Important Facts About Hybrid Cars

Hybrid cars are unique types of vehicles. This is not because their body structures, sizes, and designs are different from the conventional gas-powered cars since they actually look similar. This type of vehicle is unique because the components found under its hood are different from the ordinary expensive and cheap new car models that most car finders would purchase either on a cash basis or through auto financing.

Hybrid cars do not only rely on the gas engine as the power source, but they also have an alternative power source such as an electric motor. In fact, hybrids are currently using three major types of technologies to propel them. The first type is the so-called "parallel hybrid system" that uses electric motors, gas engines or the combination of these two as power source.

The second type is referred to as the "mild hybrid system" that uses an electric motor to support the gas engine in specific conditions. However, the electric motor in this system is not capable of propelling the vehicle all by itself.

The third type is commonly known as the "plug-in hybrid system" that makes use of electric motors to power the vehicle. This type of hybrid has battery packs that store electrical charges when the vehicle is charged. These batteries would then release the stored charges when the vehicle is driven. Most of the time, this type of hybrid has gasoline engines that propel the vehicle in the event that the batteries are drained along the way.

Although these are just the existing technologies found in almost all hybrid vehicles, car makers still continue to search and develop other technologies that could support the overall function of this type of vehicle. As a matter of fact, there are car makers who are now using the regenerative-braking systems that helps hybrids extra charges when the vehicle brakes.

Due to these technologies installed on hybrids, they become more fuel-efficient. The extra source of power such as the electric motors allows the hybrid to consume lesser fuel since the vehicle does not run on just gasoline alone. In short, the additional power source cuts the total fuel consumption down.

The size and the need for space is not an issue for hybrids. This is because hybrid cars are offered in different options. In fact, you can easily choose a hybrid car that suits your need for space. In case you need the space provided by an SUV or a sedan, you can easily look for hybrid versions of these vehicles since they usually have their own hybrid counterparts.

However, the only problem that you could possibly encounter when you look for a hybrid car is the price. Hybrids are currently sold at higher prices since their production costs are also high. But this would probably last for long since more and more car manufacturers are planning to mass produce more hybrid versions of their vehicles.

Marty Bay is an Automotive Journalist and publisher, widely known as a contributor writer, editor, and publisher for some well-known Automotive Properties in the US like Car Finder, Auto Financing, and AboutCar to name a few. His expertise is in writing news and publishing content that would help New Car Finders, and buyers seeking information about Auto Financing and other New Car related offers, deals, and changes in the industry. He also specialises in producing and publishing New Car Buying Guides for various automotive websites in the United States.

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Hybrid Vehicle Top Safety Pick

An auto insurance trade group, The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, has named a hybrid vehicle as a top safety pick. The Chevrolet Volt, a plug-in hybrid vehicle with a small gasoline engine, achieved the honor along with the all-electric Nissan Leaf. The Insurance Institute offered the judgment after the group's first US crash tests of plug-in and pure electric cars. Anyone wondering if hybrid vehicles are going to be safe can rest easy.

The Volt earned its top rating of "good" for front, side, rear and rollover crash protection. The Institute also noted that both the Volt and the Leaf have standard electric stability control which the group considers a crucial safety feature. Makers of hybrid vehicles are clearly using the same standards of safety in the production of these new types of cars as in the more common internal combustion engine vehicles.

Critics have long argued that hybrid vehicles could not be made economically and that safety would be compromised in the rush to "go green," but the recent crash tests show that this is not the case. These hybrid vehicles are as safe or safer than any car produced today.

Both the Nissan Leaf and the Chevrolet Volt are small cars which initially would seem to indicate a lack of safety. Both, though, have battery packs adding significant weight to the vehicles making them safer than other cars in their class. This, too, was demonstrated by the Institute's crash tests.

Additionally, the tests proved that using technology to boost fuel economy, such as the electric batteries in both these vehicles, is preferable to simply downsizing and lightening the weight of cars to save fuel. Hybrid vehicles are actually safer than standard cars of the same size while remarkably fuel-efficient at the same time.

These hybrid vehicles are perfect for highway driving. Should a crash occur, these cars will protect the drivers better than the vast majority of standard cars.

In fact, these electric cars are far safer than the low-speed vehicles, such as the GEM e2 or the Wheego Whip, which were judged dangerous after crash tests last year. These are golf-cart-like vehicles which are becoming increasingly popular, but are not required to meet the national safety standards of passenger vehicles.

The image of the electric and hybrid car was damaged in the mind of the consumer by these small carts which were never meant for highway driving. Nevertheless, industry observers think that the new tests will propel the Leaf and the Volt forward in the minds of eco-minded consumers who have been waiting for a chance to purchase a reasonably green, fuel-efficient and safe car for at least five years. The time has finally arrived. Both the Leaf and the Volt are extremely safe, fuel-efficient and will not harm the environment. Auto makers have finally turned the corner on producing desirable hybrid vehicles.

Diane Butler, Ph.D., a writer living in Southern California, has eagerly awaited the appearance of a popular and safe hybrid cars. She has always hoped to see the demise of the polluting internal combustion engine.

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How to Maintain a Hybrid Car

There are nearly two million registered hybrid vehicles within the U.S. today, and more than 50 percent of respondents to a recent online survey said they're considering a hybrid purchase within the next five years. Searching out and finding the right car loan for one of these can also be a daunting task.

As popular as the vehicles are, some buyers worry that hybrids can be more expensive and more difficult to maintain than a non-hybrid vehicle. In fact, routine maintenance is actually that of a non-hybrid vehicle-and might even be cheaper in some cases. Following are a few general guidelines on maintaining a hybrid vehicle. Always consult your vehicle manual for information and maintenance schedules specific to your car.

Oil changes: For non-hybrid cars, a 3,000-mile interval between oil changes has long been the standard. (Even though experts are convinced that new oil blends permit a longer interval between changes.) For hybrid cars, a less frequent interval of 5,000-10,000 miles between oil changes is considered standard. Auto experts might point to oil and oil filters for hybrids that are different from manufacturer recommendations. These filters can cost a bit more, but it's for you to decide which recommendations you choose to follow.

Brakes: Brake pads in a hybrid may get less wear (due to the vehicle's regenerative braking capabilities). So you'll likely to end up in a position to replace them less frequently. Inspect brakes every 15,000 to 20,000 miles.

Batteries: Replace the air filter on the hybrid high voltage battery system every 20,000 to 40,000 miles. If the high voltage battery isn't maintaining 60 to 70 percent of their charge, it's time for you to replace it-and that's about $3,000. (The good news? The warranties on a hybrid's high voltage propulsion motor battery are up to 8 years/100,000 miles and achieving 150,000 miles from an original battery isn't unusual.)

