To Buy Hybrid Cars, Or Not To Buy Hybrid Cars?

That no longer is the question. If Mr. Jim Press, president of Toyota (buy, sell) Motor Sales USA is to be believed, everything will be a hybrid, eventually. Mr. Press proposed that it’s going to be either a gas hybrid, a diesel hybrid, or a fuel-cell hybrid. Hmmmm. Looks like the world is going to be ruled by hybrids, interesting.

But, hey, why buy hybrid cars anyway?

Less resistance to air drag

This is also known as the concept of aerodynamics. A vehicle with designs that allows moving through air effortlessly is easily the least expensive in terms of fuel consumption.  Studies had shown that about half of the energy needed to move a car traveling in a highway is used up by aerodynamic drag.

Car designers have a plethora of techniques for making vehicles glide more easily down a windy highway. Today's more efficient hybrid cars use some of these strategies. To buy hybrid cars meant therefore, as to look for these characteristics.

A hybrid car eats up less air conditioning fuel

Looks like to buy hybrid cars means also to more efficient on air condition. Latest results from valuations of hybrid cars signify a drastically less consumption of fuel while car air condition is open.  “Hybrids got 15 to 27 percent lower fuel economy with the air conditioning on,” according to Jim Francfort, main investigator at the Idaho National Laboratory in Idaho Falls, under the U.S. Department of Energy.

For five years now, Francfort has been evaluating hybrids. When he first came across with hybrid cars in 2001, he was astounded.   While testing the Honda (buy, sell) Insight and the first generation Toyota (buy, sell) Prius (Two hybrids first introduced in the U.S.) Francfort realized immediately the future of these cars. He reportedly said, “It was a new technology and we were trying to learn. We thought we needed to do more tests to understand the impacts on fuel economy, based on how hybrid owners actually drive their cars.”

Low emission level

And of course, to buy hybrid cars means to help the environment. Hybrid vehicles are low emission and fuel efficient. These are some of the characteristics that top the list, actually. Why this is so? A hybrid car recharges its battery while running. This removes the need for regularly plugging the car for an electricity outlet.

Super Ultra Low-Emission Vehicles emit 90 percent of cleaner emission than average new 2002 model car.  Ultra Low-Emission Vehicles however, are cars that emit 50 percent cleaner emission, much lower than a new 2001 model car. Zero-emission cars however, belong only to the family of pure electric vehicles. But they are much expensive to produce, and proved to be impractical as drivers needed to plug these cars regularly.

Also at present, people who would buy hybrid cars will benefit from the Federal State tax deductions. Buying hybrid cars is encouraged because of the long term benefits of minimized fuel usage. Other tax deductions for hybrid car are also available. Some cities several free parking areas for low-emissions vehicles owners.

These efforts seem to be not lost to Americans.  According to an online survey conducted by a research center, ninety percent of the respondents surveyed indicated a willingness to buy hybrid cars the next time they need one. Provided, however, that these cars are comparable in look with they currently own.

In this marketing study, about 46 percent of male respondents and 36 percent of female respondents strongly believed that these hybrid vehicles will perform comparably to all-gasoline vehicles. For these respondents, this is the most important factor. The concern for model, style, and features in these hybrid version is important for female respondents (49 percent), and 35 percent important for male respondents.

Only a handful of respondents, about 10 percent of those surveyed said they would buy hybrid cars with different style, while only 16 percent are willing to compromise on performance features, like horsepower and acceleration.

For price, however, the respondents are willing to compromise. When they’re asked what they would be most willing to sacrifice for more efficient fuel usage for the environment, a common characteristics of hybrids, 45 percent of the respondents indicated the willingness to pay £1,000 to £2,000 or higher for their new hybrid vehicles.

The best hybrid vehicles for the fuel-conscious driver

The demand and availability for hybrid cars has been growing steadily over the years because of the increasing concerns of motorists regarding the price increases of gas. Major automobile manufacturers have come up with their respective versions of hybrid vehicles, and consumers have lots of considerations when purchasing these cars. Of course, price ranks among the most important of those concerns.

