Hybrid cars offer pros and cons to ownership. Those considering purchasing a hybrid car will want to learn about the beneficial features and negative problems that come with owning a hybrid car.
A hybrid is a vehicle that offers two separate resources to power the car, usually a combustion engine that runs on fuel and one that runs on battery.
Where battery power will give you better fuel economy, and this is a plus, there are other features that can cause you more complaints and annoyances.
So, let’s take a look at these differences…
First, it’s true that most hybrid cars will get you between 35 and 50 miles per gallon, saving you money at the pump, but you’ll pay more for your initial investment. Hybrid cars are more expensive than their gas-powered counterpart, and hybrids typically cost you $5,000 to $10,000 more than a gas-powered vehicle.
Additionally, the industry is learning that a hybrid’s resale value will bring in less money if you decide to sell your used hybrid in the future.
If you own a hybrid, it’s important to take advantage of tax credits at both the federal and state levels. This will help you recover part of the initial investment.
This brings me to the next consideration of the hybrid pros and cons, the cost of the battery. It will cost you between $1,000.00 and $6,000.00 to replace your car battery. But, you’d be delivered if I didn’t tell you that most manufacturers believe the battery will last the life of the vehicle and, in fact, offer warranties of 8 to 10 years or 80,000 to 100,000 miles. Because hybrid cars haven’t seen longevity, time will have to be the determining factor in this equation.
Another disadvantage of the hybrid car is the lack of acceleration when entering the highway systems in the United States. You may find that you are missing some of the boost that the gas engine gives you.
So the cost of saving Mother Earth may leave you in the slow lane of the road.
Next is the sound factor. When hybrid car owners enjoy a car that runs more quietly, they run the risk of fearing that the car is too soft. Many pedestrians or bicyclists do not hear the car’s engine, which causes the driver to be much more cautious. Hybrid drivers need to be aware of pedestrians and bicyclists sharing the same roadways.
The pros and cons of hybrids offer a good reason to consider before buying one of these models. Saving at the pump and saving the environment could cost you in other ways. It’s up to you…