A hybrid car uses two or more separate sources to power the engine. Those currently on the market tend to be powered by petrol and electric (RESS Rechargeable Energy Storage System) motors, with each source capable of working independently or, in some cases, in unison.

Alternative hybrid propulsion power sources include hydrogen, CNG, propane and solar. Each alternative power source offers its own benefits depending on the desired results. For example, hybrid cars marketed to the consumer are geared towards reduced emissions and driving range.

Generally, dual fuelled vehicles have smaller, less powerful but more efficient engines.

* increased fuel economy
* lower emissions

* shutting down of the conventional fuel source during idle periods.
* tandem use of fuel and electric power sources at times of peak demand, this includes standing starts, passing and hill climbing.
* recapturing, storing and reusing used energy via battery storage

Going back 20 years hybrids have been in use by corporate and government bodies, with fuel economy taking priority over power and greenhouse emissions. Hybrids have been available to the public for about the last decade. Most commonly these vehicles are petrol or diesel fuelled coupled with an electric motor.

The hybrid car really comes into its own in city traffic driving conditions. The stop-start nature of this type of driving, in addition to idling at intersections and roundabouts, gives the hybrid car the edge over conventionally fuelled vehicles. Hybrid vehicles are also a lot quieter than conventional vehicles, especially at idle. This is seen as a particular advantage with inner city driving as it cuts down on noise pollution.

Hybrid Cars may well be the way ahead for the future for the advantages in fuel economy and reduced noise and emissions that they offer. However, presently the advantages don’t extend to the consumer’s bank balance.

Hybrid cars cost the consumer more on the forecourt than standard cars. This is because of the extra engineering and manufacturing costs that have been invested in the vehicle. Any potential fuel savings may easily be cancelled out when factoring buy-price into the equation.

Additionally, all cars have a battery, and batteries eventually require replacing. The cost of replacing the battery on a hybrid car is significantly higher than that of purchasing a new battery for a conventionally powered car.

Car Gas Mileage
Gas Engine Saver
Fuel Additives
Improve On MPG
Fuel Cleaners
Fuel Cost Calc
Hybrid Cars
Auto Biofuels

Car Buying
Wrecked Car Value
Japanese Imports
Cars Auctions
Car Loan Calc
Car Leasing
Best Time To Buy
Car Trade-in Value
Haggle and Win

VIN Decoder
Free VIN Check
WMI Identifier
VIN Number
VIN - Checkdigit