To help them decide on which cars to choose, here is a list of some of the best hybrid cars flooding the market today.

1. Toyota (buy, sell) Prius

Considered by many as the top-rated hybrid among them all, because of the presence of a gasoline engine that provides assistance to the electric motor when operating. For slower speeds, it is the electric motor that runs the car, and when the speed acts up, the gas engine takes over the reins.

The mileage for the Prius is estimated at 60 mpg for city-driving speeds and 51 for the highway performance.

Reportedly, the Prius has more spacious interiors compared to its closest competitor, the Honda (buy, sell) Civic hybrid, and they say that the Prius is also better mileage-wise. This bestseller from Toyota (buy, sell) comes with a distinctive exterior that sets it apart from its fellow hybrids belonging to the economy-class.

2. Honda (buy, sell) Civic Hybrid

This hybrid vehicle does not look different from its past models, and it does not stand apart from its competitors. Even though it is always the bridesmaid compared to the illustrious Prius, it has a reputation for higher speed operation, especially on highways.

The Civic also maintains the runner-up status with the Prius when it comes to fuel efficiency, with the Civic chalking up 26 mpg for driving within city range.

3. Ford Escape Hybrid

It is the first Hybrid SUV in the market, another first for Ford Motors. Its success heralded the launching of the Mercury Mariner a year earlier than was intended. This hybrid vehicle produces 28 mpg in combination driving. This gem from Ford is known for its spacious cargo room, its easy maneuverability and its visibility.

Its add-ons include anti-lock brakes and outlet for 110-volts located in the control panel. The Escape Hybrid still reigns supreme above its closest SUV rivals, such as Lexus.

4. Honda (buy, sell) Insight

This hybrid from Honda (buy, sell) may not be as award-winning as its competitors, but the Insight is proving itself as the best one when it comes to fuel economy. It runs on an impressive 60 mpg on city driving, and an awesome 66 mpg on the highway.

Although the Insight is not as comfortable and impressive as the popular sister Civic or the famed Toyota (buy, sell) Prius, it will do best as a second-car, or a commuter vehicle.

Other choices include:

2006 Lexus RX 400h - it is the firs SUV in the luxury level, it is known for its indefatigable power, its cool technology and its fuel efficiency.

2006 Toyota (buy, sell) Highlander Hybrid - it is said to drive better than the common SUV, and gives off great power, but the downside is its lack of gadgets on the dashboard.

Advantages Of Owning Hybrid Cars

More and more people are turning to hybrid cars these days because of their promise of lesser fuel consumption and environmental friendliness. Hybrid cars, because they run on both fuel and battery-powered engines, eat up less fuel, thereby sparing the consumer the pain of falling prey to price pressures in the world oil market. In addition, it also emits significantly less smog pollutants in the air, compared to traditional fuel-operated cars.

Indeed, there are a lot of advantages to owning hybrid cars.

Here are some of the advantages of hybrid cars:

1) Efficiency

Hybrid cars are electrically operated and are thus able to function well and consistently at any motor speed. This is in contrast to conventional gas-powered engines, which tend to produce less power in low revolutions per minute episodes. Hybrid cars do not need to use transmissions to make their engines run at full capacity even at reduced speeds.

2) Economy

One of the advantages of hybrid cars is that the feature called "regenerative braking". Since a hybrid car works using both electric power and fuel power, each can function by itself or conjunction, depending on which is stronger at the time of use. This means that both engines complement each other and do not simply bog one when one of them becomes weaker.

3) Convenience

Because hybrid cars are part battery powered, they do not create huge holes on the pocket, compares to users of traditional cars who feel the pain of the continuing oil price increases. Most hybrid cars, particularly the ones that are made in Japan, are also more compact and lightweight, making them easier to maneuver on the road. Other models, particularly those by American and European car makers also do not deviate from the stylish designs their regular counterparts adopt, so users don't have to feel they are being left out in the style department.

