Pros and cons of hybrid cars

Get ready for a sticker shock.

A common complaint about hybrid cars is their asking price. According to Cars.com, the manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) for new model year hybrids ranges from $ 21,100 (Toyota Prius) to $ 104,000 (Lexus LS 600h). Adding all hybrid technology to a vehicle is expensive, and part of that additional cost is passed on to consumers. As an example, the new Toyota Camry is available in various trim levels ranging from around $ 20,000 for the LE trim to over $ 25,000 for the Camry hybrid. The Honda Civic starts at $ 15,000 (DX), while the hybrid version will set you back at least $ 22,600.

So yeah, if you’re short on cash right now, the added cost of going green could be the deciding factor. At the same time, it’s important to consider the long-term savings associated with a hybrid when making a purchasing decision. While the gas-powered Camry only gets around 21 mpg in the city, the hybrid version gets around 33 MPG. That could mean that shelling out the extra $ 5,000 now could save you a lot on fuel costs in the long run. The resale value is also better for the hybrid model.

Burning through the batteries

Another downside to buying a hybrid is the potential problems that could occur with your expensive batteries. Because hybrid technology relies heavily on the electric battery inside the car, buyers are often concerned that these types of batteries will need to be replaced more frequently than a standard 12-volt battery.

Fortunately, nickel metal hydride batteries in hybrid cars charge themselves when the car is not using the electrical power they supply. By avoiding draining the batteries, studies have shown that these batteries typically last as long as those in a standard vehicle. Hybrid vehicle manufacturers also include warranties to cover these batteries for 80,000-100,000 miles. You can learn more about the warranties for different hybrid models here.

Is my footprint really green?

Hybrid vehicle technology is complex and therefore requires a lot of resources dedicated to its production. This means that factories that make hybrid cars are likely generating as much, if not more, pollution than factories that make non-hybrid vehicles.

On the other hand, the impact of those hybrids once they are on the road is much less than that of standard vehicles, which lessens their overall negative environmental impact. So while buying and driving a hybrid doesn’t free you from pollution and CO2 emissions, it does lessen the negative effects.

Am i safe in a hybrid car?

Two characteristics that allow a hybrid to be so fuel efficient, the electric technology and the lower weight of the vehicle, are of concern to some potential buyers. For example, the high voltage required by a hybrid car battery could be dangerous in a collision if the cables are exposed. In addition, the light weight of some hybrids can worry potential buyers who fear that these types of cars will not do well in a collision. Check the safety rating of most hybrid cars here or review the safety of hybrid SUVs here.

Other disadvantages, problems, potential problems and drawbacks of hybrid vehicles include unavailability, slower acceleration, noise and feel of the brakes, the fact that some may be “too quiet” and a lack of options, since most car models are not yet. being built as hybrids.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *