IRS incentives for Hybrid Cars Owners

The hybrid car has not come into the world without a shroud of rumors following carefully behind. From rumors of exploding batteries, electrical and digital nightmares, and poorly met expectations letting down consumers, the hybrid has had to struggle to overcome many misconceptions.

Makers have not let myth and rumor keep them from creating better hybrids in new and old models. Toyota, Ford, Lexus, Honda, Nissan, Mazda, Dodge, Chevy, GM and Saturn are either in the process of creating, or have already, released several high performing hybrids. A total of 20 hybrid models are available, or are soon to be so. With just about every maker producing hybrids, incentives to keep the industry rolling are filling up the market with a fresh batch of rumors.

The IRS is stepping up to explain as clearly as they can, what some of these options for the buyers of the most fuel efficient vehicles, really are shaping up to be. The "Clean Vehicle" adjustment being used for personal and business owners is helping to encourage the purchase of hybrid vehicles.

Some may still be skeptical since gas markets are so closely linked with politics for most of the world. The truth is that the government is actually interested in getting away from foreign fuel dependency. Getting more people to spend the extra money on a hybrid is being encouraged to help the market.

The IRS is playing a major role in these incentives by offering tax credits. The catch is that some of these credits have limits based upon how many hybrids are sold of each model. After a point, the credits will be phased out. On the Federal level, these credits run from a few hundred dollars to more than $2,500 for purchasing the 2006 Ford Escape.

Apparently, like most IRS laws, the calculations for the credits are a complicated jumble of formulas based on how many of a model is sold, over a particular period of time. Luckily, most buyers of hybrids are successfully receiving the credits. Buying a Toyota or Honda hybrid requires that you are one of the first 60,000 people to purchase one starting in January 2006. The amount of the credit also depends on which percentage of the tax bracket one falls into. Buyers of hybrids in 2004 or 2005 were able to claim as high as a $2,000 deduction on their taxes. For those in the 15% tax bracket, the deduction fell to about $300.

The tax credits are based on the Working Families Tax Relief Act of 2004. According to the IRS, the credits will be phased out after 2006 and must be claimed for the year that the hybrid was purchased. Luckily, one can claim the back credit for up to three years from the purchase of the hybrid by using the 1040X form, or the Amended U.S. Individual Tax Return form. Another form related to hybrid owners is the IRS Publication 535. Mostly used for business expenses, this form can be used for almost anyone who owns a hybrid, whether or not they use it for business purposes.

While hybrid owners are also getting incentives on the state level with their state income tax returns and also with special car pool or HOV lane privileges, some believe that the incentives on the Federal level should be even better.

For example, the fact that the incentive will be as little as $500 for 2006, and thereafter, nonexistent, does not give many people time to catch up with the extra money they will need to purchase a hybrid vehicle in the first place. Many see the mainstream entry of hybrids into the automobile market as the sign that fuel efficiency and environmental concerns are becoming part of the American culture.

One offset to the phase out of tax incentives for the purchase of hybrids is that the prices themselves are more attainable with each year. Right now, most people have to pay $5,000 to $9,000 more for a hybrid version of the car or SUV they want. That number is a little more than most people are ready to pay yet, but with almost every major maker of vehicles producing hybrids, it is foreseeable that hybrid prices will get lower with each passing year, whether or not incentives are offered by the government.

Hybrids Bode Well for Insurance Incentives

Those driving hybrids usually have very few complaints when it comes to their vehicle. Most hybrid owners will proudly inform anyone of the massive amounts they save in gasoline each year as well as the great impact their hybrid has on the environment.

They love that their car feels like a regular car, but is less expensive at the pump and less harmful to the air. One complaint however that you may hear from time to time is that hybrid owners are experiencing insurance prices that are either the same as they are for a regular car, or prices that are slightly higher than for a regular car of the same model.

Just recently a few insurance companies have decided to give hybrid owners a discount on their premiums. This is likely a marketing plan to get more drivers to switch to these companies, but nevertheless they are saving consumer's money in the long run. The first company to offer a discount for hybrid owners is Farmer's Insurance. As usual the media made a huge issue out of this new discount, which comes in at 5% off of the regular premium price. The discount applies to all fuel alternative vehicles, including hybrids.

