Going Green with a Hybrid Car

People today are more concerned about the pollutants that are destroying the environment, making the planet a fragile place. Global warming and fuel consumption are at dangerous levels, creating a need for alternative energy.

One such alternative that can be used by everyone to help conserve energy is a hybrid car. These hybrids are an alternative to large trucks and SUV's that burn huge amounts of gasoline. A hybrid car saves money in a struggling economy and uses less fuel for energy efficiency. Many people are not aware the hybrid car uses both a gasoline engine and an electric motor. The car's power is produces by a combination of electricity and gasoline. As the hybrid vehicle operates, the electric battery is recharged.

Many politicians and celebrities buy hybrid vehicles as a public display of their efforts to conserve the environment. They hope that their example will influence others to purchase a hybrid car, as well. A hybrid vehicle is more expensive than the gas propelled engine vehicles, but the long term savings on fuel and the environment is well worth the up front cost.

For those in the market for a new vehicle, take into account the many advantages of purchasing a hybrid car. The first and most obvious benefit is the fuel efficient engine. This is an economical engine that replenishes the electrical power in the battery pack. This uses the energy that a combustion engine would normally lose. One of the economical features in a hybrid engine is the idle stop feature. What this does is stop the gasoline engine when the car slows down or stops completely, decreasing fuel consumption, and emissions. The car automatically powers up again when needed. When driving at reduced speeds, the hybrid operates totally on electricity.

The next feature of the eco friendly car is the fuel economy. Depending upon the make and model of the hybrid, fuel consumption varies from 30MPG to an outstanding 50MPG. Not only does this reduce pollutants being released into the air, but saves money at the gas pumps. Most hybrids have a unique feature built right into the dashboard that lets the driver know how many miles per gallon the car is using.

A distinctive feature of the hybrid is that it is constructed of recyclable parts made of plastic and aluminum. This makes the car weigh less and has a smooth body so that it drives with a minimum air resistance. This reduction in wind drag eats up less gasoline in the hybrid car. Low rolling resistance tires are standard on a hybrid car and uniquely designed wheel covers which produce less road resistance. Another low resistance feature is the streamlined underside of the vehicle. The computerized components of the car, regulate which engine should be used, the gasoline or the electric. The computer also regulates the fuel consumption and when the engine should stop.

Now that car manufacturers realize that the consumer is demanding better fuel economy and eco-friendly vehicles, there are more sizes and styles being offered in hybrid vehicles. The cars are available in compact, sedan size, hatchback, compact SUV's, and even full sized SUV's for large families. The hybrid engines are changing all the time to be more fuel efficient and environmentally safe.

Another consideration when thinking about purchasing a hybrid vehicle is the tax credit available. The IRS started giving tax credits in 2006 for consumers purchasing hybrid vehicles. This credit differs depending upon the make of the hybrid. For instance, according to the IRS, 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid 2WD, has a tax credit of $3000, 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid 4WD, has a tax credit of $2200, while the 2007 Silverado 4WD Hybrid Pickup has a tax credit of only $250. The IRS has an extensive list of vehicles and the related tax credits for each. It is a good idea to go to the IRS website and check on all the tax credits available for hybrid vehicles.

These green vehicles are the future. Environmental and energy issues are not going away. They need to be addressed now and the hybrid car is one way that is helping conserve energy and clean the pollutants in the environment.