If the technology is developed and mass-produced by the private sector, the production cost will be greatly reduced. As far as I know, no one has actually run out of electricity on the highway, but there have been a few times when car trouble has occurred. The harsh winter and cold temperatures were also a factor. Project participants also complained that the cars' heaters didn't keep them warm enough on extremely cold days. The industry is attempting to address these problems.
Battery technology is the primary limiting factor for electric cars.
The lead acid battery, standard equipment in the Solectria production models, allows a range of only 35 to 70 miles between charges. The more advanced, and more expensive nickel cadmium battery has a range of 100 miles. Nickel metal hydride batteries go for up to 175 miles, but cost even more. Refueling is simple, but time consuming. Just plug in the car to an electric outlet, and wait 6 to 8 hours for a full charge.