry back as well? I really really really want to see some pics of your HCH-II ICE-Off in the middle of Lake Michigan :D

___Good Luck

___Wayne

Rich,

:) Your such a "CLOWN" :Banane27:

But hey you are okay in my Book. :D

Hi Terry!

Missed you this year :(

I was looking forward to talking cats & cars with you :asmile:

Hi Terry!

Missed you this year :(

I was looking forward to talking cats & cars with you :asmile:
Hi Debbie,

Nice to hear/read from you.

Yeah, I missed seeing all you people at Hybridfest. I almost drove up there on Saturday like at 3:00 AM just to be there that day and then sleep some that night and get back up in the AM Sunday morning and drive back here. Cathy thought I had LOST-IT and was going to kill myself driving all those hrs. and then repeat it the very next day so I backed off and did not do it.

Hey speaking of Cats:

Tiger said to say Hello:

http://www.cleanmpg.com/photos/data/500/medium/Tiger_The_Maine_Coon_Cat.jpg

And then Max said, hey don't leave me out. So Max says Hello:

http://www.cleanmpg.com/photos/data/500/medium/Max_the_Rag_Doll_Cat.jpg

So there you have it the kids (Tiger & Max) plus me say Hello and wish we could have been there.

Terry

Fo those of you that took a drive in the Prius simulator did you know they took your picture? If you still have you seed packet go to http://www.toyota.com/highway and put in your access code. There you will have access to your picture.

This is me.
http://stuff.jaygroh.com/priuschat/20070721105714-55.jpg

Hi Sledge:

___Did you take the Ferry back as well? I really really really want to see some pics of your HCH-II ICE-Off in the middle of Lake Michigan :D

___Good Luck

___Wayne

Yes I did. I've been busy so I've been neglecting all those pics I took. I hope to have some time soon and start posting. :)

Here's me! I did terrible.

http://www.cleanmpg.com/photos/data/565/20070721110928-54.jpg

Hi IMAHybrid:

___The simulator saw your IMA Hybrid logo and dropped the Prius’ tires to just 14 #’s all around before you began :D

___Good Luck

___Wayne

OK I finally got my pictures uploaded. Not much but there are a few nice ones on there.

Hybridfest 07
http://www.jaygroh.com/sitepics/hybridfest07/index.htm


Here are some pictures I took after Hybridfest when I went to the Corvair convention in Detroit. Went to see the Henry Ford museum, Corvair convention, Ypsilanti automotive museum, and GM Heritage museum. The GM and Ford museum had an EV1 on display. I actually open the door on the one in the GM museum because it was unlocked. :cool: What could I say I wanted to drive it away. :D In fear of getting caught I decided to ask one of the workers there if he could pop the hood open. He did so I quickly got some shots of the innards. The guy said all it was missing was the batteries. Anyone want to go on a rescue mission with me? :D

http://www.jaygroh.com/sitepics/corvair07/index.htm