If you are concerned about the environment, and / or want to save the earth from further pollution and depletion of natural fuels while you save on fuel costs, you should buy a hybrid. A hybrid is an eco-friendly, non-polluting, fuel-efficient, compact car and commuting in it will be your contribution towards the environment.
Shopping for a hybrid is a complex process, because all leading car manufacturers have launched their own models of these fuel-efficient cars. Hybrid car manufacturing is the fastest growing sector in the automotive industry, with a 40% increase predicted over the current decade.
The hybrid engine is built to be very fuel-efficient. When the car stops at a traffic signal, the engine gets switched off automatically, restarting when the car is put in gear. The car runs on dual energy sources, a gasoline engine and an electric motor. The motor is present to provide acceleration and its batteries get recharged automatically by utilizing the kinetic energy that the car generates while you press the brakes.
Hybrids are built using light weight material and are quite compact in size. The aerodynamic design decreases drag, while the unique rubber tires decrease friction. The nickel-metal hydride battery is very competent. These vehicles produce lesser amounts of emissions and provide excellent mileage.
Hybrid owners are high on customer satisfaction because the financial benefits and savings on fuel are excellent and factual. Based on annual average use, a hybrid uses fuel approximately worth less than $ 1,400 a year.
The savings extend to car insurance as well, since many insurance companies offer immediate discounts simply for owning a hybrid. This discount can further be enhanced based on good driving records and other usual discounts.
As gas prices continue to escalate, consumers realize the significance of depleting natural fuel reserves and have adopted the concept of going green more enthusiastically. While it supports their aspiration to go green, consumers now understand that driving a hybrid is also financially responsible.
With this emerging pattern of consumer awareness, car manufacturers have caught up too, with the biggest ever number of hybrids for sale worldwide.
To promote the hybrid culture, the government provides income tax credits for some buyers; however the rules regarding this policy vary by state. Do check it out with your accountant because the credit can at times be substantial.
If you are hesitant about converting to a hybrid due to the additional cost, rethink all the benefits and savings you achieve by buying one, and most importantly, it will be your contribution towards saving the planet.