Farmer's Insurance states that they are only trying to reward those drivers who are being environmentally responsible. It is not a surprise that this Los Angeles based insurance company is following the West Coast trend on hybrid incentives. The town of Los Angeles offers free parking at meters for all hybrid owners. A clean air law may come into effect in the state of California as they attempt to pass several new vehicle laws. With Farmer's insurance being in the middle of these issues, it is only acceptable that they offer an insurance incentive as well. With over 25,000 hybrids registered in California, there is no doubt the community will start taking advantage of these insurance incentives.

Although Farmer's Insurance is one of the only companies offering a hybrid incentive at this time, it is certain that more will follow. When insurance CEOs were questioned they all agreed on why more companies were waiting to offer incentives. Most insurance companies only insure a handful of hybrids at this time, making it difficult for them to predict how they hybrids will fair in the claims department over time. The companies feel it is a bit soon to start giving any opinions about the car, and way too soon to begin offering incentives without proper statistics available.

Another thing insurance companies must look at as well is that the consumers who are buying hybrids are probably a "safer" group as a whole. Considering it is known that most buyers are interested in saving money on gasoline, insurance companies wonder if they can assume that these drivers are just more concerned in general. With a more concerned driver, they can expect that no matter what they drive, there will be fewer claims filed on their policies.

Most insurance companies admit that over time, if there are trends shown with fewer hybrids filing claims, then prices will likely go down. In turn, if there are more claims involving hybrids, the premiums will rise. At this time however, there is just not enough information to make any type of adjustments for hybrids however. Manufacturers feel that hybrids will continue to gain momentum in the market however and expect sales to double. Therefore, there will be more hybrids being insured. With time, insurance statistics will accurately be able to show whether or not it insurance discounts can logically be applied.

Certainly however, drivers who live in the Los Angeles area will be taking advantage of the hybrid incentives offered by Farmer's Insurance. The insurance incentive offered will likely be seen as an extra perk or reward for driving a vehicle that does not damage the environment in the same way a regular vehicle does. It will not likely be the deciding factor for those in the market for purchasing a new car however. It will just sweeten the deal for someone already shopping for a hybrid. However, it seems that with parking incentives, employer's incentives, tax incentives, and now insurance incentives, there must be a point of persuasion. If someone logically looks at all of the perks and rewards of owning a hybrid, then they will likely choose to purchase one.

Cure that Gas Pump Hyperventilating with a Hybrid

In the past few years, Americans have seen massive price increases in gasoline. An average American can literally watch the gasoline price signs being changed by as much as $0.15 a day. It is incredible to think that not too long ago prices were steady around $1.98. The problem with rising gasoline prices is that Americans are completely dependant on gasoline-powered transportation. Our schedules are constructed in ways that we cannot function properly without our cars. This is unfortunate is many ways, but a realistic discovery. In the warmer months, many adults can find ways to save on gasoline costs, such as biking to work or the grocery. However, during the winter months, it is less likely bicyclers will be as visible.

What some may call a “saving grace”, the hybrid came onto the market just in time for the rising prices of gasoline. Manufacturers, unsure of how hybrids would be accepted, did not prepare for their popularity however. At this time there are massive waiting lists for the newest hybrid models. Although there are many reasons consumers may be drawn to a hybrid vehicle, it is likely their ability to save consumers money on gasoline is a top reason.

A hybrid vehicle has a combination energy system involving a small gasoline engine and an electric motor. The vehicle uses both to utilize the energy in the most efficient manner possible. Drivers of hybrids cannot tell much of a difference when driving their car, compared to driving a regular gasoline powered vehicle. However, at the pump, consumers are seeing a great difference in price. Initially a hybrid may cost the consumer a bit more, mostly because of the high demand and low availability. Over time however, the initial cost is quickly recovered due to the money saved in gasoline.

