Benefits of Hybrid Electric Cars

The first thing that comes to mind when talking about hybrids is fuel economy. These vehicles use a combination of a typical gasoline engine and a motor charged by on-board batteries. The battery-powered motor is engaged when driving at slower speeds, such as the stop-and-go movements associated with navigating through heavy traffic. When traveling at higher speeds, the gasoline engine takes over. In this way, hybrid electric cars yield amazing gas and mileage savings for owners. In fact, most people report having to refuel their vehicles after 400 or 600 miles, which is absolutely incredible these days.

As I research these cars it is easy to see that we are moving toward a future with more efficient cars the cause much air and noise pollution. The less gas they burn the less they will damage the air quality we all live with. It will also lower our dependence on foreign energy supplies that are expensive and create a huge transfer of our wealth to other countries. It looks to me like these new transportation technologies have far reaching benefits to everyone. Less pollution, less noise, less money, less dependence on foreign resources. In the US, I'm sure that our largest import is foreign energy sources. If we could decrease those imports by using less gas, it would have a tremendous financial impact on our economy. The same holds true for all oil importing countries.

A third benefit of driving hybrid electric cars is that the purchase can qualify for some tax credits. That's true as of the date of this writing, at any rate. For example, buying a Ford Fusion or Mercury Milan results in $3,400 worth of tax credits, while a Ford Escape or Mazda Tribute can yield an extra $3,000 in savings. Just be aware that these credits usually come with an expiration date, and vary from model to model, so you'll have to check with your dealer before buying just to make sure the savings are still available.

Overall, the advantages of driving hybrid electric cars definitely outweigh some of the initial concerns, which include higher sticker price and repair fees should something break down. I think I've pretty much convinced myself that this is the kind of vehicle I'm going to buy next. Now I just have to settle on a particular make and model and go from there!



For more complete information about how to increase gas mileage go to GasMileageResearch.org.