Hybrid Cars FAQ

Even with everything you’ve heard, read and seen about hybrid cars, you still may not be able to get a full grasp on it. But before you go out to purchase your new hybrid, take a look at the following quick FAQ to help you better understand or remember the things you may or may not have heard and how a hybrid car works:

Not all hybrids are created equal-Some hybrids, like the Honda Civic Hybrid currently achieve a fuel economy of 49 miles per gallon in the city. But other hybrids, like theChevy Malibu Hybrid, only achieve 24 miles per gallon in the city. In terms of fuel economy, that’s a pretty big difference and a pretty big deal, especially since the Chevy Malibu Hyrbid, at $22,790 MSRP, costs more than the Honda Civic Hybrid, at $22,600 MSRP.

Hybrids cost more than conventional cars- If you’re thinking about purchasing a new vehicle and want to spend around $18,000 you may need to choose something other than a hybrid unless you find a killer deal. Most hybrids start at around $20,000 and are typically $3,000 to $6,000 more than their conventional counterparts. Additionally, the starting price doesn’t even come close to reflecting what you’re actually going to pay for your hybrid since many optional items, paint and upholstery protectants and extended warranties can cost up to thousands of dollars.

Your expenditure on gas will be reduced- Hybrids use half the amount of gas that conventional vehicles use because they depend on two sources for power, gas and electricity. Because your vehicle will use less fuel, you will have to fill up less often, hence, the savings on gas.

Hybrid cars are better for the environment-No car that burns gasoline is great for the environment, but hybrids go a long way to reduce the effects of greenhouse gases on the environment and the world in which we live. A hybrid car can produce up to 90% fewer emissions than a conventional car, which means less smog, less damage to the ozone layer and less damage to your health. Since hybrid cars are beneficial to the environment, owners receive tax incentives as described below.

Hybrid cars have tax and other benefits- If you drive a hybrid car, you may be able to park at parking meters and in parking garages for free, drive in the HOV or Toll lane for free and even qualify for tax credits. Watch the tax credits, though. Once a vehicle has hit 60,000 purchases, the credits start to go away and you won’t want to miss your chance to get that benefit up to $3,400.

Hybrid cars take some getting used to- Not only is it a little weird getting used to having more spending cash when you have a hybrid, but you’ll also have to get used to having your engine automatically shutting off and starting again at stop lights and being able to hear your music over the engine at a normal volume. Remember, hybrids cars are really just like any other car, but they come with an unnatural amount of benefits for you, those around you and the environment as well.