Demographics of the Typical Hybrid Consumer- What Makes Them Tick

More and more people in the market for a new car today are considering the advantages of purchasing a hybrid. The number one reason hybrids are gaining in popularity is due to their smaller, fuel-efficient engines. As prices at the gas pumps continue to soar, many people see the many benefits to driving an "alternative-fuel" vehicle (also known as alt-fuel).

According to a recent survey, approximately 88,000 hybrid vehicles were sold in the United States in 2004. This number is projected to more than double to amounts close to 220,000 by the end of 2005. However this is only a small fraction of the amount of new vehicles (more than 15 million) that are sold in the United States on an annual basis. Many people believe that these cars that run on half gas and half electric power are not front and center in the public eye, as they should be.

Who is the typical hybrid consumer and what makes them tick? Let’s take a closer look.

Many environmentalists are of the viewpoint that a car that requires less gasoline to run it is a good investment indeed. This idea is catching on with consumers as well. The combination of the two powers, electric and gasoline, give hybrid vehicles the same and/or a greater range of fuel efficiency than do traditionally run gas engines.

What do hybrid consumers demand of their fuel-efficient vehicles?

Not only do they have smaller and more fuel-efficient engines but also hybrids are equipped with other things that allow for the best mileage possible. Smart consumers look for the traits listed below in their hybrid vehicles.

Energy in a hybrid vehicle is allowed storage in the battery. This is how the process works- the faster speed your car is traveling at, the greater level of kinetic energy it contains. When you step on the brake, energy is displaced. Hybrid vehicles are equipped with the unique ability to store up energy in the battery to use at a later period of time. This is defined as "regenerative braking". In other words, the electric motor in the vehicle works in combination with the brakes to slow and eventually stop the car. The electric motor plays the role of a generator and aids in charging the car’s battery as it is in the act of slowing down.

Hybrid cars are constructed with an alternate power source, by way of batteries in the vehicle and the electric motor. When stopped at an intersection the hybrid vehicle has the option of turning off the gas engine to conserve energy.

Drag is reduced by the use of advanced aerodynamics with regard to hybrid cars. Aerodynamic drag is the force that is used to move your car through the air and /or down the highway. This drag force is not a good thing and can be reduced in a number of ways in hybrid cars. One way it is done is by constructing smaller front ends of vehicles. To give an example, SUV's have much larger front ends and need a much larger area to push through the surrounding air than do smaller, more compact sports cars. Drag can also be reduced by placing covers over wheel housings. This has a tremendous effect on airflow.

Consumers who purchase hybrids are concerned about the environment. Pollutants in the air are one of their primary pet peeves. Hybrid cars are helpful in reducing both air pollution and global-warming pollution. It has been proven that the excellent design of the hybrid makes it possible for smog pollution to be reduced by ninety percent or more, in comparison to the cleanest non-hybrid car on the market today.

To give an example of this, the Toyota Prius when compared to the national average, achieves a success rate of ninety percent in smog reduction. Not only helpful in reducing air pollution, but hybrid vehicles are beneficial in cutting down on global-warming pollutants in the air due to the reduced amount of fuel that is required to keep them on the roads. The first hybrid cars manufactured were successful in reducing harmful global-warming pollutants in the air by approximately a third to a half. The forecast for the future is that more advanced hybrid models will be able to cut emissions even more.

Demographics of the Typical Hybrid Consumer- What Makes Them Tick

More and more people in the market for a new car today are considering the advantages of purchasing a hybrid. The number one reason hybrids are gaining in popularity is due to their smaller, fuel-efficient engines. As prices at the gas pumps continue to soar, many people see the many benefits to driving an "alternative-fuel" vehicle (also known as alt-fuel).

According to a recent survey, approximately 88,000 hybrid vehicles were sold in the United States in 2004. This number is projected to more than double to amounts close to 220,000 by the end of 2005. However this is only a small fraction of the amount of new vehicles (more than 15 million) that are sold in the United States on an annual basis. Many people believe that these cars that run on half gas and half electric power are not front and center in the public eye, as they should be.

Who is the typical hybrid consumer and what makes them tick? Let’s take a closer look.

Many environmentalists are of the viewpoint that a car that requires less gasoline to run it is a good investment indeed. This idea is catching on with consumers as well. The combination of the two powers, electric and gasoline, give hybrid vehicles the same and/or a greater range of fuel efficiency than do traditionally run gas engines.

What do hybrid consumers demand of their fuel-efficient vehicles?

Not only do they have smaller and more fuel-efficient engines but also hybrids are equipped with other things that allow for the best mileage possible. Smart consumers look for the traits listed below in their hybrid vehicles.

Energy in a hybrid vehicle is allowed storage in the battery. This is how the process works- the faster speed your car is traveling at, the greater level of kinetic energy it contains. When you step on the brake, energy is displaced. Hybrid vehicles are equipped with the unique ability to store up energy in the battery to use at a later period of time. This is defined as "regenerative braking". In other words, the electric motor in the vehicle works in combination with the brakes to slow and eventually stop the car. The electric motor plays the role of a generator and aids in charging the car’s battery as it is in the act of slowing down.

Hybrid cars are constructed with an alternate power source, by way of batteries in the vehicle and the electric motor. When stopped at an intersection the hybrid vehicle has the option of turning off the gas engine to conserve energy.

Drag is reduced by the use of advanced aerodynamics with regard to hybrid cars. Aerodynamic drag is the force that is used to move your car through the air and /or down the highway. This drag force is not a good thing and can be reduced in a number of ways in hybrid cars. One way it is done is by constructing smaller front ends of vehicles. To give an example, SUV's have much larger front ends and need a much larger area to push through the surrounding air than do smaller, more compact sports cars. Drag can also be reduced by placing covers over wheel housings. This has a tremendous effect on airflow.

