Bruce, you can get 50+ mpg out of a regular Toyota now if you practice certain driving techniques. My 91 Geo can get more than 40. I coast a lot.
The reason I would like to get a newer car though is because the emmission standards are better now in newer cars. I can't afford a new car right now though.
oh, and as far as elecric cars go, you don't necessarily need plug in stations, some electrics can by plugged into a regular outlet with an adapter, I believe. I remember seeing something about that a while back.