2010: Year of the hybrid?
Today, critics often question the value of hybrid cars. Only a few can save money over the long term at today's gas prices they state and reliability is still an issue.Yet, hybrid technology is only just emerging and the future of hybrid vehicles won't really be understood until at least 2010. By then Toyota will offer 14 different hybrid models. Even Detroit will offer numerous hybrid vehicles. Plus, Nissan, Hyundai, Porsche - even Suzuki - will be in the hybrid game.
Then it won't just be the Toyota Camry hybrid that challenges the Prius for total sales, but many new hybrid models.
More important, there will be several different types of hybrid technology on the market and many more hybrid parts suppliers. This competition will give consumers real choices. Should I get the Chevy Tahoe hybrid, Ford Escape hybrid or Toyota Highlander hybrid? That will really begin to depend on your needs, such as towing, and that is just the beginning.
Moreover, Toyota has indicated that its hybrids in 2010 will not only be significantly more fuel efficient, but the cost differential between hybrid cars and conventional cars could be cut in half. Other automakers will have to do the same if they want to compete.
Competition, better technology, cheaper costs - by 2010 the question won't be why would you want a hybrid, it will be why would you want anything less than a hybrid.
Labels: Camry hybrid, Escape hybrid, Ford, Ford Escape hybrid, Highlander hybrid, Honda, Hybrid Vehicles, Hyundai, prius, toyota
posted by Dahcredyns at
10:06 AM
6 Comments:
'95 Ford Explorer owner. A happy owner, except for the fact that I want to get a Hybrid or upgrade. I doubt that what I am about to ask exists, but, do know of any companies in the US that could convert or "hybridize" my old Explorer into a more efficient vehicle and who is doing the research on this? Thanks, JD
I agree totally. NOt only is it time to move over to hybrids for the environment factor but also for teh fact that it would really ease our fuel expenses which has a deep implication again for the betterment of the world.
JD - UC-Irvine has done a lot of work converting convetional vehicles into hybrid plug-ins. Still, I doubt it would be very cost effective to hybridize your Explorer - unless you are an a very good mechanic.
Cool, "dahcredyns" thanks for the lead. I am no mechanic, but I am extremely interested in companies or research programs working on upgrades to the millions of cars that are already out there. If you have any additional info, please let me know - dems0608@yahoo.com - JD
Honda had it right the first time! The 2000-2006 Insight, in ALUMINUM and weighing 1860 pounds, is still the highest-mileage mass-produced gasoline-powered car ever made. The 2010 Insight, in steel, is a step backward, technologically. This leaves a niche for a manufacturer who can offer a two passenger vehicle that gets 60 or more mpg.
RH
I thought the original Honda Insight was very cool, but do you really think there is a strong market for a two seat vehicle? I guess if you could price it right to make it a commuter car.
Still, if you could add 1 extra - even crappy - seat in the back, i think it would be much more functional since the average family has 2 kids. It still wouldn't be a family car, but your commuter vehicle could still pick up the kids in an emergency.
Post a Comment
<< Home