Most typical drivers estimate they spend less than $20 a week in gas for their hybrid. This is due to the fact that hybrids get better mpg than conventional gasoline powered cars. Each hybrid model varies with its mpg, however it is estimated that the average mpg for a hybrid vehicle is around 46. It is estimated that if you own a vehicle that gets 21 mpg, you will spend an average of $8,500 a year on gasoline. If you own a hybrid that gets 46 mpg, you will save over $4,600 a year, spending only $3,900 on gasoline. If you buy a hybrid that gets 55 mpg or more, then you will save between $500 and $1000 more a year compared to a 46mpg hybrid.

As stated, the savings are phenomenal when looking at yearly gasoline costs. Even when a hybrid model is compared to a conventional car of the same model, there is a drastic difference in gasoline spending. To get a full picture of how much you can save however, you need to know what type of hybrid you own. There are three different types, which vary slightly in design.

A full hybrid relies on its electric motor quite a bit. When a full hybrid is stopped in traffic, the gasoline engine will instantly power off and may remain off, allowing the car to run on electric alone. A mild hybrid is similar, only it does not have the power to move without its gasoline engine assisting the electric motor. Muscle hybrids do not have gasoline engines that are smaller and therefore only enjoy idle-off and regenerative braking advantages. They have slightly improved fuel economy.

If you find yourself getting a panic attack every time you think about getting gas, then you may want to investigate the new hybrids. There is no reason to get a second job just to afford gasoline to your first job. Hybrids are being offered in the newest models. Manufacturers are also offering the same styles consumers have grown to love in hybrid models.

Popular styles like the Toyota Camry and the Honda Accord are becoming available. There is simply something for everyone. The great thing is that while hybrid owners can enjoy lower fuel prices, they can also feel proud knowing they are not harming the environment as much as conventional drivers. Take a look at the statistics and you will surely want a hybrid of your own!

All Hybrids Are Not Created Equal

How to Make the Right Choice for You

The modern hybrid vehicle comes in numerous makes and models, various colors and sizes. And as the desire and need for this trendy car grows, so will the options available to consumers. There are a variety of things that need to be considered in choosing a hybrid car. A smart buyer will do his homework and educate himself with the myriad of choices before making a final selection.

Design and size must be considered when deciding the hybrid car that is right for you. Take into consideration the number of passengers that you will normally be carrying in your vehicle. Also think of the types and sizes of objects you will typically be transporting. What about storage space? Currently, hybrid cars come in a wide variety of designs and sizes. If you are looking for a smaller automobile, there is a two-passenger hybrid on the market. Need something for the family? Hybrid makers have also developed a compact sedan that can accompany up to five passengers. Sport utility vehicle (SUV) lovers also have a choice of this popular car. Manufacturers have created a larger hybrid designed for those in need of more passenger and storage space.

When purchasing any automobile, the cost plays a major role. When choosing to buy a hybrid car, you must realize that it will come with a hefty price tag; a higher cost is one of the only drawbacks to this automobile. The average hybrid and sport utility vehicle range from approximately $20,000 to $50,000 for standard models. If you would like extra features, the price will increase. At $20,000, the hybrid costs almost $5,000 more than your average non-hybrid vehicle. However, the hybrid owners save on fuel in the long run. Hybrid owners have also been given government take breaks for the past few years. So, while the initial purchase may be a large one, in the end, buying a hybrid is quite beneficial.

Whether we want to admit it or not, appearance does matter, even when choosing an automobile. While hybrids may be created differently, many have the looks and styles of traditional vehicles. However, it you would like something a bit extraordinary, hybrid manufacturers have developed a range of futuristic models, all available in an assortment of colors. For those who want a standard automobile look, compacts, sedans, and sport utility vehicles are also offered. The hybrid makers offer a wide variety of accessories for an added personal touch to your new hybrid automobile.

The gas mileage of any automobile should be checked for accuracy before purchase. Gas mileage is especially an important factor when deciding on the right hybrid to buy. Hybrids are known for their excellent fuel efficiency. Mileage is an average 8-10 percent higher on a standard hybrid vehicle. The amount of money that is saved in gasoline will usually pay back the extra money that was spent in the initial purchase of the car.