Drive Train: The internal combustion engine, electric motor and transmission are interconnected in a hybrid and may have different maintenance requirements than vehicles you might have previously owned. Only qualified technicians should check or make an effort to service components of the high voltage hybrid drive system and battery.

Financing: Many of the manufacturers are offering special auto financing plans aimed at the hybrid buyer. However, many consumers are looking online for all of their auto loan needs. By researching and gaining your financing before stepping foot in the dealership, you are more in control of the car buying process. What most consumers are starting to realize is the finance department is one if not the largest profit center in most dealerships. Having that financing taken care of up front eliminates the dealer from being able to profit from that portion of the sale.

Look online with the goal of finding the best overall finance option for you.

About the Author: Chris Goodman has been in the auto finance business for more than 20 years and has assisted thousands of consumers with their car loan needs. He is an expert on auto loans and securing the best auto refinance options for you. Find more information at online at OpenRoadLending.com and see how easy it is to get your next car loan.

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Compare A Hybrid To Chrysler's Gas Deal

The Let's Refuel America promotion from Chrysler is getting a lot of press right now, and for some reason the more I hear about it (and the more I pay at the pump) the better it sounds. At the same time, many people who are in the market for a new car are doing comparison searches to see which would be better - buying a vehicle that qualifies for the $2.99 gas guarantee, or buying a hybrid car?

Without going into all the specific details, the Chrysler $2.99 gas guarantee promotion works like this...

First, you purchase one of the following "eligible vehicles" during the two month promotion:

Chrysler 300, Chrysler 300C, Chrysler Aspen, Chrysler Pacifica (for a full list please visit the Chrysler website). Then, you can drive your new vehicle up to 12,000 miles per year, for 3 full years, and the cost of your gas is guaranteed not to exceed $2.99 per gallon. According to Chrysler, the gallon allotment calculation used to determine three years of gas at $2.99 per gallon is as follows: 12,000 miles driven per year multiplied by 3 years, divided by the vehicle's adjusted combined EPA City/Highway average miles per gallon. (You are able to drive more than 12,000 miles per year, but you're on you own in terms of gas prices for those additional miles.)

Seems like a pretty good deal, wouldn't you agree? So, would you be better off buying one of these vehicles and locking in the three year "special incentive gas card deal", or would it make more sense to purchase a hybrid car like the Prius or Civic? Part of the answer depends on the price of gas over the next 36 months, which is anyone's guess. Even so, let's pick a number and take a stab at it.

Currently, a gallon of gasoline is averaging about $3.82, down a few cents from it's all-time record high just a week or two ago. So, to keep the math simple, let's assume that gas averages an even $4 per gallon over the next three years. Of all the cars listed above (we'll exclude the SUVs, minivans, and trucks), the ones most comparable in size to a Toyota Prius would be the Chrysler Sebring, Dodge Nitro, or the Dodge Caliber.

Let's say you decide to buy a Dodge Caliber, since it is the most fuel efficient of all the eligible vehicles. The Caliber's average EPA is set at 24 mpg for this promotion. This means that Chryler guarantees you will pay no more than $2.99 per gallon for the first 500 gallons of gas you buy each year, for the next 3 years. (12,000/24=500). Since you only have to pay $2.99 per gallon, you would spend about $1,500 per year for gas - or a total of $4,500 during the 3 year promotional event.

Now imagine that you elected to go green, and instead purchased a Toyota Prius. Again, you drive 12,000 miles per year for the next 3 years, but now you pay an average of $4.00 per gallon for gas. With an EPA 48 mpg rating, your Prius would use 250 gallons of gas per year (half of what the Caliber used), which amounts to an annual fuel cost of $1000. Even though you paid $1 more per gallon for gas, after 3 full years, your total fuel expense is $1,500 less than what you would have paid while driving the Dodge under the "Let's Refuel America"deal.

Obviously there are several other factors which must be factored in to determine which is a better deal. A new Dodge Caliber can be purchased for under $15,000, although one with similar equipment to a base model Prius ($21,500) would run closer to $20,000. Then you have to consider the cost of ownership during the 3 year period (the Toyota has the advantage here), as well as the residual value if you plan to sell the car (the Prius is predicted to have a much higher resale value).

While the Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep gas promotion might seem tempting, it pays to crunch the numbers. Let's rethink this one America, because it may be more hype than help. If you're trying to decide, the hybrid car vs. gas-only calculator might also be of use.

Jeff Carey is a green vehicle enthusiast who manages a portfolio of more than 60 hybrid and electric blogs. Learn more and subscribe to his monthly newsletter at Hybrid Kingdom.

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How Do Hybrid Cars Compare With Ordinary Cars?

If you own your own car, then the chances are that it is a gas powered car because these are very much in the majority. However in recent years hybrid cars are becoming increasingly popular with motorists, so how do they compare with conventional cars?

Well first of all it should be noted that hybrids, which generally combine gas power with electrical power, are often more expensive that your ordinary car. However it would be short-sighted to automatically rule them out because in the long run this additional cost will be eclipsed by the extra savings that you will make.

This is because hybrid cars are significantly cheaper to run. For a start they offer much better fuel consumption, so you will be spending a lot less on fuel. You may also find that you receive some nice tax breaks as well because a lot of governments now offer these breaks to anyone who switches to one of these hybrid models.

The major difference between ordinary cars and hybrid cars is the fact that the latter have far fewer emissions because they are partly powered by electric. So anyone who is remotely conscious about the environment may seriously consider giving up the gas guzzling car that is currently sitting on their drive or in their garage.

Of course there are also a few problems associated with this newer type of car as well. If something goes wrong, for instance, you will soon discover that it could be a very expensive problem to fix. That's because whenever you have relatively new technology that goes wrong, it is nearly always very costly.

With ordinary gas powered cars, your local garage will have no problems fixing your car or finding the relevant parts needed to fix any problems. However with hybrid cars they may not have the knowledge to fix your car, and it may have to go back to the dealer, which is always a lot more expensive.

In the end it is of course up to you to decide if you want to go with a hybrid model when you purchase your next car. They are certainly more environmentally friendly and do offer significant savings, but there are one or two as well, as I have discussed in this article.

One thing you do have in your favour is the fact that many car manufacturers are bringing out their own hybrid models nowadays. So if you do decide to make the switch, you can choose from a wide range of different cars, and you don't simply have to go with a Toyota Prius, which for a long time was your only real option.