4) Sustainability

Sure, hybrid cars are fairly new, so their immediate impact on the environment cannot be foreseen in the short term. However, over the course of time, the next generations will definitely be thankful for having a clean, pollution free world, thanks to hybrid vehicles.

5) Low road tax

Hybrid cars have very low CO2 emissions, thus their road tax in United Kingdom is very low - around £20. This is another advantage in favour to owning a hybrid car.

6) No congestion fee in London

Did you know that owners of hybrid cars don't pay Congestion Charge in London? If this is not a money saver - £8 pound a day, you do the math! Plus hybrids are very enviroment friendly and extrordinary low rate of noise, you can hardly hear the hybrid engine running.

Most critics say that it is not the time to buy hybrid vehicles because they are expensive. However, when you consider the advantages, you really shouldn't think twice. While you must be discerning in choosing the right model for your needs, this doesn't mean you start hesitating. After all, when more people patronize hybrid cars, manufacturers will see the need to produce more and eventually bring its price at very affordable levels.

A Peek Into 2007 Hybrid Vehicles

Hybrid vehicles have become more popular in the past few years, as drivers are constantly trying to find ways to save on gas costs. Pump prices have rocketed especially after the Iraq war in 2003, as the flow of oil supplies was disrupted. Ever since that year, gas remains expensive and continues to rise due to market turbulence, high demand and conflicts in the Middle East.

Is 2007 the year to jump on the bandwagon for hybrid vehicles? Consider that using hybrid technology will be more expensive compared to purchasing a standard vehicle. Some of the top vehicle makers have already released an impressive line of hybrid vehicles for 2007 that will likely make car buyers scamper to showrooms similar to bored wives going to a mall sale.

The 2007 Toyota (buy, sell) Camry Hybrid

Updated for 2007, the Toyota (buy, sell) Camry Hybrid is a 4-door sedan that can carry 5 passengers. This hybrid vehicle is powered by a standard I4, 2.4-liter hybrid engine boasting of 192-horspeower. This hybrid vehicle achieves 43-mpg in city driving and 37-mpg on highway drives. The Camry has automatic transmission and overdrive is standard.

Initial Impressions

The 2007 Toyota (buy, sell) Camry Hybrid has been lauded for its impressive interior and consumption. However, many users have complained that consumption struggles to achieve as what is advertised by the company. Some even say that this vehicle only achieves 34mpg maximum.

Toyota (buy, sell) has pulled out all the stops for this hybrid vehicle but it comes with a price, and expensive at that. Sold at an average of $29,000 in showrooms across the US. This vehicle is a nice option for those that do not want to scrimp on luxury but save on gas.

2007 Ford Escape Hybrid

A hit vehicle in 2006 that just got better for 2007. The 2007 Ford Escape is a 4-door sport-utility vehicle that can carry a maximum of five passengers. This hybrid vehicle comes in two trims, the 4WD and FWD.

This SUV hybrid is powered by a I4, 2.3-liter, 155-horsepower engine. Can achieve 36-mpg in city driving and 31-mpg in highway driving. Both trims come with transmission is variable speed automatic.

Initial impressions

A favorite among vehicle critics, the 2007 Ford Escape Hybrid for its Interior Space, Fuel Economy, GPS, and Comfort. Fuel Economy is outstanding and most consumers supposedly achieve 35 mpg, which is just below the advertised 36 mpg. However, attaining this type of performance will rely on the skills and behavior of the driver. 2007 might be the year Ford reclaims its dominance in the SUV market with the new Ford Escape.

2007 Mercury Mariner Hybrid

Looking to extend its great run in 2006, Mercury has updated the Mariner Hybrid for 2007. This vehicle only comes in one trim, the 4WD. This hybrid vehicle is powered by an I4, 2.3-liter, 133-horsepower hybrid engine. This vehicle can achieve 33-mpg in city driving and 29-mpg if cruising on the highway.

2007 Lexus GS 450h

All-new for 2007, the Lexus GS 450h is the hybrid that will propel the company in the new year. This hybrid vehicle is a 4-door luxury sedan and comes only in one trim, the Sedan.

