Why Hybrid
A hybrid car is one that uses more than one form of onboard propulsion, according to Edmunds.com. The hybrid cars we see on the road today are a combination of a traditional, internal combustion, gas-powered engine and an electric and battery pack. The availability of the electric motor cuts down on the need for the gas powered engine, and therefore cuts down on the need for gasoline.
Why not hybrid?
The benefits of driving a hybrid may seem obvious. Are there any reasons NOT to drive one? According to expert content blog How Stuff Works, there are at least 5 reasons not to take a hybrid. Among them:
Cost – Hybrids usually cost more up front. Your initial investment is higher. And they still use some gas, so even though you will save money on gasoline every month, it may take you a long time to recoup that initial debit. Think about your driving style. If you have a lead foot, it may take even longer for those gas savings to add up to something substantial.
Environment – There’s still a gasoline-powered engine in that hybrid. So even though some of the time you’re using that electric motor, you’re still having the same effects on the environment when you’re not. If your priority is the environment, a hybrid may not be the best choice.
Alternatives – A couple manufactures offer all-electric cars. And while Tesla may have drawn some controversy, BMW still has a well-respected reputation. There’s no internal combustion by products with the all-electric models. Also, How Stuff Works offers up clean diesel as an alternative to hybrids. Diesel engines are now available in sedans and get competitive gas mileage.
Hybrids are a great option to the all-gas powered engine. However, stop and think about how you drive and what your goals are before jumping into one.
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