Click here to find out more about the advantages of hybrid cars and to read about the hybrid cars pros and cons.

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Hybrid Cars May Enable Nation's Fleet to Average 62 MPG

A debate taking place in the highest levels of government may decide the fate of the automobile industry. No, cars won't be removed from the market, rather the types of cars we drive may soon be determined by advisers to the Obama administration who are pushing for a 62 mpg fleet wide average by 2015. That means in just over a decade the average vehicle sold by manufacturers must approach that number or at least manufacturers must have a large supply of fuel efficient vehicles to offset heavier pickup trucks, crossovers and traditional gas powered cars.

The Obama administration is pushing the higher fuel economy numbers for two reasons: to reduce America's dependency on foreign fuel and to reduce tailpipe emissions, the latter being blamed for climate change. The two approaches are exclusive of each other, but as federal regulators tackle one area, they'll take on the other.

Getting to 62 mpg seems like a tall order, given that only a handful of electric cars surpass that number. But, we're talking about fleet averages which means car companies can still see larger pickup trucks getting 25 mpg as long as they also sell enough small cars getting much higher gas mileage to offset the lower numbers. One way that automakers will begin to meet federal goals is by using hybrids, perhaps the easiest and most cost effective way to raise overall corporate average fleet economy.

Granted, no conventional hybrid on the market at the moment gets anywhere near 62 mpg. Close, but still far off is the Toyota Prius which is rated at 51 mpg city, 48 mpg highway. However, there is one unconventional hybrid that already meets the fed's proposed requirements and that is the Chevrolet Volt. Powered by a lithium-ion battery pack and offering a supplemental 1.4-liter gas engine, the Volt gets the equivalent of 93 mpg in electric-only mode. That range is just 35 miles before the gas engine must kick in, but it seems likely the federal government will account for these differences when favoring a car such as the Volt.

Another way automakers will squeeze more miles out of every gallon is to come up with different hybrid options. GM will be doing just that this fall when several models equipped with eAssist will roll out. The Buick LaCrosse, for example, will employ this technology, enjoying a 25 percent boost in fuel economy for a large car that is expected to be rated at 25 mpg city, 37 mpg highway. This "mild hybrid" will utilize belt/starter/alternator technology to "hybridize" this vehicle and allow it to enjoy improved fuel economy.

Certainly, the Buick system falls far short of future 62 mpg plans, but it is a step in the right direction. Other hybridization options being explored include pairing diesel and electric power together to deliver exceptionally high fuel mileage. Even without a hybrid, an upcoming Ford Focus is expected to get 80 mpg in Europe, utilizing straight diesel power and nothing else.

Matthew C. Keegan is editor and publisher of "Auto Trends Magazine." Matt is also a contributing writer for Andy's Auto Sport and affiliated websites, an aftermarket supplier of quality auto parts including GMC parts and carbon fiber wings.

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Chrysler's Ram Plug-In Hybrid Pickup Truck

Hybrid pickup trucks are a rarity with only General Motors daring to offer this technology in its full size Chevrolet and GMC models. GM's hybrid technology isn't as sophisticated as what you would find in the Toyota Prius or Hyundai Sonata Hybrid, but it is sufficient enough for these burly trucks to achieve 20 mpg around town. That's significant in a market where 15 mpg combined fuel economy is the average for gas powered pickup trucks.

Chrysler Hybrid Quest

Chrysler briefly sold a pair of hybrid sport utility vehicles just before it went bankrupt in 2009, but pulled those models after a few months as the cost didn't justify the few sales it was able to gain. Yet, the automaker hasn't given up on hybrid technology as it is currently testing a fleet of plug-in hybrid Ram pickup trucks under the auspices of the U.S. Department of Energy.

The Ram plug-in hybrids or PHVs are among 140 prototypes being tested by the Chrysler Group in a dozen cities nationwide. Cities with disparate weather conditions have been chosen and range from Fargo, N.D., to Yuma, Ariz. These two cities offer the weather extremes the automaker needs to see how robust its hybrid technology is. The thinking is that if these trucks can survive winter weather where temperatures plunge to 40 degrees below zero or summer heat pushing 120 degrees, then the technology may be made available for retail sale.

Eight of the 10 PHV Ram trucks will be sent to Yuma's police department and used on patrol. The two remaining trucks will go to utility companies. A variety of public and private entities will partner with Chrysler in the other cities.

Federal Research Study

The Chrysler PHV program is being funded by the federal government, whose interest in the project comes as higher fuel economy ratings are being weighed. The standard Ram pickup truck gets a combined 15 mpg city and highway driving, but researchers expect that the PHV models will see a 50 to 60 percent boost in fuel efficiency. Researchers want each truck to put in at least 16,800 miles annually to accurately gauge results.

Each truck can run on electric-only power for 50 miles before the gas engine kicks in. Chrysler has no plans to offer the Ram 1500 PHV for retail sale as the program is part of a U.S. Department of Energy study. However, the technology may someday find its way into a production vehicle, perhaps the next generation Chrysler Town & Country minivan or the Dodge Durango crossover.

Matthew C. Keegan is editor and publisher of "Auto Trends Magazine." Matt is also a contributing writer for Andy's Auto Sport and affiliated websites, an aftermarket supplier of quality auto parts including carbon fiber trunks and Ford exhaust systems.

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2011 Hybrid Mercedes Benz M-Class

When we think about Mercedes-Benz, luxury, class, durability and safety come in mind. The 2011 hybrid Mercedes-Benz M Class is no exception either. The 5-passenger, 4-door luxury car comes with 5 trims and ranges from ML350 Blue TEC SUV to ML63 AMG. The other Models in M-Class include ML350 RWD SUV, ML450 Hybrid SUV and ML550 SUV.

At the start of the range, ML350 has 7 automatic gears giving fuel utilization of 16 mpg in city and approximately 20 mpg on highways. Engine Specifications: Horsepower of 210[@]3800, Torque 400[@]1600, Fuel Tank Capacity - 25.1 gal approximately. Size - 3.0L/182.

Specific features of this model include: Child Safety Door Locks and Power door Locks

Anti Theft Alarm and Vehicle Theft Tracking Notification, Selective Unlocking, Front and Rear Power Disc Brakes, Front and Rear Body Color Bumpers, Turbocharger and intercooler, DVD Player and SD Card Reader. In addition to this there are 2 Fog lights in front, Tire Pressure Monitor and Trip Computer. You will also find a Digital Clock, Compass, Automatic Climate Control and Tachometer.