Consumers who purchase hybrids are concerned about the environment. Pollutants in the air are one of their primary pet peeves. Hybrid cars are helpful in reducing both air pollution and global-warming pollution. It has been proven that the excellent design of the hybrid makes it possible for smog pollution to be reduced by ninety percent or more, in comparison to the cleanest non-hybrid car on the market today.

To give an example of this, the Toyota Prius when compared to the national average, achieves a success rate of ninety percent in smog reduction. Not only helpful in reducing air pollution, but hybrid vehicles are beneficial in cutting down on global-warming pollutants in the air due to the reduced amount of fuel that is required to keep them on the roads. The first hybrid cars manufactured were successful in reducing harmful global-warming pollutants in the air by approximately a third to a half. The forecast for the future is that more advanced hybrid models will be able to cut emissions even more.

IRS Certifies 2006 Toyota Hybrid for Clean Fuel Deduction

by Richard A. Chapo

The Internal Revenue Service has certified the 2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid as being eligible for the clean-burning fuel deduction. This certification means that taxpayers who purchase one of these hybrid vehicles new during calendar year 2005 may claim a tax deduction of up to $2000 on Form 1040.

Under Working Families Relief Act of 2004, which was signed into law in October of 2004, the clean-burning fuel deduction is limited to up to $2,000 for certified vehicles first put into service in 2005 and $500 for vehicles placed in service in 2006. No deduction will be allowed after 2006.

Federal Law allows individuals to claim a deduction for the incremental cost of buying a motor vehicle that is propelled by a clean-burning fuel. By combining an electric motor with a gasoline-powered engine, these hybrid vehicles obtain greater fuel efficiency and produce fewer emissions than similar vehicles powered solely by conventional gasoline-powered engines.

This one-time deduction must be taken in the year the vehicle is originally used. The taxpayer must be the original owner. Individuals do not have to itemize deductions on their tax return to claim this deduction. This benefit can be taken as an adjustment to income on the Form 1040.

The amount of the deduction for the Toyota Highlander Hybrid was set after the manufacturer, Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. documented for the IRS the incremental cost related to the vehicle's electric motor and related equipment.

A $2,000 tax deduction? I'm off to my local Toyota dealer!


About the Author
Richard Chapo is CEO of Business Tax Recovery - Obtaining tax refunds for small businesses for overpaid taxes. Discovery tax strategies and deductions in our tax articles section.

7 Tips to Maximize Your Hybrid’s Fuel Efficiency

With a compact, yet highly efficient engine, the hybrid car is becoming increasingly popular for its numerous advantages. One such benefit is the car’s knack for fuel efficiency. As gas prices continue to fluctuate, car owners are searching for ways to maximize fuel reserves to the fullest. While every automobile is capable of achieving better gas mileage, there are certain tips and tricks for the hybrid that can assist in your conservation efforts.

1. Periodically turn off the engine: A hybrid car has an alternate power supply that consists of batteries and an electric motor. For this reason, the hybrid does not have to use the gasoline engine at all times, and can turn off this engine occasionally. An opportune occasion to switch off the gasoline engine is while stopped at a traffic light.

2. Minimize air-conditioning usage: Studies have revealed that use of air-conditioning systems in hot temperatures can raise fuel consumption by at least 20 percent. Fuel efficiency can be improved in the summer months by minimizing air-conditioning usage, and utilizing the hybrid car’s flow-through ventilation system. It is also wise to make use of air vents to circulate cool air as much as possible. This is especially helpful with highway driving. If air-conditioning usage is a necessity, set the controls to a moderate level, and then switch the system off after the automobile has cooled.

3. Low-rolling resistance tires are crucial: The standard automobile is equipped with tires that are designed to supply proper traction and a smooth, comfortable driving experience. However, because of a large amount of drag, most automobile tires do not provide the highest quality of fuel efficiency. The hybrid is designed with a unique variety of tire that is sturdier and inflated to a higher air pressure than the traditional automobile tire. This causes less drag, and better gas mileage.

4. Regularly check tire pressure: Research has shown that gas mileage can improve by approximately 3.5 percent if tires are correctly inflated. Some hybrid owners choose to go slightly beyond the recommended air pressure amount, while still staying below the maximum pressure range. Over inflation can cause rough tire wear and handling difficulties. Tire pressure should be gauged on a routine basis, checking for leaks or proof of embedded objects. Wintertime especially calls for regular inspections, as cold weather can cause a sharp decline in air pressure.

5. Properly maintain both car and engine: Keeping your hybrid in quality condition not only minimizes fuel and money costs, it reduces the threat of dangerous emissions. Dirty oil, clogged air filters, and overall neglect to other general hybrid maintenance can contribute to a decrease in fuel efficiency. Replacing clogged air filters can increase a hybrid’s fuel efficiency by almost 10 percent, while also shielding the engine from impurities. A routine tune-up when the car is not working properly or has not passed an emissions test has been known to greatly improve gas mileage. Spark plugs should also be correctly maintained; make sure they are firing properly, and replace them when necessary.

6. Combine errands and trips: Combining errands and short trips together is an easy way to maximize your hybrid’s fuel efficiency. Numerous short trips that begin from a cold engine generate two times as much fuel as a longer trip covering the same exact region when the engine is already warm. Linking errands together in a similar part of town saves both time and money. This method also cuts down on the wear of your hybrid. Try car pools when possible, or share driving responsibilities with others.

7. Drive slower: Most drivers tend to drive 5 to 10 miles over the posted speed limit. However, keeping within the limit can have a considerable impact on the fuel efficiency of a hybrid car. Why? The aerodynamic drag on some cars increases dramatically the faster it is driven. The higher the speed, the less fuel efficient the car will be.

