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| Hybrid Cars - Hybrid Vehicles | ||
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The term hybrid cars or hybrid vehicles refers to an automobile power system that combines a conventional gasoline engine and an electric motor. A computer in the car determines which type of engine should be used at any particular moment to achieve greatest efficiency. Switching from one engine to the other is automatic and generally unnoticed by the driver. Hybrid cars are generally more expensive than their non-hybrid cousins. The cost difference is actually magnified because hybrids are in high demand, making price discounts difficult to find. The higher up-front cost is offset by much improved fuel economy and tax credits, although there is some evidence from Consumer Reports suggesting that EPA mileage ratings on hybrid cars are exaggerated. Consumers expecting to save money on fuel costs must consider the intial higher cost, which require some years to offset. Hybrid cars produce far less environmental pollution that conventional gasoline powered vehicles, which is another reason for their popularity. Since this type of vehicle is so new, long-term reliability and maintenance cost projections, especially for battery-bank replacement, are not yet available. Toyota is currently the leader in sales with the ever-popular Prius. Toyota expands their hybrid technology to the Highlander, Camry, and some Lexus models. Ford's hybrid Escape is a hot seller, as is Honda Civic hybrid, and Honda Accord hybrid. Nissan, GM, and other car makers are expected to be selling new hybrid models soon. Hybrid cars generally make good lease vehicles because they maintain high resale values, which means high lease-end lease residual value, which means lower monthly lease payments. For more information, see: The Lease Guide
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