While Fisker and Tesla are close to becoming household names, Via Motors is the third player in the EV market that is slowly gaining recognition for converting traditional gas-guzzlers like full-size trucks, SUVs and vans. At next month's Detroit Auto Show, the Utah-based carmaker hopes to get further traction in the EV market with the reveal of three new full-size EVs, including an 800-horsepower, four-wheel-drive pickup called the X-Truck, a luxury 4WD SUV laden with tech, and the world's first 12-passenger hybrid passenger van.

Industry veteran Bob Lutz, who joined the company last years as a spokesman, will personally unveil the new vehicles on January 14. Previous efforts suggest they will almost certainly be based on GM platforms, be powered by extended-range electric drivetrains, and fitted with Via's signature V-Drive powertrain. "These three new offerings demonstrate VIA's commitment to electrify the top-selling vehicles that use the most gas and can therefore benefit the most from converting to low-cost electric fuel," said VIA's president Alan Perriton. Via's vehicles typically manage 40 miles in pure electric mode, and can cover 100 miles at 100 mpg in hybrid mode.