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Advantages of Hybrid Vehicles

Hybrid technology has existed since the 1990’s and is now affordable enough that it is a viable option for regular use. So what exactly IS a hybrid? Basically, it’s a powered vehicle that draws power from more than one energy source. Most commonly, these sources are electric combined with gas, diesel, or natural gas. For the purposes of this article, we will consider hybrid to mean a combination of an electric motor and a gas engine. So what’s the big deal, and why are hybrid vehicles a good idea?

  1. Reduced fuel costs
    A hybrid vehicle uses less fuel, thereby improving gas mileage. Purchasing less fuel also reduces the demand for fossil fuels, which has the overall economic effect of reducing demand for fossil fuels, thus forcing the price down. In the long run, they can be money-savers.
  2. Fewer Emissions
    Hybrid vehicles are environmentally friendly! Less fuel use means fewer emissions and a less negative environmental impact. It’s a good thing for everyone.
  3. Instant Torque
    Electric vehicles provide their maximum torque rating instantly. This means there is no need to wait for the engine to rev up. Every single foot pound of torque is ready when you are. This feature allows hybrids to keep up with their gas-guzzling counterparts.
  4. No Idling
    A hybrid vehicle will turn the engine off when the vehicle comes to a standstill. This reduces your fuel use and emissions.
  5. Financial Benefits
    Saving money on gas directly reduces your disposable income spent on transport.  Purchasing a hybrid vehicle also makes you eligible for federal tax incentives.
  6. Regenerative Braking Systems
    Whenever you apply the brake, your hybrid vehicle catches the energy created and recharges its own battery. This eliminates the need for you to pull over and plug in intermittently.
  7. High Resale Value
    Hybrids are normally sold in smaller numbers and are usually rarer than conventional fossil fuel-only vehicles. They are also normally manufactured with a higher standard of equipment than the traditional vehicle, which adds to their value, and they also have a high level of reliability. All these things make hybrids a desirable option for pre-owned sales. This increased demand combined with a limited supply means you can sell it at a premium when you’re done with it.

Stay tuned for our future blog post on why hybrid vehicles may not be for you.

Sources
conserve-energy-future.com/advantages-and-disadvantages-of-hybrid-cars.php
autobytel.com/hybrid-cars/car-buying-guides/9-benefits-of-hybrid-cars
carsdirect.com/green-cars/how-do-hybrid-cars-work
fueleconomy.gov/feg/taxevb.shtml