The ML63 model has 7 speed automatic transmissions and gives fuel consumption of 11 mpg in city and approximately 15 mpg on highways. Engine Specifications: Horsepower of 503[@]6800, Torque 465[@]5200, Fuel Tank Capacity - 25.1 gal approximately. Size - 6.3L/379.

Specific features of this model include: Six Seated Air Bags, 4-Wheel ABS, Traction Control and Auto-on Headlights. Apart from this you have Electronic Stability Control, Back-up Camera and Vehicle Anti-theft System. For the comfort factor it has Dual Zone Front Air Conditioning. Some more features include Keyless Entry, Mirrors with Memory, Driver and Passenger Illuminated Vanity Mirror, Front and Rear Reading Lamps, Heated Driver and Passenger Seats, and last but not the least the Navigation System.

The ML350 comes with a price tag of $50,490 and the more advanced ML63 comes at $92,590. The other models in the range are ML350 SUV Type priced at $48,990, ML450 Hybrid will cost $55,790 and ML550 SUV will cost $57,590. All Grand edition M Class Models come with 19-inch light alloy wheels with Y-spoke design, which makes them a class apart from the rest. Comfort and Style have been prioritized with Power trunk Closing Assist, Rear Seat Entertainment System and One touch Window functionality. Safety and Security features are as detailed as you will find in any Mercedes-Benz, keeping up with the company's reputation of making some of the safest cars on road.

Available in 10 colors, the 2011 hybrid Mercedes-Benz M-Class will give you abundant options to choose from. With Auto-dimming driver rearview mirrors, Brushed Aluminum Running Boards with Rubber Studs and Enhanced Voice Control, the 2011 hybrid Mercedes-Benz M Class is the car to buy if you're looking forward to driving perfection!

Related Page: Rent Hybrid Car

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2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid

MKZ is a medium size sedan from the division of a company named Fort Motor. Initially this model was called Lincoln Zephyr. This sedan was previously based on the platform of CD3 which was also shared with another company Mazda 6. The 2011 hybrid Lincoln MKZ was previously revealed in year 2008 at international auto show in Los Angeles. This model faces serious competition with Audi A4, Infinity G37, series of BMW 3 and many more. The national based cost of this mid-sized car is about $34,330 excluding all the destination charges.

The 2011 hybrid Lincoln MKZ is a luxury sedan which is available with 1 trim level. Some of the equipments of this luxury sedan are wheels of 17 inch, cruise control, climate controller, leather upholstery, 9 speakers audio system, satellite radio, fog lamps, 6 CD chargers and many more.

This luxury Lincoln MKZ hybrid also includes some other features such as navigation package, executive and ultimate package, and package of spot appearance. All three packages provide different facilities and comforts to the people. The Lincoln MKZ 2011 hybrid is armored with V6 engine which has the capacity of 3.5 L and this engine will be incorporated with the 6 automatic gears. This sedan has standard front as well as all wheel drive.

The engine of Lincoln MKZ hybrid car has the capability of accelerating from 0 to 60 mph within 7.2 seconds and offers 27 MPG on highways and 18 MPG in city with the option of front wheel drive. The option of all wheel drive will have 24 MPG on highways and 17 MPG in city.

The 2011 Lincoln MKZ hybrid is known for its quiet and comfortable ride. The steering communicates with the driver and is well designed and weighted. The sound generated by the sedan is less as compared with other cylinder engines. This hybrid model is offered with beautiful interior space like luxury sedans. The adjustable driver seat is too comfortable. This model has the touch of some wonderful accessories such as link of Sirius travel and the sound system of THX. Overall material used for interior is nice than the Ford Sport. It is a good competitor for Audi or Mercedes in interior.

The 2011 Lincoln MKZ hybrid has got advanced safety equipments which provide safety to all the occupants. It has received 5 stars from the government for protecting occupants as well as drivers. This hybrid model is similar to the Ford fusion. Lincoln MKZ hybrid provides comfortable sitting as well as driving position.

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2011 Nissan Altima Hybrid Review

The Nissan Altima is now available both in sedan as well as coupe styles. The hybrid models really represent success if they are judged according to the design. The base price of Nissan Altima Hybrid 2011 is about $19,900. The 2.5 model includes several features such as, CVT, power windows, steering wheels are tilted or telescoping, adjustable driver's seat and the temperature indicator.

The 2.5 sedans as well as 2.5 S sedans and the coupe have got 175 HP which you can enjoy. The feeding rate of fuel is not lowest but is pretty good for an engine of 2.5. In the market Nissan Altima Hybrid has got no competition from other models such as Toyota Camry or the hybrid Chevrolet Malibu. All the sedans of Altima comes with the CVT which acts as an automatic transmission but only delivers power such as rheostat. The 2011 Nissan coupes are now available with CVT choice or 6 manual transmission speeds, which is regardless of the engine size.

Over all Altima hybrid provides a smooth ride, quick as well as agile. The car is sporty but it is family friendly. It is really a fun to take a ride in this car and for comforts you don't have to sacrifice the performance. The V-6 hops starting from 0 to 60 mph within 6.6 seconds.

There is a small distance between the rear and front axles, the coupe is easy to handle. The base Nissan Altima hybrid car with 4 cylinders of 2.5 L is good but now the competitors have also got sportier models of same range price. The length of Altima has been cut down by 2 inches as compared to the last model, which result in small legroom. The sedan can hold about 4 adults comfortably but the headroom as well as legroom will be small.

Nissan Altima Hybrid uses top materials for its design and class as compared to others. It has an aggressive as well as unique personality. It has been a favorite family car for many years. The blend of style as well as sport rolled in this family vehicle has made it popular.

This 4 cylinder model has about 23 MPG in the city road and 32 MPG on the highway. The engine V6 should have about 19 MPG in the road of city and on highway it has 27 MPG. Nissan Altima offers a warranty of 36,000 mile for 3 years and 60,000 mile warranty for 5 years.

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Honda Fit Hybrid: Not Fit for American Release?

The Honda Fit is a subcompact car, sold as the "Jazz" in some markets. Affordable, durable and backed by Honda's rock solid quality standards, the Fit may just be the best "value" car on the market.

For a subcompact car, the Honda Fit offers buyers a lot. Its fuel efficient 1.5-liter 16-valve four cylinder engine is paired with a 5-speed manual transmission. Optionally, a five-speed automatic transmission is available and comes with dual-mode paddle shifters with the Honda Fit Sport model. This engine is rated at 117 horsepower at 6,600 rpm and 106 foot-pounds of torque at 4,800 rpm.

