Hybrids Versus The Internal-Combustion Engine

When hybrid cars were first releases, the price tag was a problem for many consumers, along with the sometimes 3-year waiting list just for the opportunity to purchase one. But now that hybrid cars are mainstream and the price has dropped a bit, we can start weighing the benefits and costs of owning a hybrid versus owning a regular, fuel-driven vehicle:

Initial Cost- Although the price tag for hybrids has dropped substantially since 2003, the initial cost of purchasing the hybrid version of your new car is typically $3,000-$6,000 dollars more than its fuel-driven counterpart.

Creature Comforts- Depending on the car you buy, most hybrids come with “optional” expenses on conventional vehicles as standard features, such as stereo systems, car mats, alarm systems, etc.

Gas Prices- This is probably the most important personal comparison you can make between your regular car and its hybrid counterpart. Because hybrids cars depend on two separate types of energy to power your vehicle, your gas expenses can be cut by 50% or more by purchasing a hybrid over a conventional internal-combustion vehicle.

Repairs- As long as your maintenance and repairs are not battery-related, there is no difference in maintaining a hybrid versus a conventional vehicle. Unfortunately, if your problem is battery related, you may pay heavy expenses out-of-pocket for repairs, and if your warranty is expired or voided a new battery pack can cost you up to $4,000 or more.

Environmentally Friendly- If you pick the right hybrid, and learn to modify your driving habits, a hybrid can be your best vehicle option for staying friendly with the environment. However, if you don’t modify your driving habits, or pick a hybrid SUV, your eco-disastrous emissions may be as high or higher than that of a regular, fuel-dependent vehicle. Additionally, many conventional vehicles now have technology that reduces fuel emissions which helps them to rival hybrids and also earn state government accolades for being environmentally sound.

Acceleration- Some hybrids take time to get going, especially smaller compact hybrids. But larger hybrids, like SUVs and full-size sedans can accelerate faster than fuel-dependent vehicles.

Size- When you go to purchase a vehicle and you are looking for a mid-size, don’t depend on your hybrid to be the same size as its conventional counterpart. For example, a Honda mid-size hybrid may not be as comfortable a fit as its conventional counterpart for a family with three children, one in a car seat.

Taxes & Incentives- The government now offers a credit to taxpayers who purchased a “green” vehicle during the tax year. Many states offer free parking at meters and in parking garages for “green” vehicles. Tax credits may be mostly for hybrids, but don’t think state incentives are reserved only for hybrids as well. Any fuel-efficient vehicle that maintains a certain standard may have incentives offered by the state government.

Remember, hybrids are the car of the future, but until they have been fully integrated into the mainstream consumer society, they may not be the right car for you.