Go Green With A Hybrid

Go Green! Buy a hybrid! This seems to be the trend currently sweeping the nation. The Toyota Prius is the number one selling hybrid out there. Toyota debuted their first hybrid in 1997, however it seems that the car has only recently become the new trend.

How It Works

Hybrids work very differently than other cars. The Prius has both a small gasoline engine and an electric motor. Each turn on depending on the speed of the car. Hybrid cars are intended to reduce the use of fuel, therefore helping the environment and save drivers money. There are two kinds of hybrids out there, full and partial. Full vehicle hybrids use 2 separate power sources to propel. Gas for high speeds, electric for low speeds. Once the car reaches 15mph the gas engine will kick in. This is the system the Prius uses. A partial hybrid has an engine, which shuts off at lights or whenever the driver makes a stop. This will help save gas especially in bumper-to-bumper traffic. Unlike most cars, hybrids get better ratings for city driving due to the constant stopping and going.

Saving Money, Saving Gas

The Toyota Prius gets approximately 60 miles per gallon city driving and 51 miles per gallon high way driving. If you are someone who feels like they are constantly driving and filling their tank, you may want to consider a hybrid. It is also a great way to limit your emissions and help the environment. If you are looking for a larger car the Ford Escape hybrid is the most fuel efficient and affordable SUV on the road.

Prices

Hybrids are usually $4,000 - $7,000 more then a non-hybrid. According to www.hybridcars.com, in a 2007 survey of 118 Prius drivers by Topline Strategy Group, 71 percent of respondents earned more than $100,000 per year. J.D. Power’s 2007 review of auto industry marketing showed that only 2 percent of hybrid owners are 24 or younger; 26 percent are between 25 and 44; 29 percent are between 45 and 54; and 33 percent are 55 and older.

Other Options

If you are not ready for a hybrid however still want a fuel-efficient car there are many to choose from. Honda, Toyota and Chevrolet are just some of the manufactures that have cars that get 25mpg city driving or better. According to www.hybridcars.com soon there will be more sedan, SUV, trucks and mini van hybrids to choose from. Find the one that fits your family and budget.

Other Perks

According to www.fueleconomy.com when purchasing a hybrid you may qualify for a tax incentives. Each car has different dates when the vehicle no longer offers the incentive. Check www.fueleconomy.com to see if the vehicle you wish to purchase offers any incentive.

Help the earth and your wallet!