Hybrid cars with 250 mpg fuel mileage

Is it possible to have 250-mpg mileage with hybrid cars? Yes, Bellevue auto visionaries’ thinks so. The people owning Toyota Prius and Honda hybrid cars are eyeing for an mpg of 40 to 50 then how a automaker claims to have technology that can give this high mileage. What technology they are using? Let us try to look at answers of these questions.

20 member team at AFS Trinity Power Corp claims to make this possible with their plug in hybrid car. On technology front, they are going to use flywheel to create and store power. Conventional cars use gasoline engine to power the vehicle whereas hybrid cars use gasoline engine with battery support. However, the claimed car will use gasoline engine, battery source with flywheel or a capacitor. The power load is shifted among these sources according to the requirement.

The flywheel will help the car in two ways i.e firstly it will help the car in the time of acceleration and secondly it will absorb the power which is being wasted while braking. It will also help the car to use lesser number and lighter batteries. This will collectively help to reduce the overall weight of the car. Flywheel or capacitor is said to absorb power efficiently and quickly.

In future, the gasoline engine could also be replaced with more fuel-efficient hydrogen fuel cells. It is estimated that these cars would cost $3 to $7 for gas and $4 for electricity per week, which is much lower, then $14 for hybrid cars and $36 for conventional cars.

As the environment is degrading each day and fuel is depleting even faster, these types of technology could help stabilize the situation largely. Let us see if dreams of Bellevue auto visionaries come live. Think of a situation if oil imports from Middle East stops due to some reason.

Give Yourself Some Credit – Tax incentives for Hybrid Owners

Buying a hybrid car is becoming quite an investment. The hybrid, which operates on both a gasoline engine and an electric engine, is offering much more than a decrease in gasoline cost. It also offers consumers the ability to directly help the environment. Hybrids are known to emit very few pollutants, especially when compared to conventional vehicles. It is stated that hybrids are up to 90% cleaner to the air than normal cars. This something the government is willing to reward hybrid drivers for.

Tax incentives for hybrid owners are one of the newest things offered. Hybrid owners are ecstatic about the new bill passed that gives them as much as $3,400 back. President George W. Bush passed the bill as a new Energy Bill. The bill focuses on the environment but also on the fact that hybrids save on oil use. This directly affects the country's dependency on foreign oil. When a consumer purchases a hybrid, they are directly helping break the control many radical Islamists have over the United States through oil. These are the same individuals who hate the United States. Therefore, it is only logical the United States would want to reward hybrid owners for their smart purchases.

Many consumers find this new bill difficult to understand. The average consumer may joke that it takes an accounting degree to figure it all out. The formula used for the tax incentive involves the fuel efficiency numbers for 2002 vehicles. It works a little like this: If your car is between 25 and 50 percent more efficient than the average 2002 vehicle model, then the buyer will receive a $400 credit. The credit can grow as high as $2,400 if the new car is even more efficient.

The trick of the bill is that is also offers a combination of a conservation credit. This involves knowing a formula that tries to project how much fuel the car will save over its lifetime. The combination of the first half of the calculation and the second half of the calculation gives the tax benefit total. There are a few restrictions however that some consumers may not be aware of. One of the restrictions includes a credit cap for each automaker until 2010, which is set at 60,000 at this time. Other restrictions as described also restrict inclusion of certain hybrid models, especially those that are SUV hybrids or those purchased after 2005. All in all however, hybrid owners in general will profit from this tax benefit.

The bill may seem a bit confusing and limited at this time, but hybrid owners will likely benefit greatly from this tax incentive. Just leave it to your accountant to figure out the details and sit back to claim the reward. After all, not everyone understands every aspect of their personal taxes each year, but they still pay and collect on them. By giving hybrid owners this great incentive, the United States is not only rewarding current hybrid owners, but they are encouraging consumers that do not own hybrids to go out and purchase one.

The government is showing that hybrids not only help the consumer individually but they also help the country as a whole. If every car driven on the roads of the United States was a hybrid car, then the United States could potentially cut their oil needs down by 15%. This is an enormous number considering that the United States currently imports more than 11 million barrels of oil a day. Overall, the United States would be less dependent on oil for normal day-to-day activities and the cost of oil would be affected.

If you want to lower your personal gasoline costs then you should consider a hybrid. If you are interested in ways to help preserve the clean air of the environment, then you should consider a hybrid. If you are interested in the disadvantages of the dependency the United States has on foreign oil, then you should consider a hybrid. And most of all, if you are one that loves great government incentives, like the new Energy Bill that gives hybrid owners tax incentives, then you should certainly consider buying a hybrid.

You Can’t Cultivate this in your Garden! The Latest in Hybrid Happenings

Hybrids are one of the most popular options in transportation today. Consumers are flocking to these vehicles for many reasons. One of the most popular reasons consumers love hybrids is because they save them hundreds of dollars a year in gasoline purchases. Hybrids are not only easy on the pocketbook, but also extremely easy on the environment. These environmental advantages are getting the attention of government and corporations as well. With more hybrid models coming out each year, it is no shock that this innovative vehicle design is moving to the top of the sales chain.

Some of the freshest news in hybrid happens involves legislation. Many states and cities are becoming more aware of the environmental advantages hybrids offer for their communities. Just by driving a hybrid, the average citizen is cutting their transportation pollution output by up to 90%. If every citizen made the transition to the hybrid, there would be much less air pollution in an area. Therefore, the government is beginning to offer incentives for hybrid owners.

In some areas, hybrid car owners are enjoying perks for their local government already. In large cities like Los Angeles, hybrid owners can park at any city parking meter for free. Various cities in New Mexico and Connecticut are also offering free city parking for hybrid owners. Even cities that have not offered free parking are offering parking discounts. Students, professors, and staff at the University of Miami enjoy a 50% reduction in their parking fees for driving a hybrid vehicle. Many of these locations only authorize certain hybrids however, based on their total emissions. If you drive a hybrid, you may want to investigate your community’s incentives.

