Pros and Cons of Hybrid Cars
Hybrid power has infiltrated in nearly every class of vehicle, from the luxury sedans to the minivans. Every person understands that hybrids provide superior fuel efficiency, but that is just part of the story.
Hybrid Car Pros
Cleaner Energy
The fact that hybrids run on a combination of electricity and gas, they emit less pollution as compared to other vehicles.
Incentives
Nowadays, the government provides incentives for regular hybrids. Also, those with plug-in technology come with some federal tax credits. A lot of states offer considerable rebates as well.
Regenerative Braking
Most of the energy that is produced during braking is used to charge the battery. The action increases the charge that is available to the electric motor that results in less fuel consumption. Moreover, it can extend the lifespan of your brakes.
Weight Savings
Most hybrids are made using lightweight materials. That means that they do not consume a lot of energy as compared to their full-weight counterparts.
Reduced Fuel Dependence
You should note that hybrids are designed to reduce the country’s dependence on fossil fuels. That also helps keep the price of fuel in check.
Smaller Engines
The fact that they do not power the vehicle alone, gasoline engines used in hybrid cars are usually light, small, and highly efficient.
Higher Resale Value
You should note that hybrid versions of the popular vehicles are in high demand. With the hybrid, you are bound to recoup a high percentage of the original investment when you decide to sell or trade.
Hybrid Car Cons
Poor Performance
You should note that hybrid cars are designed for economy, not speed. The total acceleration and output lag behind comparable gas-only vehicles. Hybrids are not equipped with performance enhancements and sport-tuned suspensions that are found in regular cars. Also, the location of the battery pack can result in less-than-ideal weight distribution that can affect handling.
Price
As much as the gap is narrowing, hybrids are still more expensive as compared to regular vehicles. A lot of buyers find this unacceptable.
Maintenance
The truth is that hybrid vehicles cost more to repair. Moreover, not all mechanics have the equipment and understand how they can fix it properly. Also, the technology in these cars is new.
