Toyota hybrid sales CRUSH competition

The future looks bright

In the world of hybrid cars, there is Toyota and everybody else when it comes to sales. So, how can I spin this story for 2009 sales?

Well, Ford almost passed Honda as the number 2 seller of hybrid cars. Ford, thanks to the Fusion hybrid, sold 33,502 total hybrids in 2009.

Nonetheless, that wasn't enough to catch Honda. Despite seriously declining Civic hybrid sales, the Insight was able to help Honda sell 35,691 units.

But that's just chump change compared to Toyota.

Toyota sold 195,545 hybrids in the US in 2009, largely led by 139,682 Prius hybrid sales. Still, even without the Prius, Toyota still sold significantly more hybrids than did either Ford or Honda.

Civic hybrid MPG suit still not fully settled

What's the real mileage?

In 2007 a class action lawsuit was brought against Honda for a number of advertisements and commercials that inflated the real world mileage of the Civic hybrid.

Consequently, owners of Civic hybrids from 2003 - 2008 will receive a DVD for improving fuel economy, $100 cash or a $1000 rebate on their next Honda.

26 states, however, have objected to this settlement, largely because the rebate does not apply to new Civic hybrids, the Insight hybrid, Fit or CRZ. Plus, a number of state attorney generals have objected to the fact that the attorneys filing this class action lawsuit are set to receive almost $3 million in legal fees.

Honda Civic hybrid: Safest hybrid vehicle

Safe and fuel efficient

With Toyota scoring a big goose egg on the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's Top Safety Picks, hybrid cars were destined to rank poorly.

Still, the Honda Civic hybrid, along with all Civics, except the SI, with stability control - now standard in the Civic hybrid - ranked as Top Picks in the small car category.

Is Honda hybrid quality slipping?

Your IMA light won't shut off?

Recently, Hybridcarblog has a received a number of complaints regarding the Honda Civic hybrid.

Now, overall, most that have provided a Civic hybrid testimonial have been happy with their Honda hybrid. Nonetheless, IMA issues continue to be a problem for some Civic hybrid owners.

Coupled with the Consumer Reports slam of the Insight hybrid, I cannot help but wonder, is Honda hybrid quality slipping?

20 percent hybrid by 2020?

Ford better get ready to increase its hybrid production

In just a few years, shoppers of Honda hybrid cars will face a tough decision.

Should they buy the cheapest and smallest Honda hybrid, the Fit or the larger Honda Insight? Or, for those not interested in hatchbacks and desiring a little more passenger space, the Civic hybrid might be better . Then again, maybe some Honda hybrid consumers won't care about size, but instead prefer something sporty like the CR-Z sports hybrid.

So, why is Honda going hybrid crazy? Well, perhaps they've seen JP Morgan's latest hybrid prediction. By 2020, according to JP, hybrid sales in the US will reach 19.4 percent of the new car market.

Shoot. If gas prices pull another 2008 in the next few years, I'd say that JP is underestimating the hybrid market. In fact, the way that Honda is ramping up its hybrid efforts, I wouldn't be surprised if Honda was hybrid-only by 2020.

Now, US automakers, that's a whole other story.

Trading in a hybrid dud: What do dealers owe early adopters?

Is your IMA light on again?

While hybrid vehicles have been around for a decade, they are still an emerging technology, especially for every automaker other than Toyota. Thus, some early adopters of hybrid technology have to deal with new problems. For example, excessive tire wear is a common problem with many Toyota hybrids.

According to Honda Civic hybrid testimonials, many first generation Civic hybrid owners have experienced problem-free vehicles. Unfortunately, others have experienced SRS lights that never shut off, for instance. Fortunately, that's more of an annoyance than a real problem. Still, many other 2003 Civic hybrid owners have had bigger issues with their IMA lights, often leading to a complete replacement of the costly IMA system.

Fortunately, for most, these issues have been covered by warranties, but owners have found it very difficult to sell these first generation Honda hybrid vehicles. If traded in on new Hondas, especially new Honda hybrids, shouldn't Honda dealers offer these Honda hybrid early adopters special trade in deals? Doesn't Honda owe that to early adopting Honda hybrid advocates?

Insight markups and Honda hybrid shopping

Is screwing the customer Insightful?

Last week some Honda hybrid shoppers found deals that couldn't be refused on Civic hybrids, while shopping for Insight hybrids. For instance Civic hybrids $2,000 less than the best deal on an Insight hybrid.

However, part of the reason some found good deals on the Civic hybrid was because of dealer markups on the Honda Insight. At one Honda dealership markups were as high as $4500.

This weekend, I stopped by my local Honda dealer and found no dealer markups above MSRP, however, aftermarket leather packages were being added to the cost, pushing the MSRP of an Insight hybrid up an additional $2,000, a price that seemed a little high for aftermarket leather.

Nonetheless, the Insight was still a better deal than the Civic hybrid, although my dealer told me he could offer some pretty great deals on Civic hybrid leases. Obviously, shopping for a Honda hybrid varies from dealer to dealer.

