Hybrid Cars
submitted: Aug 23rd 2008 |
by: GrayRollins |
Total views: 1 |
Word Count: 403 |
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We are all concerned about the environment and doing our part to take care of it. Of all the purchases we make, the purchase that will have the greatest impact on the environment will be the car we decide to buy. Hybrid cars are an affordable and innovative way to help protect our environment and benefit from the increased fuel mileage.
While people were skeptical of hybrids at first, they've certainly come around. Major hybrid manufacturers like Toyota can't make enough to keep up with demand and neither can anyone else.
So let's take a look at what a hybrid is exactly. We all know they're more fuel efficient, but why? Well, the hybrid has an electric motor (powered by a battery pack) that helps provide power needed with acceleration. The batteries are charging continuously while you drive.
One cool feature that you find on a lot of hybrids is that when you stop at a stoplight for more than a few seconds, the engine shuts off. Other hybrids will turn off unneeded cylinders when driving on the highway to save fuel.
Hybrids also use a more advanced aerodynamic lightweight body, and combine it with low roll resistant tires that are stiffer and narrower to help reduce drag.
In 2004, out of the 17 million vehicles sold there were around 80,000 hybrid vehicles sold. By 2005 that number had increased by 1.2% to 200,000, and now manufacturers can't keep up with the demand for these vehicles.
There are several hybrids currently available in North America. They include the Honda Civic, Honda Accord, Honda Insight, Toyota Prius, and the Mercury Mariner. There are also Hybrid SUVs available - the Ford Escape, the Lexas 400H and the Toyota Highlander. Pretty much every manufacturer has at least one entry in this market.
Right now the top hybrid on the planet would be the Toyota Prius. There are currently over 1,000,000 Prius' on the road right now.
Every year more and more hybrid models are introduced. 2010 is shaping up to be an especially good year with a slew of plug-in electric hybrid vehicles coming out. Gasoline's days are numbered.
While nobody can say for sure what will be powering our vehicles in 50 years, we can say with certainty that the hybrid is a definite part of our immediate future, and likely will remain a major player for quite some time.
About the Author
Gray Rollins is a featured writer for FuelSavingZone. Learn all about gas saving tips and learn about the best gas cards by stopping by FuelSavingZone.
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