By offering incentives, community governments can encourage consumers to make wise environmental decisions. Although it is unlikely these incentives will completely influence a car buyer to get a hybrid, they will often help a car buyer who is “on the fence” choose a hybrid for their purchase. Showing the citizens of the community that the government is committed to rewarding those who contribute is a great way to help the hybrid trend.

Corporations that care about their communities are also getting in on the incentive deals. Many, especially in the state of California, are offering cash toward the purchase of a hybrid for all full time employees. Some corporations will only approve specific hybrid models and others have a limit on how many employees can take advantage of the cash each year. However, as a whole, this incentive is working great. There are many reasons a corporation can benefit from offering this type of incentive, however at the end of the day, the only thing that matters is that the incentive is helping the environment.

Since sales of hybrids are soaring, there will be many new hybrid models coming to consumers in the next few years. Most of the hybrids on the market thus far have been cars. For the 2006 model year however, there will be four new sport utility vehicles offered. The Lexus RX 400h, the Mazda Tribute, the Mercury Mariner, and the Toyota Highlander are all going to be available. All of the models are only available with automatic transmissions. The Ford Escape that was introduced for the 2005 model year is doing so well that manufacturers are optimistic about these new designs. Obviously, these designs won’t get as many mpg as a hybrid car will, but they are still very eco-friendly.

At least twelve more hybrid models are expected by the end of 2008. These models will include a Toyota Camry Hybrid, a Nissan Altima Hybrid, a Chevrolet Malibu, Chevrolet Tahoe, and a GMC Yukon Hybrid. With something that appeals to everyone coming out, there is an expected increase in the sales of hybrids. Consumers are going to be choosing models that they already love and getting the perks of driving a hybrid.

With the government, businesses, and manufacturers focusing on hybrid models and incentives for hybrids, there should be a continued trend involving hybrids. Consumers will take advantage of these incentives and feel great about doing their part to help the environment. With lifestyles that make driving cars almost necessary, these hybrids are offering a peaceful alternative for vehicle drivers everywhere.

Toyota Prius Making Waves for Hybrid Vehicles

The concept vehicle a few years back is now making big news around the world. The Toyota Prius is currentle the cleanest family car on the planet today. Voted as the 2005 European Car of the Year, the Prius sets a new standard on hybrid cars.

The car was chosen as the winner from a list of seven finalists and beat the competition comprehensively. It gathered 406 points as compared to Citroën C4 (267), Ford Focus (228), and Vauxhall Astra (180). Other cars in the consideration were Renault Modus, Peugeot 407 and BMW 1-series.

Toyota Prius Hybrid featured prominently at this year's "Red Carpet Green Cars" event as twenty of Hollywood's A-listers are set to arrive at the Oscars in chauffeur-driven Toyota Prius hybrid vehicles instead of the customary gas-guzzling limos. Participants in the "drive" for global sustainability at the "Red Carpet -- Green Cars" event include veterans Susan Sarandon, Tim Robbins, and Robin Williams, as well as some new faces consisting of: Selma Hayek, Penelope Cruz, Layra Linney, and best actor nominee Leonardo DiCaprio among many others.

The latest Consumer Reports owner satisfaction survey reported the Toyota Prius won near-unanimous praise with 94 per cent of respondents saying that they would definitely get one again. The second-generation Toyota Prius becomes the first hybrid to top the list, sending the Lexus LS430 luxury sedan down to second place. The sporty Honda S2000 was in third place.

The owner satisfaction survey is part of the Consumer Reports annual survey, which asked its subscribers if they would buy the car or truck they own again, considering its price, performance, comfort, and reliability. This year CR received more than 250,000 responses to this question for 2002 to 2004 models, which were used to determine owner-satisfaction ratings and lists of Most and Least Satisfying vehicles.

Awareness of the benefits of hybrids has dramatically increased and fuel economy is the No. 1 purchase reason for the Prius, so it's safe to say that rising fuel prices are putting a spotlight on hybrid vehicles.

Toyota Prius’ use of technology is amazing. Turning a key in a traditional ignition does not do starting the Prius; instead it is initiated by pressing the round “Power” button on the dash. There is an interactive, touch sensitive, Multi-Information display screen mounted in the center console. The display has many modes and can show things like the energy flow between the power train components, fuel consumption, radio settings, climate control, or many of the Prius’ other functions.

Toyota Prius is certainly a hybrid car that is environment friendly. It carries an AT-PZEV rating, which makes the Prius one the cleanest production cars on the road today when it comes to emissions. It is 90% cleaner than that of the average car. Combined with the Prius’ excellent gas mileage, it is a great choice for the environment.

To share the spotlight with the Toyota Prius Hybrid car are the superbly engineered parts one can find at online stores like Partstrain. Click on http://www.partstrain.com/ShopByVehicle/Toyota when looking for durable and excellent Toyota Prius Hybrid parts to ensure you get the same satisfaction when riding the Prius.

About The Author...
Jenny McLane is a 36 year old native of Iowa and has a knack for research on cars and anything and everything about it. She works full time as a Market Analyst for one of the leading car parts suppliers in the country today. jenny@partstrain.com

Emission Standards – How do hybrids perform?

A close look at the EPA’s (Environmental Protection Agency) will make most people wonder why we have all not been forced to purchase hybrid cars. The mileage performance of the Honda Insight, which gets into the high sixties at times, should be enough incentive to get one to purchase it, without even looking at the EPA ratings. The truth is that the more gas one uses, the more emissions and air pollution you put into the air.

The way to counteract the hazardous effects of gas guzzling vehicles is of course, the combination of electric and gas power. The performance of hybrids in the environmental department is not just cutting pollution by a few percentages. Some hybrids, like the Toyota Prius, are cutting numbers by a staggering 90%. It seems that the combination of electric with gas power, has not been totally perfected, but it is taking emissions standards to an unthought-of level.