The 450h is powered by a standard V6, 3.5-liter, V6, 339-horsepower hybrid engine. This hybrid vehicle can achieve 28-mpg in city driving and 28-mpg when cruising on the highway.

Initial impressions

The 2007 Lexus GS 450h has been lauded for having the best interiors around. Gas mileage is supposedly revolutionary and performance is comparable to the BMW M3.

Demand for hybrid cars has sharply grown over the past three years, as pump prices continue to surge and eating a considerable part of the household budget.

Hybrid cars may not be the complete solution to rising oil prices but they are very economical, as they rely more on electricity instead of gas for power. For 2006, business conditions have remained turbulent. The current crisis in Israel and Lebanon will likely have an adverse effect on oil markets given that they are very near the world’s top oil producers.

Other issues that will keep gas prices high include China’s demand, terrorist attacks on refineries and volatility in stock markets. Is 2006 finally the right time to jump on the bandwagon for hybrid cars? For 2006, the top Japanese car makers Honda (buy, sell) and Toyota (buy, sell) have released an impressive line of hybrid cars that have been updated to conform with the demands of the daily driver.

The hybrid cars for 2006 promises more power behind the steering wheel but gas consumption will be comparable to a child guzzling a bad-tasting cough syrup.

The new Accord Hybrid from Honda (buy, sell) is 4-door sedan ideal for families with 2-3 kids. This car comes in two trims and 5-speed automatic transmission. Overdrive option is standard equipment. For those that enjoy long and leisurely rides, Honda (buy, sell) is offering a Accord Hybrid equipped with a Navigation system.

Both trims are powered by a standard V6, 3.0-liter, 253-horsepower engine. The Accord Hybrid is capable of 25-mpg in city driving and 34-mpg in highway driving.

The Honda (buy, sell) Accord Hybrid is well suited for the highways and boasts of excellent responsiveness and outstanding acceleration.

Initial impressions

The 2006 Honda (buy, sell) Accord Hybrid has been criticized for its disappointing fuel economy but lauded for its outstanding performance especially in fast-driving. The car battery used in the car is relatively low in power and supposed does not effectively maximize the hybrid technology unlike rival models.

Some users have also been critical over the “rough” automatic transmission shifting between gears and poor flawed synchronization between engine and battery.

The new Honda (buy, sell) Civic Hybrid is a 4-door sedan ideal for small families. The vehicle comes in two trims namely the the CVT AT-PZEV w/ Navigation System and the CVT AT-PZEV

A standard I4 1.3-liter 110-horsepower hybrid engine powers the 2006 Civic Hybrid car. This model has the capability to run 49-mpg in city driving and 51-mpg in highway drives.

Initial impressions

The 2006 Civic Hybrid car is a top-notch performer especially for who are looking for the perfect driving experience. The interior has been lauded for its attractive lay-out and design.  Gas consumption is exceptional, as delivers near or slightly above its specifications.

However, the 2006 Civic Hybrid has been criticized more on its ambitious despite. The digital speedometer is a nice new touch but can be distracting especially during night drives. The Civic Hybrid only comes with rear drum brakes, which is disappointing considering that the Civic has been named car of the year.

The hand brake is also placed on odd location and will be discomforting for those with large thighs. The 2006 Civic Hybrid is a “driver’s car” and will perform best when used in the highways.

Updated for 2006, the new Toyota (buy, sell) Prius is a 4-door sedan, ideal for small families. This hybrid car only comes in one trim has a 4-Door Liftback.

The 2006 Toyota (buy, sell) Prius is powered with by a standard I4, 1.5-liter, hybrid engine running 110-horsepower. In city driving, the Prius can achieve 60-mpg and 51-mpg in highway driving.

Initial impressions

The Prius features a spacious interior that can easily fit small families. Ideal for pedestrian drivers but those conscious with performance should stay away, as acceleration is slow. In addition, consumers have also been disappointed over the inability of the car to reach its advertised consumption and high price. For those tht want to save the world the Prius is great but look the other way if you want to save money.