Challenging the Top Seven Myths about Hybrid Vehicles

Even if you are not an environmental activist, hybrid cars might intrigue you. You have heard that these cars are environmentally friendly, cheaper, have better gas mileage and are the wave of the future. However, before you rush out and plunk down a wad of cash for one of these hybrid cars, learn about common myths surrounding these new types of cars.

Toyota was one of the first major carmakers to offer a hybrid car to the public. The Toyota Prius is wildly popular and even stars and celebrities are rushing to buy one of these cars. Because of the popularity of the Prius, other car companies started to take notice. Many of these companies are offering their own version of the hybrid. However, there are still many misconceptions when it comes to knowing about and understand these cars. When you learn more about these cars, you may just want to go to your local car dealership to test drive one.

Myth: If I get a hybrid car, I will have to plug it in my garage every night to recharge.

Fact: This is not true. The fact is that these cars have what is called “regenerative breaking”. This means that each time you drive your car energy is lost. So, when you step in the break, the car automatically recharges. It is nothing you have to do—it is an automatic process. The technology is there to make plug in cars. If this were to become popular, it would mean that your car could theoretically run without ever having to fill up at the pump! Until that time comes, you will gas your hybrid up just as you would with any other car.

Myth: Hybrid cars are boring. There is no choice in carmaker, or body style.

Fact: Also not true. There are so many car companies that are coming out with hybrid cars. Toyota is probably the most well known, but did you know you can get a Chevrolet hybrid truck, a Lexus or a Ford SUV, all hybrid cars? You are not limited when you decide to buy a hybrid.

Myth: Hybrid cars run slowly. They can’t drive over 50 miles per hour.

Fact: Again, this is not true. Hybrid cars can drive just as fast as most other cars on the market. They may never win a race against a Corvette, but for most driving purposes, these cars do the job. In fact, the Honda Accord has one of the fast hybrids on the market followed by the Toyota Highlander.

Myth: Hybrid cars are expensive.

Fact: It is true that hybrids will cost you a bit more when you buy them, however, part of this is due to the basic principle of supply and demand. It is incredibly difficult for you to simply walk on a car lot and purchase a hybrid. Most car lots have long waiting list for the hybrids. This makes them charge premium prices. In addition, the cost of rechargeable batteries, the high tech computers and the electric motors also contribute to the slightly higher price. However, you should keep in mind that hybrids have a very good resale value. Some used hybrids can go for just as much as a brand new one.

Myth: Hybrid cars are a fad.

Fact: It is estimated that over 50 new hybrid cars will be introduced by the end of the decade. Hybrids have a strong staying power and it is very likely that the trend for hybrids will continue. In addition, as technology advances, these cars will have a very bright future.

Myth: I can get 100 miles to a gallon with a hybrid.

Fact: Probably not. However, you can expect to get better gas mileage with these cars than most other types of cars. They are the most fuel-efficient cars available on the market today.

Myth: Only the rich and famous buy hybrid cars.

Fact: Have you looked around? This is simply not true. While many celebrities and stars do have hybrids, many of your friends and neighbors do, too. These cars are for everyone and these cars will be easier to find on the streets in the years to come. It is safe to say that hybrid cars are here to stay for the long haul and for anyone that wants one.