A large number of American firms are developing electric cars. General Motors has taken the lead with an electric car that is slated for mass production in the mid 1990's, the Impact. The Impact can go from 0-60 in 8 seconds, has a range of about 80 miles per charge, and only requires about 3 hours to recharge on any 220v circuit. Little routine maintenance is required, and the cost will be competitive with conventional gas-powered cars.