Hybrid electric cars don't need to be plugged in to recharge the batteries. Instead, they have a relatively small gasoline engine that can charge the batteries and provide cruising power. A hybrid typically uses the electric motor to provide additional power for acceleration. I've ridden in a Prius. It seems to be a peppy little car with acceleration on the order of 0-60 MPH in about 10 seconds. Electric motors have their maximum torque at 0 RPM, so they're very well suited for acceleration. In addition to the electricity provided by the gas engine, hybrids usually take advantage of regenerative braking to capture some of the energy used for braking and put it into the batteries.

My coworker's Prius seemed like a good car. She was getting over 40 MPG in town on a daily basis. I've read that Toyota is planning on marketing a hybrid version of their Highlander SUV this year and Honda will have a hybrid CRV soon. Pretty cool, in a geeky sort of way.