Questions about Hybrid Cars, Help Please, need some explanations! Thank you!?

Question

Hybrid car stickers and privileges
What kind of privileges do they have?

Hybrid car's effects on Fuel Economy?

Are the new Hybrid cars as efficient as advertised?

Are hybrids worth it in the long run?

Is it worth the money for good mileage?

How does it fit in CAFE standards? is it good?


Can you guys help me, please try to answer not just 1 sentence, i really need help on this, i don't know much about hybrid cars!

ok thankyou!

Answer 1

Sounds like you're in California.

Hybrid cars in CA can apply for sticker that allow them to use the carpool lane even if they only have one driver. However, they are not taking any more applications at this time.

Some are calling for Federal tax credits on hybrid cars, but haven't seen any yet.

Some companies are giving incentives for hybrid car purchase. That depends on the company.

Hybrids are excellent for city driving, where the battery storage makes city driving energy-efficient. However, you likely won't get the super figures you see on the window sticker, but you'll get close. And they really ARE more efficient than their gasoline-powered brothers.

Are they worth it? Hard to say. Economically wise, the premium you pay for a hybrid is about $2000, and you'll need to save a LOT of gas to earn that back. And it's rumored that the batteries are only good for 7 or 10 years, and cost a LOT of replace. Now Toyota is guranteeing their batteries for 10/100K. Not sure what Honda's doing.

Is it worth the money? That would depend on your priorities. In CA, with gas prices higher than the rest, it makes more sense here than elsewhere. In SF Bay Area, prices are getting close to the 4.00 mark.

Generally hybrid cars are ULEV or better on the CAFE rating charts.

Not sure what are you really trying to get at...