Any Prius owners?

Question

Do any Prius owners really think these hybrid cars are really eco-friendly, or have they all been conned?

Answer 1

Absolutely, they reduce greenhouse gas emissions significantly compared to comparable models, plus the added materials to make the batteries are completely recyclable and will be put to use after the useful life of the vehicle. Real-world testing has shown the cars to achieve near-EPA mileage ratings and batteries have been shown to last the lifetime of the vehicle if not longer in most cases. Hybrids have great ability to give back to the environment as well as the driver. The added upfront cost pays itself back within several years with the help of federal and state tax credits. Even if it took ten years, when was the last time a $3000 navigation system paid for it's initial price? A hybrid powertrain is simply another option you can add to many vehicles. It, however, does give back to the driver, while taking less from the world.

Answer 2

Prius, being a hybrid car, is more eco-friendly than an electric car in terms of well-to-wheel fuel consumption and exhaust emissions. This is mainly due to the feedstock currently used for electricity production all over the world. The hybrid vehicles seem like the best eco-friendly transportation until we find a sensible renewable method for electricity production. The ultimate solution may be achieving "hydrogen economy" but it is impossible without a total independence of renewable energy supply.

Answer 3

The prius requires no more energy to make than a regular car, yet it uses a lot less gas. It's eco friendlier because it uses less gas and it is a PZEV vehicle. Other cars can also be PZEV, which has little to do with they hybrid power train.

I bought a Prius because it is an awesome car. I use less gas (less cost), I have a ton of room, incredible reliability, and it has all kinds of gadgets, which I enjoy. It is not an expensive car, especially with the tax credit calculated in.

Bottom line, a great car regardless of its eco-friendliness, but eco-friendly it is.