In the next few weeks I'll be doing some more Honda hybrid shopping to see how much variance there is between dealers in terms of hybrid deals, with a particular focus on dealer add-ons and markups.

Great time to buy a Honda Civic hybrid?

Some interesting deals for hybrid buyers

The other day Smurf, a fellow blogger, went out to buy a Honda Insight hybrid. However, since his local Honda dealer had few Insight hybrids and many Civic hybrids, his salesman made him an offer he couldn't refuse - a Civic hybrid discounted $2000 less than the best deal for an Insight hybrid.

These are great days for the buyers of hybrid cars, as new hybrids come to market in one of the worst auto sales markets ever. Expect these deals to become even more interesting once the 2010 Toyota Prius comes to market.

However, shopping around will make a lot of sense. I've already heard of $4500 dealer markups on the Insight hybrid. So watch out.

Honda reports first week of Insight hybrid sales

569 units sold in first week

If you checked out your local Honda dealer last week hoping to purchase an Insight hybrid, you might have been disappointed. While Honda did begin delivery of the Insight, availability was limited. Nonetheless, Honda did record the sale of 569 Insights last week.

Interestingly, Honda Civic hybrid sales were down 20.8% in March compared to last year - a significant decline, but not as significant as most other Honda models.

LA Times slams hybrid car sales

Insight will lift hybrid sales

Hybrid car sales go from 60 to 0 at breakneck speed, writes the LATimes this morning.

Hmmm. Buy a Civic hybrid today, or wait a couple of months for a cheaper, cooler Honda Insight hybrid? Or, buy a Toyota Prius today, or wait until a bigger, faster, more fuel efficient Prius becomes available in a couple of months while waiting out a recession?

Certainly, hybrid sales have dropped significantly since this summer, but summer sales were driven by the irrational exuberance created by relatively sudden $4.00 gas. With gas prices cut in half, and consumers facing a recession, one would expect a burst of the hybrid bubble. Nonetheless, gas prices will go back up in the next few years. Thinking otherwise is foolish.

In fact, this morning President Obama called such thinking "irresponsible" while addressing the dangers of foreign oil dependency. And, truthfully, if Americans paid the real cost of oil dependency at the pump, the cost of gas would already be very supportive of significantly higher hybrid sales.

Still, sales of hybrid vehicles will pick up in the next few months, as the two most important cars in the hybrid market come to market. Compare those sales to when gas was $3.00 and I think a far different picture of hybrid sales will emerge.

4 Hybrids in CR's Best Values

Toyota is value

This year's Consumer Reports Best New Car Values includes a ton of Toyota autos, including 3 of its hybrids vehicles. The Prius, Camry hybrid and Highlander hybrid each made the list.

One other hybrid, the Honda Civic hybrid, also made the list.

67 mpg Honda Fit hybrid ready in 2010?

Even cheaper than the Insight hybrid?

While US automakers are struggling just to survive to President-Elect Obama's inauguration, Honda is ramping up plans to put many more hybrid vehicles on the road soon. The Honda Insight is just around the corner and the Honda Fit hybrid should be available in 2010.

Reports coming out of Britain are claiming the new Honda hybrid will achieve at least 67 mpg, which is what the report claims the new Honda Insight will achieve.

This is nonsense. Already Honda has stated that the new Insight will not be as fuel efficient as the original Insight, which did achieve close to 67 mpg with the manual version but not the automatic. Of course, the new Insight is a good bit larger. Likewise, since then, the EPA has tightened its testing and the Insight would not be rated as high.

While Honda has indicated that improvements have been made on its hybrid powertrain, especially with regards to weight, the new Insight hybrid will still use a powertrain very similar to the Civic hybrid, which is rated 40 mpg city/ 45 mpg highway.

Diesel v hybrids at an EPA glance

The EPA's top pick for 2009

I've been ill the last several days, so when I saw the EPA's Top 10 Most Fuel Efficient Vehicles List last week, I just wasn't very surprised or excited. Hybrids still dominate, especially in the city. Since, however, I've read a few articles noting the significance of the first diesel making the list.

A manual VW Jetta TDI is rated 30 mpg in the city, 41 on the highway. The Toyota Prius is 48 and 45, respectively.

Many diesel fans regularly chide the whole hybrid cars segment as a fad, but when it comes to city driving it's clear, hybrids are easily superior.

In order the list goes: Toyota Prius, Honda Civic Hybrid, Nissan Altima hybrid, Ford Escape hybrid (and Mercury Mariner hybrid, Mazda Tribute hybrid), Smart ForTwo, Toyota Camry hybrid, VW Jetta Diesel Manual, VW Jetta Diesel Automatic, Toyota Yaris Manual, and the Toyota Yaris Automatic.

Honda Insight in Paris: Cheaper, not better than the Prius?

Not as efficient as the Prius in the city?

The new Honda Insight hybrid will be the first real challenge to the Toyota Prius. But is it really a Prius fighter?