Ample Storage Capacity

Powered by its front wheels, the Honda Fit has enough room to seat five and provides ample storage capacity, particularly when the rear seat is folded down. This four-door hatchback is at once roomy and stylish, demonstrating why the Fit is a strong seller in the ultra-competitive subcompact market.

One Fit model that makes a lot of sense and is already on sale in Japan is the Fit Hybrid. Honda's hybrid prowess rivals that of industry leader Toyota, but Honda has not been able to match Toyota's success thus far. Right now, the Insight and Civic Hybrid are the two hybrid models sold by Honda stateside. However, the Honda Fit Hybrid isn't sold in America and the Japanese automaker has not said when or if the model might appear.

That's too bad as the Honda Fit Hybrid would be the smallest and perhaps the most fuel efficient hybrid on the market. Currently, the Toyota Prius wins the fuel efficiency crown as it is rated at 51 mpg city, 48 mpg highway.

Inside Line Review

What we know about the Honda Fit Hybrid can be gleaned from enthusiast websites as well as in a carefully written "Inside Line" overview published in October 2010. That review was based on a test drive of the Fit Hybrid in Japan, a car powered by the same 1.3-liter engine used in the Honda Insight. As the publication's "first drive" review reported, the Fit Hybrid is 220 pounds heavier than the standard model and also carries a $4,000 price premium. That puts the Fit Hybrid in $20,000 territory, some $2,000 more than the Honda Insight.

Pricing alone should explain why this subcompact hybrid won't be crossing the Atlantic anytime soon. Honda doesn't want to create competition for its Insight and the Fit Hybrid simply doesn't offer equivalent fuel economy to the larger Prius. Honda also needs to upgrade its hybrid technology to offer a more fuel efficient alternative to Toyota technology. For now, Honda hybrid shoppers need to be content with the Civic and Insight, even if this subcompact hybrid isn't suitable for stateside retail.

Matthew C. Keegan is editor and publisher of "Auto Trends Magazine." Matt is also a contributing writer for Andy's Auto Sport and affiliated websites, an aftermarket supplier of quality auto parts including vertical doors and cat-back exhausts.

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2011 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid

The 2011 hybrid Chevrolet Tahoe is a fuel efficient and competent sports utility vehicle. This car ranks first among the eight affordable big SUVs. The Tahoe has enough space for nine passengers and it offers a better fuel economy rate and towing ability. According to many reviewers this is the best SUV in the present market. The vehicle has an inviting and comfortable interior. The hybrid vehicle is powered by a V-8 engine that has a displacement of 5.3 liter and produces 320 horse powers and torque of 335 pounds. This is definitely an improvement on the fuel economy which puts this car ahead of its rivals. This highly fuel efficient car offers an impressive 23 mpg in the highways and 20 mpg in the city.

With the 320 horse power the 2011 Chevrolet Tahoe has an effortless towing capacity of 8500 pounds and is perfect for a family out on a winter vacation with the snowmobiles or a fishing expedition. The car can also accommodate cargo of 108.9 cubic feet and the 271 off road suspension is really helpful for people riding the SUV on a rough terrain. The Chevrolet Tahoe hybrid car comes with a package that includes mono tube shocks, springs, skid plate wheel flares and an automatic locking system. Apart from this there are other essential features like recovery hooks, aluminum wheels, chrome grille and assist steps.

The all new 2011 hybrid Chevrolet Tahoe possesses the wireless Bluetooth technology which helps the driver to communicate comfortably by holding the steering wheel. When the call commences the music system is also muted by it. The well known OnStar navigation system helps the driver in driving effortlessly and easily to the destination, as he is guided by an automatic voice accurately at every turn. The XM NavTraffic works together with the GPS system for showing traffic updates. A clear and balanced audio is provided by a surround sound system from Bose.

The 2011 Chevrolet Tahoe is well equipped with safety features that include six air bags, one safety cage, and crash response system along with many other features. The Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid can be a good choice if you want to save money on fuel. The pricing of this SUV ranges from $37,144 to $53,325. Overall this vehicle remains an excellent option for families who require space, comfort, performance and the latest technology. The 2011 hybrid Chevrolet Tahoe will fulfill all these requirements.

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Honda Insight Hybrid - Insight Passenger Vehicles

In 1999, the 2000 Honda Insight became the first hybrid car available in the U.S. Prior to its release, attempts at mass-producing environmentally friendly cars had focused on creating electric cars, as the hybrid technology of dual power systems was thought to be impractical. However, electric cars failed to meet the high expectations of consumers and so never made a break into the market.

Considered the most fuel efficient vehicle ever sold in America, this little two-seater gets nearly 70 miles per gallon.

Interest in the Insight was high in the first few years. As Honda and other manufacturers began to produce hybrid vehicles that looked more like standard vehicles (the Honda Civic Hybrid and Toyota Prius), the popularity of the Insight fell and in 2006, production was stopped completely.

What made the Insight different?

Being the first hybrid car on the American market made the Insight a novel product. It won many awards, ranging from the Sierra Club's Excellence in Environmental Engineering Award to International Engine of the Year. The Insight combined hybrid technology with a design that was based on being as fuel efficient as possible.

The breakthrough teardrop design of the Insight's body kept wind resistance to a minimum and the undercarriage was laid out in a way to keep the area as smooth as possible, further increasing the car's aerodynamic properties.

The body was made of aluminum alloy, making it much 47% lighter than a standard vehicle. Despite aluminum's light weight, this car was still extremely safe. In a crash, the front and back ends of the car were designed to absorb the impact and crumple, while the passenger area stayed rigid. The 2006 Insight received a four-star safety rating in front, side and roll-over crashes.

Unique tires were also created for the Insight to keep resistance to a minimum. However, since the car is no longer in production, some Insight owners are finding these tires and other replacement parts more difficult to come by.

Being one of the first hybrids in the U.S., educating drivers on how the technology worked was key. One of the ways the Insight did this was with digital dashboard displays that showed the driver how their MPG fluctuated as driving conditions changed. This was meant to keep the driver involved and engaged with how their car was performing.

Buying a used Honda Insight.

You can find a used Insight ranging in price from $14,000-$20,000. Honda also has a certified selection of pre-owned hybrid vehicle Insights on their website. Another great source to start searching for used Insights is automotive.com. If you own one of these small, green two-door hatchbacks and you're searching for Honda Insight parts or accessories, I would recommend you try eBay Motors. Since this model is now discontinued, if you're thinking about buying a used Insight, especially one with high miles, make sure you do your homework to avoid any problems you might have finding parts and/or local service. I don't expect that you will have any issues with either one.

