Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa prepares to take a demonstration ride -- backing up three feet -- at the wheel of the all electric Mini E, distinguished by yellow trim and a "plug" where the fuel filler cap would be.

Also pictured is Councilwoman Jan Perry, in the pasenger seat, as he announces the "Southern Region Plug-In Readiness Plan," which will prepare Los Angeles for the commercial launch of electric vehicles. (AP Photo/Reed Saxon)