While the Insight IMA hybrid powertrain coupled with its 1.3 liter engine will be a bit smaller and lighter than the powertrain in the Honda Civic hybrid, it will still offer very similar fuel economy to the Civic hybrid. Thus, while the Insight might equal the Prius on the highway, the Prius will far out-perform the Insight in city fuel economy.

Of course, the Insight will be cheaper than the Civic hybrid and the Prius, making up for some of this city efficiency, but it will also be smaller than both hybrid vehicles. How much is extra space worth?

Insight versus the Prius? The choice is yours, and choice is what really matters.

Do hybrid tax credits still make sense?

Tax credits have helped Altima hybrid sales

The Toyota Prius has not qualified for a tax credit in some time, yet demand far outweighs supply. The demand supply ratio is so out of whack that dealers are adding as much as $5,000 to the MSRP, in addition to thousands worth of dealer add-ons - and they are still selling.

Many other hybrid cars, such as the Honda Civic hybrid and the Toyota Camry hybrid, are selling as fast as they can be produced - also with dealer markups. While a few hundred thousand new hybrids will be added to the hybrid supply starting some time in 2009, if gas prices remain high, these hybrids will probably not just sell easily, but many will sell with dealer markups.

So, are hybrid tax credits still necessary? For what, to help justify dealer markups?

Hybridcarblog has been an advocate of hybrid tax credits for years, but isn't new thinking required? For example, perhaps the focus should be on plug-in conversions, EVs, or vehicles that achieve at least 80 mpg. Of course, it's hard arguing against hybrid tax credits when, unbelievably, gas guzzlers STILL qualify for small business tax incentives.

Nonetheless, should Congress create new hybrid tax incentives and, if so, what should be the focus?

Most cost-effective gas savers according to Intellichoice

The most cost effective mid-sized gas saver

According to Edmunds, most hybrid vehicles are not good buys because they cost more. Accordingly, a Honda Fit without air conditioning or cruise control and little more than a cheap AM/FM radio is a better deal than the Toyota Prius, simply because the Prius costs more. I won't even get into keyless entry, etc, for example, because such features have even far less value to Edmunds.

However, others, such as Consumer Reports, have perpetually picked the Prius as one of the most cost-effective vehicles to own. And it isn't just CR.

Finish: Most cost effective gas savers

750,000 miles in a hybrid - How far have you gone?

Is it possible?

I was reading the latest Honda Civic hybrid testimonials, and I was surprised to read about a Civic hybrid with 750,000 miles. Owner, Skip, states "That is not a misprint. I have never gotten less than 40 mpg with the a/c on at 70 mph. I love this car."

Now, we have no reason to doubt Skip, but we're sure many will, and we are trying to verify this information.

Anyway, there are many older hybrid cars with well over 100,000 miles, even 200,000 miles. Anyone else out there with some crazy hybrid mileage?

Honda's new hybrid not as cheap as expected

Cheaper than the Civic hybrid

There has been a lot of sketchy information coming out of Honda when it comes to their new dedicated hybrid-only vehicle. And, new statements from the AP are no less clear, particularly when it comes to cost.

In a speech at the Center for Automotive Research Management Briefing Seminars Richard Colliver, executive vice president of American Honda Motor Co. confirmed everything we already know: Honda will launch the new 5-door, 5 passenger hybrid next Spring. Yet, in terms of costs, Colliver would only go so far as to say that it will be cheaper than the Honda Civic hybrid($22,600).

That seems a lot less confident than some of the $19,000 predictions of a few months ago. I'm betting no less than $19,999.

Has an oil change killed your hybrid's fuel economy?

Is the right oil essential?

Recently, a Honda Civic hybrid owner offered an interesting Civic hybrid testimonial. Currently, this owner has 50k miles on his 2005 Civic hybrid and he had this to say about a recent trip to the dealer.

"Watch the OIL type. they're supposed to have 0-20w oil. dealer changed our oil at 46k, wife drove it home and was appalled to see the meter showing 29 miles per gallon. way less than normal. we called the dealer back...they tried to put the blame on my new tires, but that wasn't the case as i already had 3k on them, with standard mileage we'd come to expect. today, we got the oil changed at dealer again...wife drove home and meter showed 40 miles per gallon. same car, same woman, same distance/route. three months ago after the last change: 29mpg. this time: 40mpg."

Any similar experiences?

After more than 100,000 miles, hybrids keep saving fuel

Hybrid reliability keeps cruising

I was just reviewing the latest Toyota Prius testimonial about a 130,000 mile Prius that is still averaging about 50 miles per gallon on the highway - a pretty common story for older Prii. And it isn't just the Prius, the Honda Civic hybrid has been just as reliable. In fact, some hybrid owners have put more than 200,000 miles on their hybrid vehicles, yet they've had to do little more than change some oil and replace their tires. Hybrid batteries - the big fear - have remained very reliable, especially since the 2nd generation Prius was launched.

Some believe that once automakers start producing millions of hybrids, more problems are inevitable, but thus far, the reliability of hybrid cars has been quite stellar, especially on those hybrids that have been around the longest.

