Hybrid Vs. Gasoline Powered Cars
In comparing hybrid vehicles to gasoline-powered vehicles, it is important to understand the distinction between the two. Gasoline vehicles are powered by a combustion engine, which uses unleaded fuel. Hybrid vehicles have two engines, one of which is electric and runs on battery power, while the other, a gasoline engine, runs on unleaded fuel. Hybrids switch automatically between the electric engine at low speeds and the gasoline engine at highway speeds.
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Miles Per Gallon
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Most hybrid versions of cars earn significantly more miles per gallon than the same car with a gasoline-only engine. Ford Motor Company's 2010 Fusion sedan earns 23 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. The hybrid version of the same car earns 41 mpg city and 36 mpg highway. While there is not much difference in terms of highway driving, there is a nearly 20 mpg difference in the city.
Cost
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Hybrids can be expensive, which is the primary deterrent for most would-be hybrid owners. The previously mentioned gasoline-only 2010 Ford Fusion retails for $19,270.00, whereas the hybrid version starts at $27,270. While the initial investment might be worthwhile to many consumers, it will be years before fuel savings cover the price difference.
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Variety and Availability
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Another major complaint from would-be hybrid buyers is the shortage of selection when purchasing a vehicle. Not all major car companies offer hybrid models, and those that do have a comparatively limited selection. Additionally, the popularity of hybrid vehicles can make finding one that is immediately available difficult, and some consumers might find themselves on a lengthy waiting list.
Reliability
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One common misconception about hybrid cars is that they are less reliable than gasoline-only vehicles. However, reliability is mostly determined by the make and model of the vehicle. Generally speaking, hybrids are not any more likely to experience significant mechanical or electrical problems than any gasoline-only car. Whether a hybrid model of a particular car is less reliable than the gasoline-only equivalent depends entirely on the manufacturer.
Horsepower
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Hybrids have also come under criticism for their lack of horsepower. Using the same 2010 Ford Fusion for comparison, the four-cylinder model offers consumers a 175 horsepower engine, whereas the V6 model has 240hp and 263hp versions. By contrast, the hybrid model has a 191 horsepower engine, which is more powerful than the I4 model, but significantly less powerful than either V6.
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