Jeff Carey is a green vehicle enthusiast who manages a portfolio of more than 60 hybrid and electric blogs. Learn more and subscribe to his monthly newsletter at http://www.hybridkingdom.com/.

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Cadillac Plug-In Hybrid Plans In Doubt

One of the more significant auto trends developing in summer 2011 and beyond are the number of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles arriving on the market. Ford and Toyota are getting vehicles to the market first, with Hyundai, Chrysler, Mercedes, BMW, Honda, Nissan and others expected to follow. GM will offer up at least one model, but it won't be the anticipated Cadillac crossover some had expected. In May 2011, GM canceled the project, citing cost as the main reason.

PHV Technology

Plug-In hybrid electric vehicles are not cheap to build as these models require a significant investment from the automaker without a guarantee that that buyers will embrace these vehicles. The advantage of a PHV -- or PHEV as called by some -- is that you can plug one in at home via a standard outlet. Some models, including the upcoming Toyota Prius Plug-In can be recharged in as few as three hours with a regular 120v outlet. If you have a 240v outlet, then recharging times are cut in half.

Cadillac had been expected to get some sort of hybrid or electric model to supplement its fleet, and was originally tabbed with getting a lux version of the Chevrolet Volt. That initiative was scrapped, but was followed up with a PHV crossover that would have been based on the SRX. However, GM wasn't prepared to commit money to a project with no certain upside available. Besides, the Chevrolet Volt itself is a costly endeavor, one that has cost GM hundreds of millions of dollars to launch and maintain.

Buick eAssist

What seems likely for Cadillac is getting some version of the eAssist hybrid technology slated to appear in the Buick Lucerne and Buick Regal later this year. This "partial" hybrid works with a small electric motor that offers part time hybridization, but at a lower cost than a standard hybrid system. The advantage for the consumer is twofold: fuel economy rises by about 25 percent and costs are about half that of what full hybrid owners pay.

This could mean that the current Cadillac SRX model itself will benefit from the Buick hybrid. Installing such a system could bump up fuel economy to 35 mpg on the highway, giving Cadillac a hybrid to compete with the Lexus and one that simply isn't an Escalade.

Cadillac Choices

In any case, GM will have to come up with a new plan for Cadillac as it faces increasingly stiffer fuel economy requirements courtesy of the federal government. A PHV, electric vehicle or partial hybrid would offset the gas guzzler Cadillac Escalade, but only a partial Buick-inspired hybrid system seems cost effective.

Matthew C. Keegan is editor and publisher of "Auto Trends Magazine." Matt is also a contributing writer for Andy's Auto Sport and affiliated websites, an aftermarket supplier of quality auto parts including body kits and Chevy Camaro wheels.

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Fisker Karma, A Luxurious Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle

The Fisker Karma is the most luxurious and high end PHEV available for sale in the United States. Electric cars haven't always been the most comfortable vehicles to drive, but Fisker Automotive is changing that with the Fisker Karma. People who crave luxurious cars can finally have the best of both worlds; the green energy of an electric auto and the magnificent driving experience they want.

Fisker Karma plug-in hybrid electric vehicles are rolling off an assembly line in Finland.

Former Aston Martin designer Henrik Fisker proudly unveiled his original Karma PHEV at the 2008 North American International Auto Show. It was an exciting concept, and it set the bar for other manufacturers. Going into 2012, the Karma is ready for full production, and it promises to be a very exciting year.

Valmet Automotive, current manufacturer of the Porsche Cayman and the Porsche Boxster sports cars, will be proudly assembling the Karma Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle. Buyers can rest assured that their cars have been assembled by teams of highly skilled and professional artisans who have years of experience behind them.

Funding rescheduling forced Fisker Automotive to delay the release date of the Karma by two years. Originally slated to hit showroom floors in late 2009, the company now has initial deliveries scheduled for March 2011. President Obama has a clear goal of seeing one million electric vehicles on the roads by the end of his administration. Together with Gov. Jack Markell, Fisker Automotive was lent $550 million to help them get the cars into showrooms. The Karma sports sedan retails at $96,000 and has already rolled off Finland assembly line. The company's goal is to produce 115,000 cars over the next few years, and experts question if that goal is perhaps a little too aggressive.

Fisker Automotive, however, is undeterred. Not only did they roll out the Karma S convertible, a hardtop and stylish two door convertible, at the 2009 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Michigan, they are also planning another luxurious green auto called the Nina. The Nina Fisker will be a modestly priced $50,000 sedan and the Boxwood Road plant will have the honor of producing it. The company is also planning on releasing an SUB and a coupe in the next few model years.

These are all lofty goals for a company that is essentially brand new and just getting started. Even wit the government assistance being provided and the incredibly exciting cars they are going to offer, it is still a challenge. The technology is revolutionary, and not yet fully embraced. Some analysts feel that the venture is doomed to failure, given the high price tags and the lack of public awareness about what these cars can really do.

The Karma is a brilliant electric luxury car, and it needs brilliant marketing to get the target audience into the showrooms. It's important that Fisker Automotive review the fate of the Smart Fortwo vehicle. A great design, the marketing was not effective and the sales proved to be lower than anticipated.

Three long years have passed since Henrik Fisker lent his experience designing Aston Martins to creating a luxurious plug-in electric hybrid vehicle. The road has been long and challenging, and it would be truly tragic to see it dead-end in failure due to ineffective marketing. The Karma features a 2.0-litre direct-injection and turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine that is actually produced by GM. The power is a strong 257bhp and the engine is designed to run at maximum efficiency as much as possible. The combustion engine actually works to feed a generator which then power the two drive motors.

Each drive motor creates 105kW of energy. The primary power source is the 20kWh lithium-ion battery pack, which consumes the aluminum backbone chassis. Plugging in the battery for an eight hour charge cycle will create enough stored energy for drivers to run about 300 miles, more than enough to run their errands the next day. Charging the hybrid to full power will cost about $3.00 each time.

Unlike other electric cars that are weak on power, the Karma can hit 60 mph in an impressive 4.6 seconds. The top speed is 125 mph, but there is a 90-second over-boost that will allow the driver to go up to 143 mph. The early figures on fuel consumption show that the vehicle will travel anywhere from 81 to 118 miles on a single gallon of gas. Naturally, how aggressive you are with the accelerator determines how far that gallon of gas will take you, and how often you will need to visit the corner gas station.