For more hybrid reviews, or to add your own hybrid testimonial, go to hybrid vehicle testimonials and reviews.

A new Prius or Civic hybrid for 2009? Better get on the list now

Gonna have to wait 3 to 4 months?

Cars.com called around the country yesterday trying to find out where a Toyota Prius or a Honda Civic hybrid can be found on a dealer lot. Waiting lists were the only thing they could find. While the average waiting list for a Civic hybrid was 3 to 4 months, the Prius was 4 to 6 months.

If you're shopping hybrid cars, it might just make more sense to tune up your current vehicle in the short term until supplies of hybrids can better meet demand.

Underestimated: Honda's upcoming hybrids?

A very insightful hybrid

When it comes to hybrid cars, Toyota is king, but Honda has been in the hybrid game about as long as Toyota. However, Honda has never been as bullish as Toyota regarding hybrids. I've always figured that Toyota has taken a more aggressive approach to hybrids because the Hybrid Synergy Drive isn't just powering Toyota's hybrid vehicles, but also Toyota's fuel cell vehicles. That isn't the case for Honda's hybrids.

Today, however, Honda is singing a very different hybrid tune, and the automaker is now preparing to fully take on Toyota and, particularly, the Toyota Prius.

In the past I've preferred Toyota's hybrid vehicles over Honda's because I live in LA and congestion is my only driving condition. In such conditions, a Prius is simply more fuel efficient than the Civic hybrid. Nonetheless, I've always been a big fan of the Civic hybrid.

Thus, I'm incredibly excited about Honda's upcoming hybrid vehicles, set to launch next year. While the Chevy Volt is always the hot topic in Prius-fighting circles, I think Honda's new hybrids are being completely underestimated. The Volt will electrify, but cheap, cost-effective hybrids offer far more potential in the short term, and Honda, I bet, is primed to give Toyota a run for the hybrid money.

Prius, Escape hybrid rule city fuel economy

Escape hybrid outperforms the Civic hybrid

When I tell people that a Toyota Prius can achieve as much as 60 mpg in LA driving, many don't believe me. Yet, a recent city driving test by Cars.com has proven my - in some minds - wild claims.

In several tests of real world Chicago traffic, the Toyota Prius achieved fuel economy ranging from 50.5 mpg to 60.8 mpg, averaging 55.7 mpg according to observed tests and 59.1 mpg according to the Prius computer.

Surprisingly, the Ford Escape hybrid outperformed the Honda Civic hybrid in the same traffic, achieving 38.3 mpg versus the 37.6 mpg of the Civic hybrid.

Cars.com only tested four hybrid cars. The other hybrid tested, the Chevy Tahoe hybrid, achieved 20.5 mpg.

Camry hybrid: Best hybrid for the money?

Payback in just 18 months?

According to Edmunds, the Toyota Camry hybrid recovers its costs compared to the the base 4 cylinder Camry in just 18 months. The Chevy Malibu hybrid was second at 2.7 years, although it won't save as much money over the long run as other hybrids. Thus, the Toyota Prius at 3.5 years will save more money than the Malibu hybrid if you keep the vehicle for at least 5 years. The Honda Civic hybrid takes 4.8 years to recover its hybrid costs.

Because of large price increases in the last year, the Ford Escape hybrid, now priced more than $2,300 more than last year, and the Toyota Highlander hybrid, now up $5,482 over last year, take 7.3 years and 12 years respectively to recover their hybrid costs. Ouch!

Obviously, some hybrid vehicles are a great hedge against high gas prices, but the Toyota Camry hybrid is beginning to look like a steal.

China could be key to hybrid revolution, but...

Only $38,000 in China

We've all heard it before. The future of the automarket will be determined by Asia, especially China and India. Unfortunately, even as the automarket begins to emerge, China is already the world's largest polluter, and if the Chinese start embracing the automobile as do Americans, that pollution will increase exponentially - as will Chinese foreign oil dependency.

Thus, automakers are showing off their hybrid cars at this year's Beijing Auto Show. According to the WSJ, GM CEO Rick Wagoner believes that China could be the key to effective economies of scale for hybrid vehicles.

Still, the Chinese government will play a big role. Hybrids, such as the Toyota Prius and the Honda Civic hybrid, are being sold in China, but at almost twice the cost as in America, largely because of government duties.

Without government intervention, gas-guzzler sales will boom in China, as hybrid sales falter. That can't be good for either China or the world.

Clean your neighborhood, win a Civic hybrid

Help Clean Up America

Honda is again sponsoring the Road to a Cleaner America, a volunteer program to "clean and beautify the streets, roads, and highways that we travel every day". Organizations that "go the extra mile" participating in this effort can win a number of $4000.00 grants, or even a brand new 2008 Honda Civic hybrid.

Click here for more information.

Hybrid vehicles: Can Honda slay the Prius?

