The Hybrid Question: Hype or Not?
By Erica Karras
Are hybrid vehicles here to stay? The answer depends on how you define hybrid vehicle .
By definition, a hybrid vehicle can utilize two sources of power instead of one to drive the vehicle. Using this basic definition, many believe that hybrid vehicles will eventually replace their conventional internal combustion-driven counterparts.
However, when people speak of hybrids today, they are usually referring to gasoline-electric hybrids. Since gasoline is made from oil, and oil is a finite resource, I would tend to have a more pessimistic prognosis on the future of these particular types of hybrids.
Don’t get me wrong—I love the associated benefits of fuel savings and low emissions. I also love that hybrids have helped open eyes to critical environmental issues, such as air pollution and global warming, and other socioeconomic issues, such as the politics of oil and national security. I simply think the increased benefits of pairing hybrids with renewable fuels would make a good thing even better. Future hybrids could easily be designed to run off any other alternative fuel. However, with high production costs and low consumer demand, it may be some time before these new-generation hybrids reach the mainstream market.
There are a surprising number of myths and misperceptions surrounding today’s hybrid vehicles, and many people are afraid to ask questions, fearing they may be embarrassed by how far behind the technology curve they are. It’s normal to have questions about hybrid technology; in fact, the answers could help illuminate a brighter, greener, and cleaner future for us all.
Do hybrids need to be plugged in?
No. Driving power is derived either from the gasoline engine or the electric motor. While hybrids can do nifty things like recharging their own batteries by capturing braking energy, the truth is that you still have to fill up the gas tank. Fortunately, due to increased fuel efficiency, fill-ups are less frequent. For example, Toyota advertises an amazing combined city/highway estimate of 55 miles per gallon for the Toyota Prius.
What are the top-selling hybrids?
The Toyota Prius continues to top hybrid sales, accounting for nearly half the new hybrid sales in 2006. Other top sellers include the Toyota Highlander Hybrid and Honda Civic Hybrid.
Is there such a thing as “green luxury”?
Many luxury manufacturers are responding to an increasing demand for vehicles with low environmental impact and high levels of comfort. Lexus leads the luxury hybrid market with the new GS 450h sports sedan hybrid, the popular RX 400h hybrid SUV, and announcements for the release of a 2008 LS hybrid. Mercedes is currently planning the 2008 launch of its S-Class hybrid luxury sedan. Even a Porsche Cayenne hybrid is rumored to launch in 2008 or 2009. Luxury hybrid buyers should realize that the premium price paid for such “green luxury” will not likely be recouped at the gas pumps; however, the good news is they are helping the environment, even from their seat in the lap of luxury.
How much money can I save by owning a hybrid?
Hybrid vehicles cost more than their conventional cousins. Expect to pay several thousand dollars more for the ’07 Honda Civic Hybrid than for a comparable Honda Civic EX. Studies suggest that the savings from reduced gas consumption and available tax incentives may zero out the initial cost bump. This assumes, of course, that hybrid owners keep their vehicles for several years. The true cost of hybrid ownership is the source of some debate, so do your research and the math before you purchase.
What is a Plug-in Hybrid Vehicle (PHEV)?
Today’s hybrids do not need to be plugged in, but researchers are exploring the feasibility of developing plug-in hybrids. The purpose of plugging in to an electrical socket would be to maximize the charge stored in the battery, allowing the vehicle to drive off the electric motor as much as possible. Continued research and development into battery technology will be necessary before PHEVs make their mainstream debut.
Where can I learn more about hybrid vehicles?
Surf automotive Web sites such as Edmunds or Intellichoice, or dedicated hybrid Web sites such as hybridcars.com and greenhybrid.com . Learn more by attending local auto shows and asking around. With over 200,000 units sold a year, chances are that a hybrid owner lives in your neighborhood. If you are interested in a specific hybrid vehicle, visit the manufacturer’s Web site or local dealership.
Where can I learn more about alternative fuels?
The U.S. Department of Energy’s Alternative Fuels Data Center has comprehensive information on alternative fuels, alternative fuel vehicles, fueling stations, and state and federal hybrid incentives. Visit their site at eere.energy.gov/afdc/.
Lexus The 2008 Lexus LS 600h L hybrid will be an all-wheel-drive full hybrid, rendering it able to travel at low speeds under electric propulsion alone. It shares a similar hybrid technology to that found in the Lexus RX 400h Hybrid SUV.
Prius The new Prius Touring Edition sports 16-inch alloy wheels, a rear spoiler, high-intensity discharge headlights, and a sport-tuned suspension. The Prius also gets front-seat-mounted side airbags and two-row side-curtain airbags as standard equipment.
Honda Hybrid Honda’s history of driver-focused design ensures that the 2007 Accord Hybrid will satisfy your inner need for speed with a 253-horsepower V-6 engine. The great news is that performance comes at no sacrifice to economy, because the gas engine is complemented by an integrated electric motor as part of the Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) System.