Hybrid Vehicles Although Pricier Than

¶ … Hybrid Vehicles

Although pricier than normal fuel cars, hybrid cars incorporate several advantages that might drive consumers to choose them over normal car or straight electric cars. The hybrid car is said to combine the best features of the fuel engine with the best of electric cars. Features such as lower fuel consumption mitigate the higher price tag, and many consumers feel that the advantages outweigh the initial investment. According to Philip Dunn, a hybrid car is an automobile that uses a combination of two motors: a fuel-powered and an electric motor. This combination is used to provide the driver with the optimal efficiency and power whenever either is needed.

According to James Koster, lower fuel consumption in hybrid cars occurs especially in regions where the driver frequently starts and stops, such as in town. The reason for this is that the electric motor is in operation during times when low power and low speeds are needed. When the vehicle starts, it uses the fuel motor, but during driving in low speed areas, the electric motor is used. Another advantage over purely fuel engines is that the vehicle emits fewer harmful gases into the atmosphere, and is hence more environmentally friendly.

An advantage over purely electric engines is that the batteries in hybrid cars do not need to be charged from an outlet, and it will also never run out of power (Dunn). The reason for this is that the fuel motor charges the battery when in operation during driving. The vehicle has more power than an electric engine, because the fuel motor is used when power requirements dictate the need for this. Over long distances, the hybrid car therefore has more power than the electric engine, and also charges the battery when in operation. Fuel consumption over longer distances however tend to be less favorable than in areas where the electric motor is used. Fuel consumption is still more favorable than for fuel only engines, as hybrid cars tend to be smaller and lighter, as well as more aerodynamic. The engine is smaller, and in combination with the electric motor during slower drive times, the driver saves considerably in this area. Fuel consumption advantage is an important consideration in an age where fuel prices are skyrocketing, as well as in the current political climate. The hybrid car therefore provides the driver not only with the advantage of power when needed, but also with the vitally important fuel consumption advantage that is so prominent in electric cars.

Another advantage of hybrid cars is maintenance. The fact that two different power sources are used on an as-needed basis reduces the wear and tear on both the motors. This results in lower maintenance time and costs. Another element of lower maintenance is the brakes. Regenerative braking is the result of both the electric motor and the regular brakes combining to slow down the car. The ultimate result is less wear on the brakes. The brakes are also connected to the batteries, which mean that they charge while slowing down the car. The tires are harder and more inflated than normal tires, which causes both less drag and less wear, and saves energy. This is also a factor that connects with lower fuel consumption.

While the hybrid car is a fairly new phenomenon in the United States, the government does offer tax incentives for buyers of these cars, further mitigating the higher buying cost of these cars.