Increasing Need For Hybrid Cars

So you're in the market for a hybrid car and think all hybrids are the same

? Better think again as there are a number of different types of hybrid vehicles available and even more on the way. Buyers need to be informed and realize that hybrid vehicles can be drastically different in terms of both technology and the hit to your checkbook. In the following article I will breakdown the different technologies available and help you determine what is best for you.

Toyota's Versions: The Toyota Camry 2008 hybrid has all the safety and fuel efficiency that this model is known for. At 34 miles to the gallon along the highways, the Camry Hybrid delivers the fuel efficiency and low emission levels expected of hybrids. The Prius, on the other hand, is considered by many hybrid lovers as the lowest-priced hybrid compact there is. Introduced to America around ten years ago, the Prius Hybrid has been resilient in staying on the popularity charts as far as hybrids are concerned. With the highest fuel efficiency ratings and most reasonable prices, the Prius Hybrid takes the credit. In addition to these sedans, Toyota includes in its lineup the 2008 Highlander Hybrid and Hybrid Limited, a great SUV hybrid; then there are the hybrid minivans, the Estima, Sienna, and Previa hybrids.

Hybrid cars operate on a dual mode where the electric motor, powered by batteries, takes over once the gasoline engine has gotten the vehicle up to speed. Braking and deceleration generates energy that is used to charge the electric motor's batteries. This system allows the hybrid car to provide better fuel efficiency. This also means that the engine of a hybrid vehicle is shut the moment the car is stopped. Considered the biggest advantage to the hybrid car is the reduction of environmental pollution due to fewer emissions of carbon dioxide and other harmful gases in to our atmosphere. Automobile manufactures such as Honda, Toyota, and Ford have already introduced hybrid car models to the commercial market and several others are in development.

Currently there are two types of hybrid vehicles on the market. The first is the "Series" hybrid. A battery powered electric motor powers the Series hybrid car. It also has a gasoline powered engine but it does not singularly power the vehicle. The gasoline engine powers a generator which is used in turn to charge the batteries of the electric motor. The electric motor is left on during the vehicles entire operation however the gasoline engine can be switched on or off depending on the needs of the vehicle. This type of hybrid automobile provides better mileage in city traffic.

The second type of hybrid vehicle on the market is called the "Parallel" hybrid. The Parallel hybrid car, like the Series type, has a gasoline engine and an electric motor. The electric motor and the electric motor can both be used to turn the transmission and power the vehicle. The major difference between the two types of hybrid cars is that the Parallel hybrid uses its electric motor to boost the vehicles power when required to increase the car's speed. The Parallel hybrid car is considered better suited for the open highway.

Hybrid automobiles provide several benefits due to some very unique features. The construction of the hybrid vehicle uses more lightweight materials than traditional automobile. This saves energy by using less to propel the hybrid car. Hybrid cars also increase energy efficiency because of their more aerodynamic shapes. Tires used by hybrid vehicles run on a higher pressure and are made of a more rigid material than general car tires. The higher pressure helps to increase the vehicles gas mileage per gallon of gasoline used.

The overall efficiency of the vehicle is increased by these tires because they reduce friction on road surfaces and provided a grip. The braking system provided an energy transfer from the electric motor to the vehicles batteries when ever the brakes are applied. The overall gas mileage of a hybrid varies from model to model. The EPA test numbers report that the Lexus RX400h receives 31 MPG in the city and 27 MPG the highway while the Honda Insight receives 61 MPG in the city and 68 MPG on the highway.

And last but not the least, a hybrid convertible? Yes there is one: the Saab Hybrid convertible, incorporating the Saab Bio-Power concept for fuel savings and better renewable energy harnessing. With all these hybrid cars in the market, the choice is yours.

by: Kendra Lackey

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