Just Say No To Hybrids - Three Top Reasons Why Some People Won't Buy Hybrids
January 7th, 2009

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For every person who hails the benefits of buying an environmentally friendly hybrid car, there is at least one critic. Hybrids are supposed to be good for the environment, cheaper than conventional cars and require less maintenance. Some people do not buy this argument and believe hybrids are not worth the extra money they cost.

When hybrid cars first became popular in the 1990s, people began to take notice. Consumers liked the idea of having lower emissions and saving a bundle on gas. In the 2000s, auto manufacturers also took notice of hybrids. Technology advanced and more styles and options are available now for hybrid consumers. Still, some say, “Just say no to hybrids”. Here are the top three reasons why some people won’t buy hybrids.

Cost: While hybrid cars are supposed to be cheaper both in purchase price and fuel use, that is not always so. The purchase price of a hybrid can be anywhere from $3000 to $5000 more than that of a traditional vehicle. That means that the amount of money you may save at the pump by buying a hybrid will depend on the gasoline prices. It may take years to see the savings in gas on a hybrid. It could, in theory, take between 10 to 15 years to make up for the increased price consumers pay when purchasing a new hybrid.

When comparing the ultimate gas mileage of a hybrid car to a traditional car, there is not much difference. It is estimated that with normal use, that the difference in gas usage between a hybrid and a non-hybrid car is less than 10 percent.

In addition, consider the cost of insuring a hybrid. It goes without saying that a more expensive car costs more to insure. Most insurance companies do not give any sort of discounts for purchasing a hybrid vehicle. As a matter of fact, many insurance companies will not insure them at all.

Special parts and maintenance: Hybrid cars rely on the latest computer technology. New technology often means a bigger price when needing maintenance or new parts. A hybrid runs off both a small engine and a battery, which is charged by the generator. Many auto companies offer drivers longer warranties for their hybrids. But what happens when the warranty runs out? The battery that a hybrid uses is much more expensive than a traditional car battery. These batteries can run anywhere from $1000 all the way to $8000. It is possible that the higher prices are because the demand for hybrids is so great at the time and that prices could drop in the future.

The newer technology of the hybrid also means special training and maintenance. If a driver takes their hybrid to any car shop for repairs, chances are they will not be able to repair it. Specially trained technicians and new computer software is often needed when repairing a hybrid. This also equals more expensive repairs and often means having all the maintenance done at the car dealership.

Driving Habits: You can get good gas mileage from a hybrid car, but drivers have to remember a few road rules to help their hybrid be as efficient as possible. Stopping and starting can decrease the fuel efficiency of a hybrid car making it no more efficient that a traditional car. Hybrid drivers should drive slower. The aerodynamic drag on a hybrid can increase the faster the car is driven. It is recommended that when driving a hybrid, that drivers should not drive at increased speeds. Also, drivers should maintain a constant speed. Each time your speed or slow a hybrid, it uses vital energy. Keeping at a constant speed level will help keep the car efficient. Also, drivers should avoid abrupt stops. When a driver stops a hybrid, the electrical motor acts like a generator. This takes some energy out of the car as it slows down. It is recommended when driving a hybrid to take more time to gradually slow the car so it can recover more energy. Stopping and starting frequently and abruptly will waste energy in a hybrid.

The bottom line of hybrids is to do some research. Find out what matters most, a more expensive hybrid car that is better for the environment or a less expensive, traditional car that will not be as environmentally friendly

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