Hybrids are showing what regular gas cars really are because they so vastly bypass them in emissions ratings. One-third of the world’s pollution is directly caused by cars. The burning of fuel in regular cars actually puts tons of toxic chemicals into the air. The worst of these chemicals is carbon dioxide. This is the gas which is being linked to possible global warming.

Driving a Toyota Prius cuts the tons of carbon dioxide being released into the air by half. Another chemical which some studies show contributes to global warming is nitrogen oxide. This has also been known to cause lung irritation and acid rain. Driving a hybrid has been known to cut emissions of nitrogen oxide by more than half. Hydrocarbons affect the human body to catastrophic results. Birth defects and cancer have been linked to the release of hydrocarbons into the air. Honda’s hybrids have cut emissions of hydrocarbons by more than two-thirds.

There is also lead, particulate matter and carbon monoxide being released into the air every time we drive in our car. Sitting in traffic during rush-hour or at the drive-through lets one sit in a stew of toxic chemicals. All of these chemicals, gases and particles are being cut in half, or by triple, with the purchase of a hybrid car. Because more and more people are becoming interested in what the EPA has to say about global warming, harmful effects on the human body, and general pollution by regular cars, makers are coming out with better and better hybrid cars. Each year, makers like Toyota, Honda, Ford and soon GM, Saturn and Mazda, are improving the gas mileage performance of the hybrid models which directly affect how much emissions will get into the air and produce fatal results.

The EPA and other environmentally minded groups are supporting the production of hybrids simply by getting the results of their studies to consumers. Special ratings are being given to hybrid vehicles. For example, a ULEV rating indicates ultra-low-emissions-vehicle and SLEV is a super-low-emissions-vehicle. All of the hybrids are receiving these ultra or super-low emissions ratings from the EPA, while their non-hybrid counterparts are still receiving below average ratings for air pollution emissions.

The EPA breaks down the scoring for vehicles and gives them a separate rating for air pollution, and one for greenhouse gases. Even though emissions standards released in the 1970s made it mandatory for vehicles to maintain certain standards, which helped reduce some of the pollution and greenhouse gases, makers are usually not able to even get above average ratings in both categories for most models. Hybrids hold the key to excellent ratings.

Terrain, weather and speed all affect the data which goes into calculating the ratings for hybrids, and all other cars, but all considered; hybrids are still surpassing the EPA’s expectations. They are all scoring above average, even perfect scores in some cases, because they are able to use electric power. The hybrid is still using plenty of gas. It just combines this with electric power when it can. This keeps the hybrid from having to use as much gas. This reduced use of gas is what is making the hybrid the bright star of the EPA standards and is pleasing fuel conscience people around the world.

Total US Hybrid Sales Drop in October; Prius Sales Climb 21%

In a month of overall declines, Prius sales still increased. US hybrids turned in their worst aggregate sales month since June, when all the models now on sale were first concurrently on the market, and the third-lowest of the year. October saw 16,934 units sold, 27% down from August’s peak of 23,307, and 12% down from September’s 19,180 units.

With the overall decline in combined light duty vehicle sales of 14% from September to October, however, hybrids managed to nudge up their total market share very slightly from 1.45% in September to 1.48% in October.

Toyota not only was once again the leader in hybrid sales in October, it increased its combined unit sales to 14,173 from 13,021 the month before, a jump of 8.8%. The Prius did the heavy lifting, with 9,939 units sold (a 21% increase from the prior month), while the Highlander and Rx400h hybrids saw slight declines to 2,330 and 1,904 respectively.

Hybrids represented 8.2% of all Toyota vehicles sold in September, up from 7.3% in September.

Honda saw the most severe drop in hybrid sales, with the Civic hybrid plummeting to only 231 units in advance of the roll-out of the new 2006 Civic hybrid. In August, sales of the Civic hybrid reached 4,146 units.

The Honda Accord hybrid dropped down to 1,266 units, and the Insight to 37. Despite those drops, however, Honda hybrids increased their share of all Honda light duty vehicles sold in September to 4.0%, up from 3.6% the month before.

Ford also saw a drop in sales of its Escape hybrid, down to 1,227 units in September. That pushed hybrids as a percentage of Ford total sales down to 0.6%, from 0.8% the month before.

Diesel versus Hybrids – The “Who’s Better” Debate Lingers On

With gasoline prices continuing to skyrocket at gas pumps across the United States, motorists and car manufacturers alike have been searching for a new alternative to gasoline powered cars. However, just what the best alternative really is seems to be a debate that has been brewing amongst those who are most knowledgeable on the topic. With hybrid cars seeming to gain more and more popularity over the past year, some car manufacturers are wondering if electric cars are really the way to go.

An alternative to both hybrid cars and typical gasoline powered cars comes in the form of diesel powered cars. Much cheaper than gasoline, diesel has long provided an alternative fuel for motorists around the world. However, diesel powered cars have not been as successful within the United States. This has baffled many car manufacturers for a long time, given that diesel cars have been prevalent in other parts of the world including Europe for the last seven decades.

Many consumers assume that diesel is comparable to gasoline, given that on the surface it seems the same – after all, you can pump both diesel and gasoline at your local gas station. However, diesel powers cars in a somewhat different way than gasoline.

While gasoline uses spark plugs to ignite the gasoline and produce fuel for the vehicle, diesel powered cars use compressed air. Diesel powered driving has long been associated with the big rigs. Eighteen wheelers and other large trucks are fueled by diesel for one main reason – the excellent gas mileage. Diesel cars are also excellent on gas mileage, something that is seemingly lacking from standard gasoline powered cars in the United States. Diesel cars typically get between forty and fifty miles per gallon, anywhere from twenty to forty percent better than the average gasoline powered car.

