What Is a Hybrid Vehicle?
In scientific terms, a hybrid is the result of mixing two genetically different things together. In the case of a vehicle, it refers to an engine that runs on both gas and battery power. Hybrids had a rocky start in the United States but, with rising oil prices, they have become increasingly popular over the years. Originally, the first hybrids were imports from Japan but now, both American and other auto manufacturers have entered the hybrid vehicle market.
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How Hybrids Work
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When moving, the car runs on battery power. When stopped, the car automatically switches to gas power which charges the battery.
Early Hybrids
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Hybrid technology is not new. As early as 1903, the Krieger Company had a battery-powered car with a supplemental gas engine.
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Environmental History
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In 1974, Victor Wouk and Charlie Rosen created a hybrid gas-electric vehicle. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency tested the vehicle, certified that it met strict clean-air auto program guidelines and then rejected the vehicle.
Hybrids in the United States
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In 1997, the Japanese released the Toyota Prius to the Japanese market. It wasn't released to the United States until 2000. The first Hybrid released to the United States' market was the two-door Honda Insight in 1999.
First U.S.-Manufactured Hybrid
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In 2004, Ford Motor Company released the Escape Hybrid which was the first U.S.-made hybrid and the first Hybrid SUV. Mercury followed soon after, with a hybrid version of the Mariner.
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