Originally published July 26 2005
America catches up with hybrid craze in face of fuel costs
by Mike Adams, the Health Ranger, NaturalNews Editor
Although gasoline-electric hybrid technology vehicles have been available for more than ten yeas, U.S. consumers have only recently begun to purchase this product in droves; a move likely prompted by rapidly increasing fuel prices, the Marion Daily Republican reports.
Drivers tired of being hosed at the gas pump are turning to the new hybrid cars, which are touted for being environmentally friendly and tremendous gas savings.
Some of the new hybrid cars can get upwards of 50 miles per gallon.
"The hybrid technology is not new, it's been out for almost 10 years," said Jeff Hartline, Senior Sales Representative at Marion Toyota.
In their hybrid vehicles, Toyota has a gas engine with electronic motor.
The hybrid Toyota Prius looks much like any other car on the lot, but that's where the similarities end.
Smart Entry and Smart Start allow you to unlock the doors and start the car without having to take the key fob out of your pocket.
With the key fob on his body, the driver can walk away from the car and it will automatically lock.
Once the car senses the microchip in the key fob, the driver depresses the brake and presses the "Power" button, kicking on the electronic motor.
"The first generation Prius could get 45 to 52 miles per gallon, but this third generation averages 61 miles per gallon in town and 50 miles per gallon on the highway."
In non-hybrid cars, drivers typically get better gas mileage on the highway due to the decreased stopping and starting, but in a hybrid car the driver can get better mileage in town because, every time the driver stops and the brakes kick in, energy from the brakes is stored and used to power the electric motor.
Hartline said the 2005 Prius retails for about $22,000 and the government is offering a $2,000 tax deduction taken directly off the adjusted gross income for anyone buying a hybrid car.
Honda also produced its own version of hybrids including the Honda Civic, Honda Accord and Honda Insight.
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