With regular gasoline prices rising, you have probably noticed that lower diesel price at the gas station while you are filling up your tank. Diesel prices do rise when regular gasoline prices rise, but diesel prices are always lower than gasoline prices. This is perhaps one of the most appealing characteristics of diesel for consumers that are tired of paying upwards of three dollars per gallon of gasoline to fill up their car’s gas tank.

However, diesel also has its downfalls. Environmental studies have shown that diesel fuels omit considerably harmful fumes into the atmosphere. Given recent environmental concerns, this gives gasoline one up on diesel fueled engines. However, car consumers will find that these are not the only options.

Many car manufacturers are now marketing hybrid vehicles. Hybrid vehicles are powered by a combination of gasoline and electric power. By combining gasoline with electric power, hybrid cars omit considerably less harmful fumes into the atmosphere. In fact, while running on their electric battery power, hybrid cars omit no fumes into the environment at all.

The hybrid presents an alternative that is not only cheaper at the gas pump, but also more environmentally friendly than gasoline fueled cars. Certain places in the United States that have been plagued by heavy pollution, like the state of California; have seen a growing trend in the purchase of hybrid vehicles over regular vehicles.

In fact, millions of Americans are currently living in areas that have poor air quality. Hybrids could provide the beginning of a solution to this problem. Without a doubt hybrid vehicles will provide somewhat of a reprieve from dire air quality. However, the environmental pluses of hybrid vehicles do not stop there.

After the devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina at the end of the summer of 2005, many people were left wondering what caused such a horrible hurricane season. Many scientists and environmentalists have blamed the increase in major hurricanes in the negative affects global warming has had on the environment. The excessive use of fossil fuels, including gasoline, in our society has caused an extremely detrimental affect on our atmosphere.

Hybrid vehicles that use less gasoline and therefore omit less detrimental fumes into the atmosphere are perhaps the first step to a cleaner, healthier society and more breathable air. By providing low gas cost and little harm to the environment hybrid cars seem to be the newest trend in smart driving.

2-to-1 Opposition to Hybrid Car Access to HOV Lanes

Results of month-long poll of on-line readers shows little support for hybrid car incentive.

Congress may soon be debating whether or not drivers of hybrid electric cars will be permitted to drive alone in High Occupancy Vehicle "Diamond" lanes during rush hour traffic. While California, Arizona and Virginia have all passed legislation allowing such access, Congress must revise current law which bans such access on any highways built with federal funds. HOV access is seen as an incentive for consumers to buy more fuel efficient, low-pollution vehicles.

Congressmen Darrell Issa (R.CA) and State Representative Brad Sherman (D-Sherman Oaks) are slated to introduce the "Hybrid Vehicle Access Act" in Washington, D.C. this week, which would allow hybrid cars that get better than 45 mpg to drive in the HOV lanes.

Currently, hybrid car drivers are entitled to a $2000 federal income tax deduction when they purchase approved models that include the Toyota Prius, Honda Insight, Civic and Accord and the Ford Escape Hybrid. Some 88,000 gasoline-electric hybrids were sold in the United States in 2004. Projections in 2004 by California's Air Resources Board estimated that the number of hybrids in the state by 2007 at 110,000. California's HOV law would limit the number vehicles granted access to 75,000.

In Virginia, where hybrid drivers commuting into Washington, D.C. every day can already take advantage of that state's law, complaints are being raised that its HOV lanes are already congested by many of the nearly 7,000 gasoline-electric cars registered in the state last year.

A recent San Jose Mercury News poll of its readers indicated that they disapproved of hybrid car access in HOV lanes by 6-to-1, results that are confirmed by a month-long poll conducted by EVWorld.Com (http://www.evworld) of its readers, who were asked specifically, "Should hybrid-electric vehicles be given unrestricted access to HOV Diamond lanes regardless of their fuel efficiency rating?"

It is this aspect of California's law that has rankled American automakers, Ford Motor Company, in particular, because its Escape Hybrid's EPA fuel economy average is 33.5 mpg, double the efficiency of its non-Hybrid counterpart.

A total of 697 EV World readers responded to the survey and 65% answered "No", while 30% checked "Yes". Just over 4 percent replied they were "Unsure". This response strongly suggests that among EV World readers, an estimated 15% of whom own hybrid vehicles, that any legislation that permits HOV access should have a minimum fuel efficiency requirement associated with it. It may also indicate, like the Mercury News poll, general opposition to the HOV incentive for any and all hybrid vehicles.

About EV World
Published weekly online since 1998, EV World features original content on a wide range of topics related to advanced, alternative fuel technologies from the latest in battery, hybrid-electric and fuel cell vehicles to renewable energy progress and policy. The publication has interviewed such notables as General Wesley Clark, former CIA director James Woolsey and "The Hype About Hydrogen" author Joseph Romm. Interviews are available in text and MP3 audio format. EV refers to "electric vehicle."

While premium content is available to subscribers only, much of the site, including daily news updates and archived interviews and feature stories, are available free to all readers. EV World conducts reader polls each month, with this month's question being, "Do you believe that China's growing appetite for oil will eventually bring it into conflict with the United States"?

2006 Ford Escape Hybrid Review

Editor of CARazed.com publishes his review of the new 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid SUV, one of the first true hybrid SUVs. Harrold Ford, a local Sacramento, California Ford dealership gave CARazed.com the time to explore this hybrid SUV.

"I was impressed. I expected a wimpy little run-about with an odd transmission and I found a fully loaded affordable small SUV with tons of cool new technology."

"I did notice the unique qualities of the electronically controlled constant velocity transmission (eCVT) though. The first thing I noticed was the absence of shifting gears. … It was definitely a different experience than a traditional automatic transmission but one anyone would get accustomed to it quickly."

Included in the review is a comparison chart that graphically illustrates the lead the Ford Escape Hybrid has in price and fuel economy. Links to owner reviews strengthen the case for this new hybrid SUV.