Those people who are striving to conserve as much power as possible can also choose the truly eco-friendly 'Stealth-mode'. When this is used, the electric luxury car will require about 6.5 seconds to reach sixty miles per hour, and the top speed will be a still-impressive 95 mph. The Karma can go fifty miles before producing any emissions when driven in ideal circumstances. This mode also prevents the engine from turning on at all unless the batteries are low and it is truly needed.

There are some other interesting aspects of this fine sedan. When batteries are fully charged, and it is coasting down a hill in regeneration mode, there is nowhere for the surplus energy to actually go. Therefore it goes to work turning the engine at a very low rpm. The vehicle is a lightweight 959 pounds, but getting that metal to move still requires a bit of power. To prevent the tires from squealing and twisting, the ESP switches to overload, helping to save the tires and extend their life. The ESP calibration is being fine-tuned, but this is a fine feature that is very exciting and revolutionary.

The Karma also has double-wishbone suspension in both the front and rear with self-leveling dampers in the back of the vehicle. The sub-frames are isolated and the tires are specifically made for these vehicles. They have taller sidewalls, creating a softer, more luxurious ride. Rack-and-pinion hydraulic steering with power assist makes it easy to maneuver. From lock to lock on the steering wheel is 2.7 turns, making the car fun and exciting to handle. The braking systems have been reviewed and are found to be fantastic at getting the car to stop smartly and safely.

The Fisker Karma has been much anticipated. Three years of waiting is finally nearing an end, and this luxurious and environmentally friendly sedan will be hitting showroom floors. Inexpensive to drive, with impressive range and a truly luxurious feel, this auto will be exciting to drive. With more exciting models being released, including the Nina Fisker and the Karma S convertible, there is a lot to be excited about. Owners are sure to ride in them proudly and often. It is the perfect vehicle for any lover of luxury automobiles who also cares about protecting the environment.

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2011 Toyota Camry Hybrid

Toyota, one of the leading names in the automotive industry, has always impressed the customers with their latest features and designs. They have been constantly improving their cars. After the last renovation of the Camry in the year 2007, the Japanese car manufacturer is rebranding the car as 2011 hybrid Toyota Camry with new features and designs.

This car will compete in the market with the Ford Fusion, the Hyundai Sonata and the Honda Accord. Designed in the form of the compact sedan with four doors, the car will roll out in different models starting from the basic model to the latest premium XLE.

The architecture of the all new 2011 hybrid Toyota Camry is done on the basis of the dimension of the older models but it has some minor changes. The new model is expected to have a bigger wheel base that facilitates the luxurious cabin area. The styling is designed in an aero-dynamical way and involves a lower roof line. The level of ground clearance will also be reduced which will give a comfortable transit. A sleek look is offered to the vehicle by this design and it makes the appearance bolder.

With its metallic front the car is capable of generating a momentum of 169 horse power. This is provided with a displacement of 2.5 liters along with 4 cylinders that are incorporated with sixteen valves and they operate on the DOHC technology. The 2011 Camry hybrid car from Toyota will be assembled with a V-6 engine that is powered for producing 268 horse power of momentum. These two mechanisms of engine are mated with a manual transmission of six-speed. It will also give the driver the chance to choose the automatic transmission. Fluency is achieved by these engines with the system of front wheel drive. The engine with a displacement of 2.5 liters provides the car enthusiasts with an ultimate performance of about 34 mpg on the highways and 33 mpg on the streets of the city.

This all new 2011 hybrid Toyota Camry offers the customers with a wide range of optional as well as standard features. The standard features involve power windows and power locks. The dashboard has an elegant look with its telescopic and tilt steering wheel, that is preloaded with USB connections and audio system controls. The driver's seat can be easily adjusted. The car also has some innovative features for safety like the override technology.

This sophisticated looking car from Toyota is priced between $21,400 and $25,700. The reputation of Toyota has been well supported by the innovative design of the 2011 hybrid Toyota Camry.

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Hybrid Vehicles Are Taking Over

Just a short time ago, hybrid automobiles seemed like something far off in the future that no one would ever really drive - almost like some sort of space car. Now, they are actually becoming more and more popular with drivers, as they start to realize the advantages of these vehicles greatly outweigh the positives. Hybrids are becoming more affordable as well, easily comparable to the price you pay for other vehicles of the same style that are not hybrids.

By using at least two energy sources in order to power a vehicle, hybrid automobiles can help their owners save money month after month when it comes to paying for gas and filling up at the pump. Even though these vehicles still require gasoline in order to function, they also operate using battery power from that of an electric battery. Another common type of hybrid vehicle is called plug-in-electric vehicles. These are actually plugged in to be charged, or they charge as the vehicle runs while it is being driven somewhere.

Hybrid vehicles not only ease the pain at the pump, but they also are much better for our environment. They produce less emissions than a typical vehicle and are crafted in a special aerodynamic shape that allows them to be less wind-resistant. Some hybrids are even made out of special material that allows for the majority of its parts to be easily recycled once the vehicle is no longer used or too old to be driven any longer.

Popular models of hybrid vehicles include the Honda Civic, Honda Insight, Toyota Camry, Toyota Prius, and Lexus RX 450h. Each of these automobiles offer top-of-the-line features, great gas mileage, and a promise to help their owners save money in the long run. With the non-hybrid version of these vehicles being some of the most popular ones on the market, it only made sense for the auto companies to start manufacturing them in hybrid form, to offer that option to their customers as well.

What once appeared to be something too futuristic to imagine has now turned into a very viable and realistic option for those seeking to purchase a new vehicle. Hybrid automobiles have become incredibly popular, and for good reason - who isn't looking to save some money as they fill up their gas tanks and watch their savings drain? While hybrids won't completely solve the problems associated with high gas prices, they sure can help to ease that pain and save owners a decent chunk of change.

Lexus Long Island specializes in new and used Lexus car sales, certified Lexus service/parts and useful information regarding Lexus vehicles. Lexus of Smithtown is located in Long Island, New York.

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The Benefits of a Hybrid Vehicle

Hybrid vehicles continue to rise in popularity, with sales numbers slowly rising as individuals look for cars that are considered "green" and environmentally friendly. There are plenty of pros and cons to owning these vehicles as compared to other vehicles on the road. Understanding the full benefits of ownership will help you to decide whether or not this style of vehicle is what you need.

Understanding the Technology

To understand the benefits of ownership, you must understand how the technology works. They use a combination of clean energy and the regular gasoline energy that older vehicles rely on. An electric motor provides some of the energy needed to run the vehicle, combining with the energy of the gas motor to power the vehicle.