Honda won't be the only automaker with a big hybrid announcement in 2009

"Prius-killer". That's what some over at Honda have been calling the automaker's latest hybrid primed for launch next year - a unique, hybrid-only model with Honda Clarity design cues, better-than-Civic hybrid fuel economy, yet cheaper than a Civic hybrid.

Still, Honda isn't the only automaker with a big hybrid announcement planned for '09.

Toyota will be launching the Third Generation Hybrid Synergy Drive in hybrid cars like the Toyota Prius some time next year, in addition to debuting a few new production-ready hybrid-only vehicles at NAIAS 2009. In fact, one of those new hybrid debuts might just be smaller and cheaper than the current Prius (Toyota's new Honda hybrid-killer?).

So, can the latest Honda hybrid do what no other hybrid has come close to achieving - slaying the mighty Toyota Prius? Probably not, but who really cares? More selection, cheaper and better hybrids - isn't that what consumers really care about anyway?

Toyota Prius CR's Top Green Pick Again

The best green car

Consumer Reports has picked the Toyota Prius as its Top Green Car for 2008. Any Top Pick is determined by road tests, safety and reliability.

In terms of the Best Fuel Economy for the Buck, the Prius is was 3rd overall, the Prius Touring Edition was 5, and the Honda Civic hybrid was 7.

Prius still the greenest hybrid

Prius is the greenest conventional fueled car

According to the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy, the Toyota Prius is the 2nd Greenest mass-produced car in America, just behind the natural gas powered Honda Civic. And for all you Boston Legal fans out there, that rating includes battery consideration so a Hummer really isn't cleaner than the Prius.

Other hybrid vehicles included in the Top 10 were the Honda Civic hybrid at 3, the Nissan Altima hybrid at 6, and the Toyota Camry hybrid at 10.

What's wrong with the Civic hybrid?

Fuel economy interest up to start 2008, but Civic hybrid sales down?

I received an interesting e-mail from blogger, Mike, regarding some data that he put together regarding the sales of fuel efficient vehicles (more). While sales of the EPA's most fuel efficient vehicles were up about 15 percent in January of 2008, Honda Civic hybrid sales were down 2 percent.

All other hybrid vehicles are seeing huge increases in hybrid sales, except the Nissan Altima hybrid, which was flat. What gives I wonder?

The Honda Civic Hybrid is "fun"

A "fun to drive" vehicle?

The DetroitNews ran an article reviewing the Honda Civic hybrid this weekend that called the Civic hybrid, " a lot of fun to drive" without really talking about what was so fun.

Was it funner than a regular Civic? Was it funner than a Toyota Prius, or a Camry hybrid? Was it the way it handled?

No. It was "fun" to watch the fuel economy gauge.

Anyway, for some real world Civic hybrid experiences, especially regarding fuel economy, check out our Honda Civic Hybrid Testimonials.

What would it take for a Honda hybrid to challenge the Prius?

The 2009 Toyota Prius?

In 2009 Honda is going to launch a new hybrid vehicle, one that Honda hopes will sell 200,000 units. That's a huge improvement compared to Honda's top selling hybrid, the Honda Civic hybrid. Additionally, it would make the new Honda hybrid as popular as the Toyota Prius.

So, how might Honda accomplish such a monumental task? Read more....

The Toyota Prius: The truth about hybrid cars

It's not just a niche vehicle for environmentalists

I just finished reading Karl On Cars' take on the Toyota Prius, and how the Prius outsold entire brands like, Acura, Audi, Buick, Infiniti, Lincoln, Mercury, Mitsubishi, Saturn, Scion, Subaru, Suzuki and Volvo. Not bad for a niche vehicle.

So, why aren't other hybrid cars selling as well?

Because there really isn't any competition. That's the plain and simple truth. Finish....

Buy your Honda hybrid before 2008!

Full tax credit available only through 2007

If you've been shopping hybrid cars, one of your main criterion might be available tax credits. Already tax credits for Toyota hybrid vehicles, such as the Prius and the Camry hybrid, are fully expired.

Starting in 2008, the hybrid tax credit for Honda hybrids will be cut in half. After July 1 the tax credit will again be cut in half. So, if you've been considering a Honda Civic hybrid, it might be time to pull the trigger.

Honda CR-Z hybrid will become reality

Coming in 2009?

Honda has announced that its lightweight hybrid sports car, the CR-Z, is going into production.

The concept CR-Z hybrid is coupled with Honda's current hybrid technology, and is now set to launch when Honda begins selling its new family hybrid - a hybrid only vehicle - in 2009.

While Honda has stated that the new hybrid coupe concept utilizes the same hybrid powertrain found in the Civic hybrid, it isn't clear whether Honda's hybrid powertrain will be updated for the launch of these new hybrid cars. My hunch, however, is that an upgrade is forthcoming.

Since Honda wants to start selling at least a quarter million hybrid vehicles by 2009, a few changes to Honda's hybrid technology seem necessary.

Prius, Civic hybrid: Best Cars for commuters

Most fuel efficient cars for commuters

According to Forbes Magazine both the Toyota Prius and the Honda Civic hybrid are excellent choices for commuters, especially those focused on fuel economy.