Many car buyers wonder if hybrids have automatic transmissions. The answer is yes. However, the automatic transmission in the hybrid vehicle enables manual gear changes when desired. When in drive, the hybrid operates as a standard automatic, but allows the driver to utilize an included shift lever to manually change the gears. The hybrid automatic has all the advantages of a manual transmission, including better engine speed control, with use of a clutch pedal. Hybrid cars also have traction control systems. In these systems, when your car accelerates from a stop, traction control works to guarantee the greatest possible contact between your tires and the road surface. Traction control systems are especially ideal on icy or wet roads, as they decrease traction.

As you finalize the hybrid purchasing process, here are some other things that should be taken into consideration. If you know of a new hybrid vehicle that will soon debut, it is best to order this car through a local dealership. When dealing with a salesperson, you must always have confidence in his knowledge of the hybrid. You should not commit to a purchase until you have confidence in your salesperson, and feel they are someone you can trust. Such a large purchase should never be taken lightly.

Employees Incentives for buying hybrids

Studies show there is a link between employees’ driving habits and the overall success of the business they work for. Not only is there evidence that hybrid cars are great for the environment and the community, but now there is sufficient information saying hybrids are great for businesses.

CEOs are paying attention to these studies and are beginning to promote intelligent and responsible driving choices. Private companies are encouraging employees to purchase hybrids in several different manners. Of course the most popular option the employers promote is public transportation, bicycling, and car pooling. However, with the new hybrids available, there is something more logical to promote.

Some of the largest companies in the United States are offering employee incentives regarding the purchase of a hybrid vehicle. Some are offering cash amounts toward the purchase of cars meeting specific standards. Google, one of the most successful internet companies is offering this incentive. Google offers each employee $5,000 toward the purchase of a hybrid vehicle. The only regulations are that the vehicle must have an EPA fuel economy rating of 45 mpg or higher, and must also be rated a Partial Zero Emission Vehicle. This leaves only about three car options for employees, but it is making a huge difference.

Hyperion, the software company based in Santa Clara, California, is also offering their employees $5,000 toward the purchase of a hybrid. The company actually sets aside over $1 million a year toward these incentives. The company feels that they are giving back to the community that has often given to them. In addition however, they do admit that the hybrid incentives help them recruit and keep the best employees in the country. Companies like Timberland agree with Hyperion. They offer $3,000 toward a hybrid purchase, but only to employees that are with the company for two years or more. It is a great way to get employees to stay with the company, when turnover rate trends are quite high.

Other companies,nlike ST Microelectronics, are not offering cash toward hybrid purchases, but are offering allowances for those who drive hybrids. The allowances of near $84 a month are given to employees that drive hybrids with fuel consumption ratings of 39.2 mpg to 46.9 mpg. If employees drive a vehicle with a rating of 47 mpg or more, they get an additional $167 a month.

There are several explanations for why companies are choosing to offer these incentives on hybrids. Some may think they have partnerships with hybrid makers and such. That may be true in some cases, but overall it seems that these companies just want to do their part in helping the environment. They want to teach responsible behavior to their employees and realize by offering employee incentives, they will likely be able to do so. When one employee buys a hybrid, they will likely rave to their family and friends about their purchase. This will likely fuel a chain reaction of buyers. With more people driving hybrids, the environment will be harmed less and less with pollution. In addition to these incentives, many companies, like Google, offer extensive shuttle schedules their employees can use to cut down on pollution.

Corporations are not only offering cash to employees, they are also offering savings to consumers. The Farmers Insurance Group of Companies offers discounts to those who drive hybrids. The discount is around 5% and can be seen as an extra perk when considering a hybrid. Many California hotels are also offering free parking or reduced rates for hybrid drivers. At the University of Miami, students, professors, and staff driving hybrids save 50% on their permit price, which is around $350 a year.

Corporate and employee incentives for buying hybrids are becoming more and more popular. With large corporations realizing their influence, they are trying to do their part. Although skeptics may feel that there are ulterior motives from company’s who offer incentives, the fact is that no matter what the real reason is for the incentives, they are helping the environment. Even if the company gains in more ways than they will admit, everyone is benefiting from these great incentives.