Gas Mileage

When there is an electrical power component to the engine, your vehicle needs less fuel to perform the same actions than it would need if there was no electrical power component. Simply put, your vehicle will not use as much gas under normal driving conditions. You will be able to get more miles per gallon because your vehicle is more efficient with fuel use.

Emissions

Electric power is recognized as clean energy, as there are no chemicals and no fumes that are created when the energy is used. They do have some emissions, as the gas that they use for part of their power burns. With that being said, the emissions of the vehicle are lessened, a benefit touted by those who focus on the environment and the damage that car emissions have on our health and on global warming.

Rebates

State governments and the federal government continue to push them as the way of the future. One of the ways that they do so is through the incentive of tax rebates. Individuals will receive money back on the purchase of their vehicle if they purchase one. This allows the hybrid vehicle companies to charge what they would normally charge for the technology while making the car more affordable for those interested in purchasing them. Rebates change by year and by area, so check with car dealers to fully understand the current benefits you may receive.

Safety and Power

Contrary to popular belief, they can be powerful. Because the vehicles do not fully rely on electricity (like electric cars), they still feature the strength and power that current fuel technology brings to the table. As far as safety is concerned, they are just as safe as all other vehicles. They feature the same safety mechanisms found in traditional vehicles. One of the benefits of a hybrid vehicle is the fact that you know your vehicle can still have both power and safety while being green and environmentally friendly.

Hybrid vehicles are the future of vehicle technology, helping to pave the way for vehicles that will run on electricity alone. These vehicles provide owners with higher gas mileage numbers while allowing them to reduce their impact on the environment. The benefits of ownership make the switch to hybrid worth it for many who are in the market for a new vehicle.

If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsideautopros.com/.

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What Is the Function of a Battery System in Exotic Hybrid Cars?

Hybrid exotic vehicles are the result of car makers becoming conscious of the truth that consumers are getting more and far more environmentally conscious nowadays. Reports about the dangers of carbon emissions and also the exacerbation of climate change have given rise to a renewed curiosity about the manufacture of a more fuel efficient exotic auto.

The term 'hybrid' really should clue a layman in on what the deal is about with this type of cars. A hybrid is a joining together of two alike and yet various things to form a new item that has equal amounts of every original item's traits and benefits. In the matter of a hybrid exotic automobile, this refers to its energy source. Hybrid exotic vehicles draw its power from two different sources-from a gasoline engine and an electric engine.

The gasoline engine is plainly powered by gasoline fuel, while the electric engine hinges on the power of rechargeable batteries in order to function efficiently. At low exotic car speed, the hybrid depends on the electric engine set up on rechargeable batteries to maintain it moving. Whereas, when accelerated speed is needed, the gasoline engine kick sets out to do its job.

This is fundamentally how it works: when you set about the exotic automobile, the gasoline engine naturally comes to life, but if you keep it idle for a particular time, the gasoline engine will automatically turn off to let the electric engine keep your car active.

If you ultimately make up your mind on where you would like to visit and you actually drive the automobile at a certain speed, the electric engine in turn will crumple to gasoline engine for a smoother drive.

Exotic cars with this sort of dual-engine system will economize on a fortune for fuel, especially when they're regularly stock in visitors. Envision being in position to turn off the gasoline engine on your exotic vehicle without winding up stalling

the traffic as soon as your lane moves on ahead. The electric engine will help keep your automobile in sync with the slow moving traffic without wasting a drop of fuel from the gasoline engine.

There are in reality two main types of hybrid engine systems that are available for exotic cars nowadays:

•Parallel Hybrid. In this sort, the electric engine and the gasoline engine are both coupled to the car's gearbox or transmission. This enables each and every engine to work or shut off alternately by themselves based on the signals they get from the gearbox.

•Series Hybrid. The gasoline system is coupled to the generator liable for charging the battery of the hybrid auto. This suggests that the gasoline engine can aid in boosting up the electric engine for an instant pick up.

Hybrid exotic vehicles depend heavily on the rechargeable batteries in the electric engine. The batteries act as containers for the storage of energy, as would a fuel tank stores some energy source from its gasoline engine. When the automobile is moving, power is then summoned from the batteries as a way to power the car's motor. The car's motor then will send any excess energy back to the batteries which successively will recharge them. This cycle carries on so long as the car keeps moving.

This implies that while the hybrid exotic cars are running, their batteries are constantly becoming recharged to provide more energy to move the motor car and get recharged too in the process. It's a sort of symbiotic cycle that is sure to maintain your hybrid car busy.

To read more about cars and see some of the most exotic cars in the world, visit thesupercars.org and along the way, have a look at exotic sports cars.

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The Benefits Of A Hybrid Car

Global pollution, which is largely caused by motor vehicles, has exceeded the permitted level. Oil prices also have increased significantly over the last 5 years. Recently many car manufacturers have started to produce cars with hybrid technology to overcome these problems.

Hybrid technology reduces fuel consumption, and produces less pollution. This green technology has the potential to replace the conventional petroleum based energy technology. It was first developed more than a hundred years ago. The first car equipped with hybrid technology was built in the year 1950. In the last decade, car manufacturers have shown significant improvements on hybrid technology. Many types of hybrid vehicles have been unveiled in many car exhibitions or motor shows. Some are already out in the market.

There are many advantages of hybrid cars, and below are some you know need to know:

1. Hybrid technology helps reduce fuel consumption significantly. This ground breaking technology combines the use of electricity and fuel to run a car. As a result of this, a hybrid car use up to 50% less fuel than gasoline powered cars. With reduced fuel consumption, you can reduce your monthly expenses as well.

2. Hybrid vehicles only produce 30% of the amount of emissions produced by conventional vehicles. This means less air pollution, which is good for the Earth. Air pollution is one of the main causes of global warming. When you use a hybrid car, you help slow down global warming. Perhaps some people are still not aware that global warming has caused numerous natural disasters, extreme weather changes, and rising sea levels. You do not have to wait for the government to take actions against global warming. You can start acting now to help slow down global warming by using a hybrid car.

3. If you buy a hybrid car, the government will give you tax incentives. The government encourages their citizens to use hybrid cars as a means of reducing pollution by granting tax credits for green technology users. The amount of incentive given varies depending on the type of the car. You can ask car dealers for more information about the tax credit policy.

4. Besides reducing monthly gasoline expenses, cars with green technology can reduce maintenance cost, because it needs less maintenance than conventional cars. Although hybrid cars are a little bit expensive than ordinary cars, they are more economical in the long run. Sooner or later, the prices of hybrid cars will decrease. When that time comes, they will be affordable for anyone.

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