Tuesday, June 24, 2008

Hybrid Cars : A Quick Introduction

By Joseph Then

Let's face it; we need to do our part to save the environment. Well, if you own a car or have heard the news, there is something called hybrid cars? What exactly is a hybrid car? Do you know? Well, if you don't, do yourself a favour and read on.

A hybrid vehicle generally, is a vehicle that uses two or more distinct power sources to propel. There are certain common pwer sources they are: on-board rechargeable energy storage system (RESS) and a fueled power source, air or human powered bicycle with electric motor or gas engine.

Most hybrid cars are referred to as hybrid-electric vehicle or HEV. Usually, a HEV uses combustion and electric motors to proper the vehicle. I bet you don't know what I am talking about. It's okay.

Let me tell you. HEV is a vehicle which combines a conventional propulsion system with an on-board rechargeable energy storage system. Why combine? Simple, it is to achieve better fuel economy.

HEVs are more expensive (the so-called "hybrid premium") than traditional ICE vehicles (ICEV), due to extra batteries, more electronics and in some cases other design considerations. The trade-off between higher initial cost and lower fuel costs (often referred to as the payback period) is dependent on usage .Traditional economy vehicles may result in a lower direct cost for many users (before consideration of any externality).

Why choose hybrid cars? The most obvious benefit of having a hybrid car is that we can do our part to save the planet as a hybrid car is environmentally friendly. The other thing you have to trust me on is that a hybrid car is fun to drive. If you ever have an opportunity to test drive a hybrid car, you should jump at it right away.

So, other than being environmentally friendly and fun to drive, why should you get a hybrid car instead of the conventional car? I am going to tell you all the benefits of driving a hybrid car.

We all know that the price of fuel is just going up. And, with the higher standard of living, not many can afford. You have to trust me on this as it is proven that the fuel consumption of a hybrid car is much lesser than a conventional one.

Would you like to have a car as durable as a range rover? Well, I know I would. The gasoline engine and the brakes are very durable, almost like it has never been use before. Other than that, the cost of replacing a hybrid car's battery is close to nothing because it is almost never replaced.

Are you ready to own a hybrid car? Well, let me tell you this; in a about 10 year's time most cars on the roads will be hybrids. Even the most popular hybrid car company, Toyota is going to increase production to a million in less than a decade's time.

Your next step? Put this to the test right away. Maybe you should start plannig to do your part to save the planet by trading your conventional car with a hybrid car.

About the Author:

0 comments: