Hybrid Cars Pros And Cons
Tax Breaks
With effect from January 2006, keeping with the new Energy Policy Act, the Federal Government began awarding tax credits to consumers who bought hybrid cars. Buyers of the new gas-electric hybrid cars in the U.S. between 2006 and 2007 were eligible for up to $3,400 in federal tax credits. However, the credits were applicable only to the first 60,000 hybrid cars sold by each automaker.
Effective January 1, 2009, the new tax credit for plug-in hybrid electric vehicles starts at $2,500 and is capped at $7,500 for cars and trucks (the credit is based on the capacity of the battery system). The first 250,000 vehicles sold get the full tax credit. Tax credits are available to buyers of hybrid gasoline-electric, diesel, battery-electric, alternative fuel, and fuel cell vehicles.
Less Pollution
Hybrid cars have been touted as a big step in cleaning up the environment and reducing global warming. The gasoline engine in these cars can be smaller and therefore less polluting, as they are assisted by the electric motor. Hybrid vehicles can reduce air emissions of smog-forming pollutants by up to 90% and cut carbon dioxide emissions by half.
Better Mileage
Gas is very expensive, and we are constantly finding ways and means to reduce our expenditure. One of the biggest advantage of a hybrid car is that it improves mileage, thus reducing the expense on gas. When a hybrid car stops or when it runs on idle mode, it automatically shuts off the gasoline engine. However, the car continues running on the electric motor. An example of Hybrid car mileage is the Toyota Prius, which gives 45 mpg on the highway and up to 53 mpg within the city. Better fuel efficiency also translates into fewer trips to the pump (which is an incentive for many people). Apart from saving money, it also reduces dependency on oil and its byproducts.
Open Roads
Another advantage from the Energy Policy Act is the Federal Hybrid HOV Waiver, which allows states to open their high-occupancy vehicle (HOV) lanes to hybrid cars that get at least 50 percent better fuel efficiency in the city and 25 percent better in combined city-highway miles over conventional models, regardless of the number of passengers in the vehicle. While some states have already implemented it, many others are sure to follow suit.
Better Performance
The dual motors of a hybrid car can yield a better performance than a regular car. The Honda Accord Hybrid and the Lexus GS450h are good examples of high performance hybrids. The electric engine boosts the power performance of the gas engine at lower speeds.
Cons of Hybrid Cars
Cost
There is no doubt that Hybrid cars are more expensive than conventional vehicles. The costly batteries and two separate engines under each vehicle’s hood contribute to the extra cost. While this cost is justified in the long run, the initial extra cost does pinch. Also, at any point of time, replacing a 'hybrid' part of the engine is likely to cost more.
Batteries
A perceived risk is being exposed to the high-voltage battery or its wires during a crash. However, most car manufacturers claim to have minimized this risk, by designing the batteries to shut down in case of an accident.
There are advantages and disadvantages attached to any car you may choose to buy. If you choose to buy a hybrid car, you will be doing your little bit to save the environment. However, also keep in mind that it will benefit you personally only in the long run.
Source: buzzle