So, if you work at a corporation that has hybrid incentives, be sure to take advantage of them. If your company does not provide these incentives, think about making a suggestion that they change their policies.

Ford Escape Hybrid Endures Commuter's Nightmare Road Test

The Ford Escape Hybrid (the first hybrid SUV) was run through a grueling "commuter's nightmare" road test at the New York International Automobile Show.

During the road test, the Ford Escape Hybrid averaged over 38 miles per gallon in a nonstop 37-hour drive in and around New York City. The hybrid SUV started the test with one 15-gallon tank of gas.

That one tank of fuel and a 330-volt electric battery kept the Ford Escape Hybrid running for 37 consecutive hours of city driving in the grueling urban congestion of Manhattan, for a total of 576 miles. The resulting fuel economy of the hybrid version of the Escape is a 75 percent improvement over the 20 mpg that the Environmental Protection Agency rates the conventional Ford Escape V-6 at.

An electric motor powered by a 330-volt nickel-metal battery pack and a conventional gas internal combustion engine are combined to run the Ford Escape Hybrid. When driving, the system chooses whether to use power from the electric motor or the gas engine, and when extra power is needed it will use both at the same time.

Unlike some hybrid vehicles, the Ford Escape is capable of running on electric power exclusively, and at speeds up to 25 miles per hour. The system constantly evaluates how to maximize fuel economy, and will use the best combination of electric and gas power to achieve that.

The casual observer will be unable to tell the difference between the hybrid and conventional versions of the Escape as they look exactly the same, and in fact come off the same assembly line. The dash board even appears normal, though there is a battery level gauge, and the tachometer has a below-zero setting that indicates the vehicle is running in electric only mode.

In a midtown-Manhatten road test, the Ford Escape Hybrid performed at the same levels you would expect from a conventional SUV, despite the fact that it ran much of the test in electric-only mode. The gas engine kicked in smoothly when needed, and in electric-only mode the vehicle is nearly silent. When the gas engine is running, it also recharges the battery. Power generated by braking is also used to charge the battery (called regenerative braking).

Despite common misconceptions, hybrid cars never have to be plugged in to an external electrical source for charging. The Ford Escape Hybrid is a good option for those struggling to choose between fuel economy and the comforts found in a SUV. You get the improved fuel economy and reduced emissions of a hybrid commuter car, and also the 4WD performance of a conventional SUV with plenty of room for passengers, pets, and cargo.

Consumer Stories of Hybrid Hell

Consumer Stories of Hybrid hell – When Good cars go bad

Hybrids are finally shaping up to be what engineers envisioned them to be. With some new driving techniques, many models are achieving the mileage estimates which the makers advertised.

The batteries, which the hybrid relies upon for their electric energy source, are now coming with longer warranties and replaceable modules, which keep one from having to replace the entire battery. The waiting lists and prices are slowly going down, too, as more makers come up with their own versions of the hybrid car or SUV.

All of these factors are changing the way that people think of hybrids; however, the journey of the hybrid into the mainstream auto industry has not been without some very bumpy moments. There is a population of hybrid owners who have not had their expectations met.

One of the biggest problems which hybrid owners have is not getting the mileage which they believe they should or would. Some hybrids claiming that they will get 50 mpg are only getting 30 mpg.

Drivers are frustrated as they attempt to actually relearn how to drive a car. This includes learning how to “pulse and glide,” which helps balance the car’s use of electric and gas when in speeds ranging from 30 to 40 mph. A combination of fancy pedal work and watching arrows on the dashboard, make many drivers feel like they are learning how to drive manual or worse.

The other factor that comes into play is how fast one likes to accelerate. Although many of the new hybrids are getting great acceleration performance, punching the gas on a hybrid also reduces one's mileage performance. If one wants to get great gas mileage on a hybrid, then they have to learn how to drive with more overall patience. There has to be less hard breaking and careful attention to pressure on the gas pedal to get the most out of one's hybrid.

Complaints of hybrids performing badly in certain weather conditions have also changed some owners' opinions about their environmentally friendly vehicle.

