How to Buy a Plug-In Hybrid Car
The stories are all over the media--nearly every motorist knows that using a gasoline-fueled engine is bad for the environment, in addition to complicating international politics. Plug-in hybrid cars hold promise for transitioning to full-electric cars, but there's a big question: how do you get behind the wheel of your own plug-in hybrid? Once that vehicle is in your garage, you'll be able to plug your car in at night and set off to work in the morning on a gasoline-free commute--as long as your workplace isn't too far away.
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Instructions
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Understand that it will not be easy to purchase a plug-in hybrid car until 2010 or even 2011. While the Chinese have access to a plug-in hybrid, it hasn't sold in great numbers. (According to Green Car Reports, total sales since December 2008 are under 100.) Technology Review states that Fisker Automotive's "Karma" earned the honor of being the first commercially available (December 2009) plug-in hybrid. Chevrolet plans to release the Volt in 2011, and Hyundai plans to release their own plug-in hybrid in 2012.
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Come to grips with the fact that, even though your plug-in hybrid will be a small sedan, it will cost much more than a car of similar size. The Dallas News estimates that the Chevy Volt, a four-door sedan, will list for approximately $40,000.
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Look for the tax subsidies that will defray some of that cost. (Car salespeople will also have easy access to this knowledge.) As part of the economic stimulus package the president and Congress put forth in 2009, buyers of new plug-in hybrid cars will receive tax breaks up to $7,500, which takes a significant bite out of the stiff price tag. The total cost of these credits, according to Motor Authority, will be approximately $2.8 billion. This is a lot of money, but it will help Americans put a million of these cars on the road by 2015.
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Decide which upcoming plug-in hybrid car you will purchase. If, for example, you are interested in the Chevy Volt, contact a nearby dealer. While the cars will not be in plentiful supply for quite some time, making the dealer aware that you're ready to buy could get you on a waiting list.
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Head to the dealership when your plug-in hybrid is available. The salespeople will be happy to take you through the process. After a test drive, and a look at your trade-in, if you have one, the dealer will make you an offer. If the terms are acceptable, you simply sign on the dotted line and take delivery of the vehicle. If the car is a Chevy Volt, you will be able to drive 40 miles on a single charge, then simply plug your vehicle in for an overnight charge.
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