Electric Car Stocks Making Moves in 2010

A123 had been in the running as a supplier for the Chevy Volt, but it's being reported that the Volt's battery system is being provided by South Korea's LG Chem instead.

With substantial cash burn in A123's coffers, this stock is nothing if not a speculative play. But increasing market hype over EV offerings could help buoy share prices in the mid-term shares are already poised for strong performance today. Keep a close eye on buyout rumors that are flooding the Street this week.

Even though GM has earned most of the electric car credibility lately, other manufacturers have stepped up to the plate, ready to deliver their own electric offerings to consumers. Among them is Ford(F).

Ford stands out as the league leader in American cars. The only carmaker to not need government bailout money, and the first to climb back into profitability, Ford has deservedly returned more than 30% gains to investors already this year. And the company could offer up bigger returns with its forthcoming EV plans.

Like GM, Ford plans on releasing dedicated EV models that aren't offered in gas-fuelled varieties. It also plans on releasing an electric version of the insanely popular Focus. But while Ford talks of its plans for an electric future, the company's keeping its cards close to its chest.

Instead, Ford's public focus continues to be increasing quality and corporate efficiency. This stock should continue to be a Wall Street favorite in 2010.

More on Ford Cramer's Take on Headline Stocks

Toyota's EV aspirations are a bit more obvious. The company's development deal with Tesla gives it an instant edge over carmakers that need to build an EV team from scratch, and so does its electric car track record. Toyota produced an electric variant of the Rav4 between 1997 and 2003. As with GM's EV1, scores of the cars were scrapped as corporate leases ended -- but unlike the EV1, many electric Rav4s are still on the road today thanks to a cult following.

The company's hoping to capitalize on that by offering a brand new electric version of its Rav4. With recall drama still plaguing Toyota's share price, switching consumers' focus on a new electric car could finally get the company out of the doghouse.

To see these electric car plays in action, check out the Electric Car Stocks Portfolio on Stockpickr.

-- Written by Jonas Elmerraji in Baltimore.

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