Hybrid Cars

Hybrid vehicles have many benefits to saving fuel, and this was the main focus when automotive engineers began designing hybrid vehicles. Hybrids get a better gas mileage because cars use the most fuel when starting from a dead standstill as the engine must overcome the weight of the vehicle and the rolling resistance of the wheels. Auto manufacturers are making hybrid versions of their gasoline only cars, which do get better gas mileage, but before purchasing a hybrid version, know all the facts.

Hybrid versions of gasoline cars will typically cost about $5,000 more on the sticker price. At gas prices around $5 per gallon, it will take you over 100,000 miles to regain the extra $5,000 cost in the vehicle. The extra cost includes the electric motor system, battery and regenerative braking system in the vehicle.

As the car ages, there have been cases where the battery needs replacing in the vehicle which can cost up to $6,000. The potential extra cost for owning a hybrid vehicle can be that of 11,000 more over the life of the vehicle. Some hybrids have never had their battery replaced while some have had it replaced before 100,000 miles. The regenerative braking system in the car does limit the wear and tear on vital vehicle components, but it is unlikely that the cost of the battery and vehicle maintenance will even out.

Hybrid cars are made of lighter weight materials than the gasoline only cars and also feature low rolling resistance tires. The main goal of a hybrid is to limit fuel consumption, but the lighter weight vehicle can be a problem when experiencing cross winds.

The low rolling resistance tires also have some pros and cons associated. The tires are inflated to a higher pressure, which puts less contact of the tire on the road. The tread of the tire is also much more simple to decrease wind resistance when the car is driving. This can be a safety issue when making evasive maneuvers or cornering in the hybrid vehicle. In fact, Honda has opted to use a higher performance tire and has quit using low rolling resistance tires.

Is increased fuel economy worth a hot and sweaty ride? Many hybrids do not come with air conditioning because the compressor is attached to the engine within the pulley system. When engaged, air conditioning decreases the fuel economy of the car, therefore many hybrid cars simply do not come with the option of climate control. If desired, this is an extra cost to the ticket price.

Lightweight materials were used throughout the vehicle to limit body weight all the way down to the seats used inside the car. The foam is very lightweight, but in order to keep its form, it must be of a more rigid material. The downside to the seats used is they are hard on the body and not very ergonomic. There have been many incidences about drivers complaining about poor comfort when driving or riding inside a hybrid vehicle.

If fuel economy is the number one concern, a hybrid is a perfect choice for anyone trying to play their part in limiting fuel consumption and enjoying a fuel mileage of 40+ mpg. For people seeking a higher technology version of their current car, it would be a good idea to fully research all pros and cons associated with owning a hybrid vehicle.