"The Toyota is especially well-packaged, with a rear seat that delivers more legroom than many big SUVs. The Prius ranks among the nation's most reliable cars, and it's more affordable for 2008," states Forbes.

On the other hand, "The hybrid version of Honda's popular compact sedan features precise steering, a spacious interior and a raft of safety features, including curtain airbags, active anti-whiplash headrests and a body structure designed to minimize pedestrian injuries."

Top Safest Fuel Saving Cars

Tahoe and 5 other hybrids lead the pack

So, you want to save money on gas, but you also want to feel safe - it is your family, right? What could be more important?

No problem. CNNMoney has come up with 6 vehicles that save gas by providing great fuel economy while providing best in class safety, and 5 of those vehicles are hybrid vehicles.

The Saturn Aura hybrid, Honda Civic hybrid, Nissan Altima hybrid, Toyota Camry hybrid and the Chevy Tahoe hybrid and the Ford Taurus all provide great fuel economy for their class, while also providing excellent safety.

India: What does the high cost of hybrids mean?

Will cost twice as much in India as in Japan?

When it comes to both foreign oil dependency and global warming, India and China are becoming key players. With huge populations quickly becoming interested in automobiles, oil shortages and carbon emissions are on the precipice of astronomical increases.

So, just sell them hybrid cars, right?

That's what Honda is going to do with its Civic hybrid in India, for example. Unfortunately, because of Indian tariffs on imports, a Honda Civic hybrid will cost twice as much in India as in Japan.

In a country where many automakers are racing to the $3,000 car, how can $43,000 hybrid vehicles be expected to compete in the mind's of the masses?

When it comes to the dangers of foreign oil dependency and the amount of CO2 emissions in the world today - 'you ain't seen nothing yet'!

Prius and Civic: Best hybrid deals

Worth the money

Saving money isn't always the reason people purchase hybrid cars. Of course, saving money is always nice.

According to Kiplinger Magazine - and many other resources - the Honda Civic hybrid and the Toyota Prius hybrid continue to be the best hybrid vehicle bargains.

The Toyota Camry hybrid, Nissan Altima hybrid and Saturn Vue hybrid make up the next level of hybrids, while hybrid SUVs, according to Kiplinger, provide the least savings.

Can Honda build a Prius-contender?

One possible new hybrid from Honda

Honda is the undisputed greenest major automaker, yet when one thinks of green automobiles, hybrid cars automatically come to mind.

When it comes to hybrids, Honda is far behind Toyota. How did that happen?

For starters, the first generation Honda Civic hybrid, for example, was almost more of a mild hybrid than a full hybrid. Even today's Civic hybrid doesn't offer as powerful of a hybrid powertrain as does the Toyota Prius. Quite simply, the Prius is the superior hybrid, especially for urban drivers.

That doesn't mean the Civic hybrid isn't a great car, it is. Finish: Can Honda build a Prius-contender?

Surprise, Surprise Prius is most researched and read about hybrid

Prius dominates NADA research

The Toyota Prius is the most researched and most read about hybrid at NADAGuides.com.

Wow. Isn't that a big surprise?

About the only interesting fact is that the Honda Civic hybrid and the Nissan Altima hybrid are more researched than the Toyota Camry hybrid, but more people read reviews of the Camry hybrid compared to either the Civic or Altima hybrids.

I guess when consumers consider hybrid cars, they research Civic and Altima hybrids for comparison before, ultimately, buying the Prius - in most cases. Not as many consumers, however, are researching the Altima or Civic hybrids as seriously as the Camry hybrid, it appears.

Again, that's not really surprising either. While the Prius is the undisputed king of hybrid sales, the Camry hybrid is also blowing away any competition. 60,000 Camry hybrid sales for its first full calendar year is pretty good for a car that offers barely any tax credit.

Honda sued by Civic hybrid owner

Not as fuel efficient as advertised?

The owner of a Honda Civic hybrid is suing Honda for misrepresenting the fuel efficiency of the Civic hybrid. While Honda uses the EPA's numbers, "The lawsuit claims American Honda Motor Co. has misled consumers in its advertisements and on its Web site. The suit notes that while the Environmental Protection Agency and automobile window stickers say "mileage will vary," some Honda advertisements read "mileage may vary." That implies that it's possible to get the mileage advertised, said William H. Anderson, a Washington, D.C.(more).

Honda maintains some owners do achieve the EPA's fuel economy numbers and that the way a driver drives is critical to performance.

Will this type of lawsuit hit other hybrid cars? Why not sue the EPA since it is common knowledge that almost every vehicle does not achieve EPA estimates?

Honda committed to a dedicated, cheaper than Prius, hybrid

Cheaper and smaller than the Civic hybrid

According to Insideline, Honda's Dan Bonawitz, vice president of corporate planning and logistics for American Honda Motor Co. Inc., has confirmed that Honda will produce a smaller, dedicated hybrid vehicle.

