Pros & Cons of a Hybrid

Toyota's Prius is the HEV success story.

Hybrid electric vehicles, or HEVs, combine the standard internal combustion engine with an electrically powered drivetrain system. The advantage of this system is that one engine system supplements the other, allowing for a vehicle that is reliable, low-emission and high mileage. There are some distinct advantages and disadvantages to this type of vehicle.

Cost

Although somewhat subsidized by government tax break initiatives, hybrids can be thousands of dollars more expensive than standard internal combustion engine vehicles. This is owning to the newness of the technology. However, this is somewhat offset by lower fuel use, greater fuel efficiency and lower cost of basic maintenance. Brakes have to be replaced less often, for example.

Pollution

Not only is less fuel used in a hybrid vehicle, but it is also used more efficiently. Emissions during idling -- a major contributor to vehicle pollution -- are cut to zero due to the electric engine. Heat that is normally dissipated during braking is converted to electrical energy that recharges the electric motor, regenerating the capacity of the battery without needing to ever plug the car into an electrical outlet.

Battery

The battery in a hybrid vehicle is one of the more expensive and delicate components. When it inevitably fails after 9 to 12 years, a replacement can cost thousands of dollars. Hopefully, as battery technology grows more sophisticated, these batteries will grow in capacity, life and decrease in cost.

Fuel Economy

A computerized system handles a smooth transition from electric power to gas power in the most efficient way possible. On start-up and under low speed conditions, the electric engine is used almost exclusively, drastically reducing the use of fuel. Low vehicle weight, a smaller engine and aerodynamic design further increase fuel economy.

References

• Hybrid Cars -- Pros and Cons
• Hybrid Car Pro and Cons
• Pros and cons of hybrid cars