Apparently, the car battery used in hybrids needs some warming up. In full hybrids (or hybrids which can operate completely in either electric or gas mode without needing the other), this problem appears to have worked out to near nonexistence. For mild hybrids, which cannot have the electric or gas components work independently from one another, there have been cases of the hybrid performing poorly or much under expectations in cold weather. Too much heat has been known to wear down on a hybrid's battery as well, but this is being counteracted with thermal protection systems.

Stalling has also made Toyota have to contact Prius owners. Apparently, stalling or unexpected shutdowns of the engine may affect some drivers due to a software problem. The stalling sounds like a frightening prospect, but Toyota took precautions by inviting owners of that specific Prius to head to dealerships for a free repair. The news was also minimal in affecting opinion about the Prius since only a small number of drivers ever had to submit any complaints.

Some people have been known to complain about one of the strange side-effects of driving a hybrid: the silence. Because of the efficiency of the engine, the engine can drop to near silence when idling. Many say that although motorcycles and some models of regular cars are too loud, at least you can hear them.

The silence of the hybrid poses a problem for the deaf and for children who are often too wrapped up in playing to pay attention to cars to begin with. It is no wonder that makers are already considering ways to put the noise pollution back into hybrids to ensure that pedestrians are not the victims of new technology.

For many, it is no surprise that hybrids have been plagued with various glitches. The fact that many non-hybrid vehicles have had their share of recalls despite years of engineers working on them does not make hybrid owners feel better. Consumers who are willing to take the chance with a hybrid purchase are already wondering if their car will be obsolete in a couple years like a laptop computer. There is some comfort, however, that the glitches have not been as numerous as some expected and that the benefits are beginning to outweigh the negatives.

Tired out? How to choose the best tire for your hybrid car

Those who are unfamiliar with hybrid cars may not know that most come with new innovative tire designs. When replacing your tires on your hybrid car, you should stick with the low-rolling resistance tires. Those who own hybrid cars however know that these special low-rolling resistance tires are the best thing since the hybrid design itself. Consumers are definitely not the only ones with their eyes on the new low-rolling resistance tires however. Every major tire maker is getting in on the trend with new tires coming out frequently.

You may wonder what low-rolling resistance actually means. The name is a measurement of how tires roll on the road. If the tire rolls easily, then it is considered a low-rolling resistant tire. One benefit of these innovative tires is that they minimize the energy used by the tire. Tires use energy as heat in three different locations. First, there is heat between the tire and the road. Secondly, there is heat between the tire and the sidewall. Lastly, there is heat between the tire and the rim. The great thing about the low-rolling resistance tires is that they maintain traction, handling, and durability. When used with special suspension and brakes, they reduce resistance even more. The tires go through all of the approval standards of normal tires, so you can be sure they are safe to use.

Now that you know more about tires, you may wonder how they can make tires that reduce the energy usage. The answer is that tire manufacturers are using several different elements to create low-rolling resistance tires. First, they focus on the design of the tread. Different companies are using different designs, so you may seem many different designs coming to the consumer soon. After choosing a great design, they also choose lighter and stronger materials and reduce the sidewall to reduce flexing of the tire. The tires are made to run without air pressure. Most of them can still be used for up to 50 miles with no air pressure whatsoever. This is an amazing trait of these tires. With tires that can run without air pressure, you really have no need to carry around a jack or other tools for changing tires. You would have plenty of time to get to the mechanic shop or home before your tire would be useless.

Studies have shown that using low-rolling resistant tires on your vehicle can save on your gas budget. These efficient tires are fitted for each vehicle, which in turn will make your vehicle run smoother and more efficiently. It is estimated that you can save up to 6% on gas usage when using low-rolling resistance tires on your car. When considering these tires, which tend to cost about $40 more than regular tires for a complete set, think about what you could save at the pump. You may be spending a little more when purchasing the tire set, but you will save more than you are spending in the long run.

Although these great tires can save you bundles, low-rolling resistance tires have had a few complaints. Some drivers don't like the way they handle on the road. But most low-rolling resistance tires have great tread, if you are a wild driver, they may not be as great for handling. However, slow or cautious drivers have seen no negative change. It is more of a personal preference when it comes to how they handle.