Mike concludes by saying, "In a nutshell, there are a lot of happy owners and on average they rate the Escape Hybrid a 9 out of 10. For a brand new model, with a ton of new technology, this is a good indication that the Escape Hybrid is a good deal."

CARazed.com also invites other publications and websites to republish the article, photos, or both and long as credits to CARazed.com are given. A complete set of files for journalists is available including graphic assets. Contact CARazed.com at e-mail protected from spam bots, for a link to download the media file.

About CARazed.com:
CARazed.com is a car news, reviews and free car classifieds website. Dealers and Private sellers are welcome to post an unlimited number of cars for sale. CARazed.com was launched on April 1, 2005. On May 1, 2005 Sellers began posting cars for sale. There are currently over 200 cars for sale on CARazed.com.

Contact:
Mike Janzen
www.carazed.com

Top Three Reasons to Buy Hybrid Cars

There is a tax advantage for purchasing a hybrid car.

The Federal government currently offers tax breaks to people who buy hybrids through 2006. The amount of your tax break depends on when you file and what tax bracket you are in. Some states are also starting to offer tax breaks to those who purchase hybrid vehicles.

Hybrid cars utilize the newest technology and offers sleek, aerodynamic designs.

The aerodynamically designed hybrid cars are great for reducing drag. Also, the uses of low-rolling resistant tires made of special rubber reduce friction on the road. The high capacity nickel-metal-hydride battery pack is reliable and helps power the car when needed. This helps reduce the drag of the car when driving.

The sleek profiles and designs of the hybrid allow the car to drive well through all conditions. Hybrids use the latest in power-train technology, too. The computer used in the hybrid car uses the latest technology and enhances the driving performance.

Hybrid cars are typically smaller and have more efficient engines.

The efficiency of the hybrid is boosted by the small size and lightweight materials used to make the car. Hybrid vehicles also have regenerative braking. This means that the electric motor that drives the hybrid acts as a generator and charges the battery while the car is slowing. Hybrids also have a periodic engine shut off; meaning when a hybrid is stopped in traffic, the engine is temporarily shut off. Then when the car is put back in gear, the car starts automatically. The efficiency of a hybrid car outperforms that of a conventional car.

Hybrid Technology; UK Co. Builds Next Generation Hybrid Sports Coupe

Connaught Motor Co. Ltd. announced yesterday that it has achieved significant new investment for the production of its breakthrough Type D V-10 Hybrid Sports Coupe. Connaught also plans to license their hybrid technology for use in other mass-market vehicle models beginning in 2006.

Connaught Motor Co President and CEO Tony Martindale also re-affirmed Connaught's plan to launch the first series of its Type D, in a Non-Hybrid version GT car, by the end of 2005.

"Through innovation, we are challenging ourselves to make the cars of today and tomorrow cleaner and more efficient, without compromising range or performance. "This will give real meaning to the words 'Powered by Connaught'“, said Martindale.

Connaught became the first British automaker to offer a petrol-electric hybrid vehicle for production, and is on track to begin delivery of its first production vehicles in early 2007.

Martindale also announced that in several months Connaught will apply its hybrid technology to the company's new "Next Generation Series" of lightweight, compact, taxis and light-utility vehicles.

Connaught is committed to advancing its Hybrid/Internal Combustion Engine technology even as the company works on alternative fuel technologies, such as compressed gas/hybrid vehicles. "In this way, we will continue to provide our customers with the economy, safety and performance they have enjoyed in the past, while creating a better future for the environment and society," he said.

Connaught are specialists in the design and development of innovative, stylish and desirable vehicles.

The Connaught Type-D embodies excellent performance, superb handling, combined with unique styling and hand-finished to meet your individual requirements, thus redefining the automotive experience.

As Europe's leader in hybrid system technology, verified by leading independent institutions, Connaught are providing unparalleled efficiency with no compromise in vehicle performance.

Hybrid Price Wars – Five Manufacturers with the Best Listed Hybrid Prices

When hybrid cars first became a household name, they were also identified as too expensive and outlandish to even be plausible to purchase. Even for the most futuristic minded and environmentally friendly types, most agreed that they would wait until they hybrid cars were mainstreamed.

Some people were worried about the kinks that engineers were still trying to work out. No one wanted to be the guinea pig. Others felt that the money they would save in gas would not help them with the up-front costs, warranty questions, and possible battery issues, which were much more risky than in the average car. Luckily, some brave, financially secure people were willing to start the market rolling. Several years later, the demand is high enough to even produce some healthy price wars among makers.

Despite the stereotype that hybrids are a luxury vehicle, prices have gone down considerably. The 2005 Toyota Prius, for example has a base price of $21,275, which includes the eerie halogen headlights, High Solar Energy-Absorbing glass, and integrated fog lamps. These standard options are not the norm for most typical, non-hybrid, 4-door vehicles, so it already sounds like Toyota is creating an irresistible package for their hybrid.

Honda’s Civic hybrid car is also competitively starting at $21,850 for this energy efficient version of their famous sedan. Their standard package includes MP3 capabilities built-in, cruise control, and speed-sensitive volume control, not to mention their patented iVTEC engine technology. Honda has also created the insight, which also starts in the $21,000 range. Ford has also begun its hybrid campaign, which will hopefully combat the general idea that they are the king of American gas-guzzling vehicles.

In fact, only Lexus bypasses Toyota and Honda in price range. The Lexus hybrid is going to start you in the $49,500 department, but even that sounds good if you consider that their GS starts for just a couple thousand less than that. This is nothing shocking, though.

Lexus has always been the luxury maker, and everyone knows that you are going to spend at least double for a sedan or SUV when you buy from them. Since other makers in their range have not started pushing their own hybrids yet, Lexus can only compete with itself.