The new hybrid-only brand, according to Dan Bonawitz, will be both smaller and cheaper than the Civic hybrid, as well as the Toyota Prius hybrid. Still, even though the new Honda hybrid will be smaller than the Civic, it will still be a family car.

Well, it appears Honda gets the importance of unique hybrid vehicles. Will other automakers?

Where is my American-made hybrid?

Chevy's foreign oil dependency fighter?

Many SUV fans believe that hybrid SUVs are more important than hybrid cars. These SUV advocates argue that converting the most inefficient vehicles into hybrids results in the greatest fuel savings.

While I see the logic in this belief, I don't agree. Yes, hybrid SUVs are extremely important, but they are not more important than smaller hybrid cars.

For instance, if I'm single, and I want to have the greatest impact on foreign oil dependency, it is far better to buy a Toyota Prius or a Civic hybrid, rather than a Tahoe hybrid.

--> Finish: Where is my American-made hybrid?

BW: The problem with hybrids is diesel?

Death of the hybrid Accord a setback to hybrids?

"Of course, the setbacks don't suggest it's the end of the road for hybrids—it certainly isn't for hybrid pioneers like Toyota and Honda. But it's clear that the difficulties that automakers face in marketing their hybrid engines are still vast, despite the growing awareness of environmental issues."

Wow. I doubt very much Honda ever thought it would sell more than several thousand Accord hybrid vehicles per year. In fact, when the Accord hybrid was developed, Honda didn't believe that such vehicles would EVER replace conventional vehicles. While Honda stepped up their hybrid game with the new Civic hybrid, Honda still isn't nearly as committed to hybrids as Toyota.

In addition to setbacks, such as the Accord, the BW article also claims that clean diesel is set to challenge the future of hybrids.

Kelly: Prius is Fuel Efficient Champ

Surprise, surpise? Not!

Kelly Blue Book picked a number of hybrid cars for their 13 Great Fuel Efficient Cars according to CNNMoney.

Aside from the Toyota Prius, the overall champ, Kelly also picked the Nissan Altima hybrid, Honda Civic hybrid, Ford Escape hybrid, and the Toyota Highlander hybrid.

Are you a hypermiler?

Are you a fuel economy wizard?

Obviously, most drivers of hybrid vehicles are concerned with fuel economy. Many are even obsessed. Some, however, are consumed by achieving unbelievable hypermileage with their hybrids.

A Honda Insight achieving 75 mpg. A Toyota Prius in Japan achieving 112 mpg - without plug-in technology. A Civic hybrid achieving 60 mpg. All these examples are the work of hypermilers according to the AP - people whom coast, draft, and slightly over inflate their tires.

Are you a hypermiler? What kind of crazy fuel economy have you achieved with your hybrid?

2 new Honda hybrid vehicles by mid 2009

What Honda's next hybrid won't look like?

By mid-2009 Honda plans to begin selling its new economy hybrid, which will cost less than the Civic hybrid. Earlier reports indicated the vehicle might be a hybrid version of the Honda Fit, but now it appears the vehicle might be more like Honda's Remix concept.

In addition, Honda is also planning a sports coupe, but it will not look like the one pictured above - previewed at the Geneva Auto show. Instead, the new hybrid coupe is also supposed to be influenced by the Remix.

Perhaps, much like Toyota's plans for the Prius, will Honda make multiple derivatives of the same basic hybrid - two derivatives of a new, unique hybrid? Regardless, Honda is planning to produce 200,000 of these new hybrid cars - a significant uptick in Honda's hybrid vehicle production.

(Source: AutoBlog)

Hybrids, fuel economy dominate Intellichoice picks

Fuel efficiency scores

Intellichoice.com announced its Best Deals of the Month yesterday, and hybrid cars were very strong performers.

"A look at the list and it's not hard to see that fuel economy is a major factor for May's winners," said James Bell, publisher of IntelliChoice.com. "The Toyota Prius, Ford Escape Hybrid and Toyota Highlander Hybrid are perennial winners, and the Lexus RX 400h displaces the RX 350 on this month's list on the basis of fuel cost.

In addition, the Honda Civic hybrid also made the list.

Natural gas better than hybrids?

Honda natural gas Civic next to Phill

USA Today is wondering why people don't care about natural gas vehicles. It's cheaper than gasoline. Natural gas vehicles are clean. Why so much attention on hybrid vehicles rather than natural gas?

"Gasoline-electric hybrids have received attention because they are touted by Japanese automaking giant Toyota. They are being introduced haltingly by other automakers because their high-tech battery packs and dual gas-electric power plants make them costlier and less profitable to produce."

The article then claims there is a 60 year supply of natural gas. Hmmm. You mean at current consumption levels, right? If America started guzzling natural gas the way we guzzle gasoline, those reserves would dry up quite quickly, right?

More important, why is America moving to imported liquid natural gas if domestic natural gas is so plentiful? Ultimately, if America significantly increases natural gas use, it will be imported natural gas - much of which comes from countries that also hate the U.S. Is that really a significant improvement?

