How Hybrid Cars Are Effective for the Environment
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Identification
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Hybrid cars and other hybrid vehicles combine two or more different power sources, typically gasoline and electricity. The vehicle has more than one type of engine, or a conversion kit which allows it to run on the alternative power source. Two effective environmental benefits are seen with hybrids: less gasoline usage and lower levels of harmful emissions.
Fuel Economy
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Unlike electric cars, an electric and gasoline hybrid recharges itself. When the vehicle slows down, has the brakes applied, or coasts going downhill, energy created by the wheels generates electricity, and is stored in a battery. Typically, the car operates on electricity until it reaches about 40 miles per hour, and then the gasoline engine turns on. At cruising speed, the car runs on both gas and electrical power. The system thus saves gasoline, and reduces dependence on fossil fuels, because it significantly increases fuel economy.
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Lower Emissions Levels
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Hybrid cars emit lower levels of pollutants than conventional gasoline-powered vehicles do, since they burn less gasoline. Five types of emissions are lowered with these engines: carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, nitrogen oxide and particulates. Carbon dioxide is the primary greenhouse gas theorized to be causing global warming, while carbon monoxide is an odorless and colorless toxic gas. Hydrocarbons create smog, and are known carcinogens, as well as a cause of lung disease. Nitrogen oxide also contributes to smog production, and is the primary cause of acid rain. Airborne particulates from emissions can cause respiratory problems, lung disorders and cancer.
Lower Emissions Questioned
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A 2009 study questions the validity of lower emissions from cars running on electrical power, however. Research from the United Kingdom-based group Transport Watch, found that diesel-powered cars produce only half as much carbon dioxide as electric cars, when taking into account the fossil fuel used to create the electricity, because electricity is commonly generated from coal.
Other Hybrid Types
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Other types of hybrid vehicles use renewable fuel sources such as biodiesel, developed from vegetable oils and animal fats, or ethanol, derived from corn. These hybrid cars also are effective for the environment because they use fewer fossil fuels, and have lower emissions levels.
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