Some people are saying that all these car makers should start focusing on the latest project of making SUV hybrids. The logic is that it is already easy enough to make a fuel efficient car that is not a hybrid.

People really want to have the room and versatility of an SUV, but they do not want to contribute to the rising gas concerns. Already, GM, Mercury, Lexus, Toyota, Ford, Mazda, Saturn, Chevrolet and Honda have started hybrid campaigns, under the realization that SUVs are the real gas guzzlers, and more environmentally unsound, compared to sedans and mid-size vehicles.

Toyota, who has already boasted the best numbers for sales of hybrids in general, is starting their mid-size SUV, the Highlander at $33,000. The Ford Escape and Mercury Mariners, which are both compact SUVs, start at around $29,000. Of course, the mid-size Lexus RX400 is going to run you at least $48,000, but again, they usually do. Generally, a hybrid mid-size or compact SUV will cost at least $9,000 more than its non-hybrid counterpart.

The real wars are starting deep within the advances being made daily in hybrid technology. Honda and Toyota are constantly coming up with improved batteries which are smaller. The computer technology which helps the vehicles switch from electric to gas is being made smarter and more reliable.

Honda’s revamped Civic has speculators saying that it will give Toyota a challenge, while Toyota is cutting down the prices for their Prius as much as possible to inspire consumers to purchase one. The new price wars are being fueled by foreign fuel and environmental concerns, which are making consumers more and more ready to trade in their car for a hybrid.

Makers see this as an opportunity to inspire buyers to make the switch sooner, by lowering the prices for their hybrid models representing people’s favorite regular models. With all these factors, hybrids are becoming more accessible to the average person who wants to get the fuel-conscience movement racing.

Looking to buy a Hybrid?

Looking to buy a Hybrid Car? Probably the one reason for your search would be better gas mileage. The all-new 2006 Honda Civic Hybrid delivers an EPA estimated mileage of 49/51 mpg, plus you get a lot more.

To begin with, the 2006 Honda Civic Hybrid is built from ground up for optimized fuel economy, and the new 20 hp flat-wire motor can run the car in battery-only mode. Regenerative braking, which is a major power-saving feature in the new Honda Civic Hybrid, is 170 percent better the older version.

The new 1.3L dual cam V4 is also optimized for better mileage, and the Integrated Motor Assist System gets more power-efficient batteries.

The 2006 Honda Civic Hybrid now comes with an Advanced Technology Partial Zero-Emission Vehicle (AT-PZEV) rating, so you not only save on gas, but save the environment as well. Add to it a new multi-tiered instrument panel, a sophisticated audio system and an available navigation system, and you are talking about one of the most user-friendly Hybrids available.

An Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) Body Structure that absorbs crash energy and front, side and side curtain airbags help make your 2006 Civic Hybrid a safe vehicle on any road. The new Civic Hybrid also offers active Head Restraints, ABS with EBD and brake assist.

In California, Vacaville Honda offers a convenient Internet Buying Process with easy, anytime access to the entire Honda Line-up, including the 2006 Honda Civic Hybrid. Buyers can log on to www.vacavillehonda.com to research Honda Vehicles, access virtual test-drives and request an instant Internet quote or free test-drives. An online vehicle appraisal process is available for those who plan to trade in their existing vehicle.

Hybrid Technology Develops as the 2005 Honda Accord Hybrid

Hybrid cars use the combination of technologies such as internal combustion engines (ICEs), electric motors, batteries, hydrogen, and fuel cells. This saves a lot of gas fuel that becomes the preference of car buyers. The hybrid technology improves year after year as Honda’s hybrid vehicles become popular. Then, the 2005 Honda Accord Hybrid is by far the best Honda hybrid, or hybrid vehicle in the market.


The company that popularizes the hybrid technology is producing the better hybrid vehicles year after year. Although Toyota starts the technology to their Prius in 1997, Honda produces, develops, and uses the technology continuously to their cars. Honda’s first hybrid car, the Honda Insight was released in the United States in 1999. This was soon followed by the Honda Civic which marked the radical change in the hybrid technology and changed the way people's to a car.

Hybrid cars use the combination of technologies such as internal combustion engines (ICEs), electric motors, batteries, hydrogen, and fuel cells. This saves a lot of gas fuel that becomes the preference of car buyers.

The hybrid technology improves year after year as Honda’s hybrid vehicles become popular. Then, the 2005 Honda Accord Hybrid is by far the best Honda hybrid, or hybrid vehicle in the market.

A 3.0l V-6 engine of the Accord is the biggest among its class. It is the first hybrid that can match or even surpass other gas-engine vehicles. With 255 horses pushing it, the Accord is the most economical V-6 vehicle.

The 2005 Honda Accord Hybrid drives like the conventional gas-engine powered vehicle. And without the “hybrid” badges on the vehicle, you wouldn’t know the difference.

This Accord uses the same automatic transmission like that of the gas-engine instead of the continuously variable transmission (CVT), Toyota and Ford uses to their hybrid. Its so the IMA or the integrated motor assist which always at the gas mode and kick to electric for additional power when needed, unlike Ford and Toyota which uses the electric as long as possible then switch to gas when needed.

Fuel economy is not a question for the Honda Accord Hybrid. With 37 mpg fuel consumption on highway and 29 mpg in city, the Accord allows driver to save more money. Accord doesn't need to be plugged in. It automatically recharge itself during braking and, if necessary, via the gas engine. To save more fuel, both systems automatically shuts off at stoplight and long stops.

The only backslash of the 2005 Honda Accord Hybrid is its price tag of about $30,000 which is $3,400 more that its gas model. But for a vehicle that saves more fuel the regular vehicle, it is a better buy in the long run.

The 2005 Honda Accord Hybrid can be seen on www.partstrain.com along with other Honda vehicles. For more information about the vehicle, and to purchase Honda part, visit http://www.partstrain.com/ShopByVehicle/HONDA.

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