Hybrid cars? Good idea? Bad Idea?

Question

If you have one, please let me know how you like or dislike it. Thanks! If not, would you consider buying one?

Answer 1

In general, it's a good idea. (assuming that you're talking about a petrol/electric hybrid, as opposed to a fuel cell/electric or a dual fuel gasoline/LPG...)

Problem is, there's so many different types of hybrids out there. You have the fuel economy hybrids, like the Honda Insight, Honda Civic Hybrid, Toyota Prius, and then there's the power hybrids, like the Honda Accord Hybrid, and then there's the we just slapped a hybrid label on it GM Silverado/Sierra pickups (woo- 42v electrical system that can run electrical outlets in the bed/cab).

But, I guess I shouldn't complain too much about GM's (barely mild) "hybrid" system - at least they're using idle-stop and shutting down some unneeded cylinders in the gasoline engine, which does save some fuel. It's just not a hybrid as the electrical system doesn't propel the car at all.

Power hybrids still have the dual-source petrol/electric propulsion, but they're tuned into giving you more torque and horsepower, rather than better fuel economy. typically they still have better specs for fuel economy AND HP than their gasoline-only cousins, but just not enough for many people to consider the "hybrid price premium" worth it.

Fuel economy hybrids (which are also usually low-emission hybrids) - what's not to like about lowered fuel use? Saves you money at the pump, uses less resources (and the environmental, military, and political issues involved there), and puts out fewer emissions which would otherwise harm the atmosphere and our lungs?

The biggest drawback to hybrids at the moment is the lack of enough models using the technology in the different market segments, and the availability of the manufacturers to produce enough to meet demand.

Battery warranties start at 8 years/80,000 miles (depending on manufacturer and location) and can be higher than that. Recycling programs are in place, with the manufacturers offering bounties on the hybrid battery packs to make sure that they get recycled.

Maintenance on a hybrid is not any different than on a traditional gasoline car, only maybe slightly extended intervals as the gasoline engine doesn't get used as much/hard as if it was doing all the work itself. There are many owners that DIY.

I own a 2001 US Toyota Prius. My mother has a 2002 US Toyota Prius. My husband has a 2004 US Toyota Prius. and yes, we like them. ;-)

Answer 2

I drive the AWD Lexus RX400h. It's very nice. Gas mileage over the first 4000 miles has averaged 25.9mpg. Not bad for a 270hp SUV! At first the city mileage isn't as impressive as you'd think it should be, but then you realize that all the time you're not accelerating, you're coasting...and braking is regenerative (you get power back into the battery) so it's not so bad...The acceleration is nice in the Lexus line, but you're not going to get as much of that in other hybrids...(well, except the Toy Highlander Hybrid which is the same vehicle.) I test drove almost all of them and wasn't impressed by anything on them BUT the mpg...and that wasn't enough for me, so I got the one that's not really much of a hybrid (it's not getting me HUGE increases in gas mileage, but rather modest increases in horsepower with better gas mileage.) I can't imagine going back to a straight gas engine vehicle again.

Answer 3

These cars are highly fuel efficient which = saving a lot of money. If all you look for in a car is to get from point a to point b relatively confortably and cheap, then it's definitely a good investment. If you want performance, then you probably don't want a hybrid.

Answer 4

I have experience to drive Toyota Prius Hybrid car. It is good in driving. but you have to change it's batteries after 5 years. My car was a 8 years old. Now they have new technology and you may not need change of batteries after 5 years. Check this site for more details http://www.batfa.com/new_car_toyota_prius.htm

Answer 5

Most brand new cars are still too new to know the problems from ware and tear.......plus I hear that your tires go bad quick because of the weight of the car.....and they are pretty expensive.
I would not buy one simply because I don't preferr the look.

Answer 6

good idea for saving money and giving back to your environment but they require a bigger deal of maitnence. and you can onyl take them into the manufacture because micanics arnt famlier the new technology

Answer 7

I am not an enviroMENTAList, but I would own one simply due to the high cost of gasoline. Gas prices are killing me! I just wish they would build one that looks safer. Hard to survive an accident in an aluminum can.

Answer 8

sure i'd buy one, i mean if we dont do something to help the environment then we will destroy the planet, also cars are the first cause of polluting

Answer 9

Good Idea if you have the money?