Consumers are taking the benefits of the new low-rolling resistance tires very seriously. California has even passed legislation that requires all replacement tires sold in the state to be as efficient as tires on new vehicles, which are mostly low-rolling resistance tires. This is a huge step toward the low-rolling resistance trend. More states are considering legislation as well.

When looking for new tires for your hybrid car, be sure to check out the low-rolling resistance options. It is likely that your old tires were low-rolling resistance tires, so you will be used to the features they offer, whether or not you knew about their benefits before. You may be spending a little more in the beginning, but you will make up the upfront cost in gas savings almost immediately.

Do Your Civic Duty: Buy a Honda Hybrid

Hybrid cars are very popular for a number of reasons. They get excellent gas mileage, which can save huge amounts of money. They are environmentally friendly, which can save the planet, eventually. Moreover, they are a lot of fun and quite popular to drive. The car company Honda was one of the first auto manufacturers to make a hybrid vehicle.

The Honda Insight was introduced in 2000 as a miracle car. It is still a fairly popular model of hybrid vehicle. The Insight is a two door vehicle that seats two people. In creating this vehicle, Honda believed that owners of this car would be the type who usually only have one or two people in the car anyway.

To make the car incredibly efficient, Honda reduced the size as much as possible. That offers the car more power and more fuel efficiency, which is something most hybrid owners are searching for. In addition to the small seating area, they also offer very limited cargo and luggage space. Again, the thinking here is smaller is better in terms of engine efficiency. It pays off in terms of gas mileage, but many people are unhappy with the overall size of the vehicle, which leads them to purchase cars with regular engines based purely on interior and cargo space.

Another Honda hybrid option is the Civic hybrid. This vehicle, like all of Honda's hybrid autos, manages to combine the juice from an electric motor with the power from a traditional type engine whether it is a gasoline or diesel engine. The vehicle contains batteries that give power to the motor. These are recharged during while the car is running by using the motor as a generator.

This is better than most battery or electrically powered vehicles in that you don't have to plug a hybrid vehicle into an external outlet for any type of recharge time because the batteries continually recharge themselves just by running the car. The hybrid Civic is a four door vehicle, and it is comparable to most of the other traditionally powered Civics Honda has offered.

For many of the vehicles sold in the western United States, the Civic offers a zero emissions vehicle status, which is a real plus when you live in an environment that requires low emissions. The car itself offers a very sleek and sporty look. The interior is very functional, but looks a bit plain. There is a center storage console that also functions as an armrest. The Civic hybrid has rear headrests, and front bucket seats, with the driver's seat being height adjustable, a nice feature for people of varying sizes. Unlike the traditional Civic, the rear seat does not fold in the hybrid because of the necessary space for the hybrid's battery pack.

The hybrid does well in terms of collision tests, and most people consider it to be one of the safer vehicles on the road today. This car offers an electric based power steering system, and the wheels are a light alloy to reduce the weight of the vehicle. The Civic gets over forty miles to a gallon of gasoline, and features Honda's Integrated Motor Assist engine system. This combines a gas engine with a DC motor-generator unit. As a result, it is never used as a wholly electric vehicle. The Civic hybrid is great for city driving, as it has excellent low speed acceleration, and it is also good for highway driving as well.

One final Honda Hybrid option is the Honda Accord hybrid. This vehicle, like Honda's other hybrid offerings makes use of its Integrated Motor Assist engine system. It is also the first V-6 hybrid vehicle in the world. The Accord hybrid gets thirty seven miles to a gallon of gasoline on the highway and twenty-nine miles to a gallon in the city. It offers two hundred and sixty horsepower and offers several weight saving features like aluminum hood and bumper beams as well as a magnesium engine head cover to give the car more bang for the hybrid buck.

Honda has a number of hybrid offerings that all offer the benefits of a hybrid vehicle. Honda's unique technology, like the Integrated Motor Assist engine system, makes it a leader in the production of hybrid vehicle technology.