Nissan is breaking away from hybrid technology partner Toyota and developing its own gas-electric systems, according to the DailyTech. According to the The Daily Yomiri Online as cited in report, Nissan is also working on a plug-in hybrid.
Nissan is ditching nickel metal hydride batteries in favor of lithium-ion batteries that (safety issues aside) have more power and are faster charging. 
Also, battery company Lithium Technology says it developed a battery than can power a sedan for up to 50 miles without using any gas. A plug-in hybrid sedan using its battery would average 75 miles per gallon, according to the company.
Lithium Technologyapparently doesn't have a partner yet as the company issued a challenge to the auto industry to use "readily available enabling technology and to work with them to step up technology advancements."
Toyota is working on a plug-in hybrid, and even Google wants a piece of the action. You'll probably hear much more about modified plug-in hybrids starting next year, and I'm betting one of the biggest auto manufacturers will demonstrate a model in January at the auto show in Detroit.
