Hybrid Car Reality

I’ve always said it and will continue to say it:  I’m a Hybrid car fan.  The fuel economy (whopping 45 MPG city driving), the quiet auto-stop, the smooth acceleration, the electricity regeneration braking system, or simply the concept of it, appeals to the geeky side of me.  Unfortunately, with the recent feeding frenzy of all things Hybrid, the only thing preventing me from staying in the Hybrid car reality is the cost.   Dealers want to sell me the sticker price PLUS a few thousands more.  It’s ridiculous.  Moreover, the battery replacement after 5 years may cost $3000.  With gas price not even close to reaching $10/gallons, it certainly doesn’t make any sense to pay extra for a Hybrid car.  Also, since the demand is already high, the government will not step in to provide incentives such as tax breaks and car pool privileges.

The good news is, starting late 2009, owning a Hybrid may be a reality again for me.  Hybrid battery makers said they’ll be lowering the production cost of battery production (passing the savings to the consumers), and the re-introduction of the Honda Insight (with a sticker price of $18,000).  They will promote lower prices for future Hybrid cars, which has been the stumbling block for most new car buyers.  At least for Honda, they have the sensibility to continue making fuel efficient cars including talk about a Fit Hybrid!  Who says we don’t need smaller, ultra fuel economy, commuter cars?  I can certainly use one.

Tags: battery, cars, economy, fuel