Fuel diversity is a good idea and natural gas is worth exploring, but it does only offer limited help. More important, comparing fuels to fuel efficiency-increasing technology, such as hybrid cars, is a very poor comparison.

Only 3 hybrids on 'pump-buster' list

The Honda Civic Natural Gas Vehicle is the top 'pump-buster'

Only 3 hybrid vehicles qualified as top 'pump-busters' by vehicle category according to Forbes Magazine - a point that Forbes appears to relish. Of course, there simply aren't any hybrids that fit into most of the vehicle categories chosen by Forbes, but who cares about those kinds of details?

Still, the Honda Civic hybrid, the Toyota Prius hybrid and the Ford Escape hybrid each qualified as the top 'pump-busters' in their respective categories.

Intellichoice - New EPA ratings shouldn't deter hybrid buyers

Hybrids still on Best of 2007 List

Sure, hybrid vehicles are less fuel efficient than the old EPA ratings, but so are most conventional vehicles. As a result, Intellichoice.com claims that the new EPA fuel economy ratings should not be used to reduce the appeal of hybrid vehicles.

“The EPA’s new gas mileage ratings update a 24-year-old model for measuring fuel economy and have been anticipated for some time,” said James Bell, publisher of IntelliChoice.com. “We strongly support the new ratings, which will help consumers by estimating miles-per-gallon based on real-world driving conditions. The bottom line is that hybrids still provide the highest fuel economy when measured against respective vehicles in their class. According to the EPA, on average, there will be a 10 percent decrease on most vehicles.”

Both the Toyota Prius and the Ford Escape hybrid were picked by Intellichoice as Best of 2007 for new cars under $23,000 and SUVs under $28,000 respectively. The Toyota Highlander hybrid and the Civic hybrid also scored well.

The Honda Civic hybrid recalled

More than 45,000 Honda Civic hybrids are being recalled to fix a voltage converter defect. If the problem is not fixed, the voltage converter could cause a short circuit that might stop the engine and prevent the engine from being restarted. According to Honda, there have not been any reported accidents or injuries due to the defect. Civic hybrid owners will be contacted by mail regarding this problem so that their vehicles can be repaired.

The 4 greenest hybrid vehicles

The Big 3 American automakers were not able to crack the top 12 most environmentally friendly vehicles list this year according to the LATimes. Instead, Asian automakers held all 12 spots. The top four greenest vehicles were the Honda Civic GX, the Toyota Prius, the Honda Civic hybrid, and the Nissan Altima hybrid.

The Toyota Camry hybrid came in seventh place, rounding out the top 4 greenest hybrid vehicles.

Honda to fight "Prius effect" in Super Bowl Ad

A natural gas Civic next to Phill at NAIAS

Honda will use the Super Bowl to promote the fuel economy of its vehicles according to Reuters. "Honda's U.S. sales unit said on Tuesday that it would air three Super Bowl ads, two 15-second spots for its Element SUV and a 30-second spot showing its full line of cars driving past unneeded gas pumps -- a bid to emphasize their fuel economy."

Yes, Honda is the most fuel efficient automaker. Yes, the Toyota Prius has given Toyota an amazing amount of green credentials as it also produces vehicles to challenge market leaders in the most fuel inefficient market segments. Yet, Toyota has been a technology leader, while Honda has continued to play it safe and conventional.

Ultimately, Honda's fuel efficiency isn't enough to end foreign oil dependency, next generation hybrid technology; however, could achieve that end. If Honda is seeking a "Prius effect" than its time for Honda to kick it up a notch.

Overall hybrid sales - about the same as always

AutoWeek has posted a story about which hybrid vehicles are hot and which are not. Ultimately, the figures say about the same thing they save every month. The Toyota Prius accounts for about half of all hybrid sales. The Prius and the Honda Civic hybrid sell well regardless of gas prices, and the Honda Accord hybrid and the Mercury Mariner hybrid are the slowest sellers.

The most interesting thing about the story was a top ten list of why people buy hybrid cars. The list DOES not even include foreign oil dependency. How can that be?

Hybrid vehicles still offer excellent reliability - Consumer Reports

Hybrid vehicles are very reliable according to Consumer Reports survey research. The Honda Accord hybrid and the Toyota Prius hybrid are the number one and two most reliable family cars, and the Honda Civic hybrid took third place for most reliable small car. The Toyota Highlander hybrid and the Lexus RX400h took the first and fifth spots for most reliable midsized SUVs.

The only hybrid to suffer a bit this year compared to last year was the Ford Escape hybrid, which dropped from above average to just average.

(Source: CNNMoney)

Civic and Escape hybrid sales up big in October

Sales of the Honda Civic hybrid were up 890% in October compared to October 2005, reaching 2,288 units sold. The Ford Escape hybrid and the Mariner hybrid hit 1,602 units combined, up 30.6% compared to October 2005. The sales of all other hybrid vehicles were down in October 2006 compared to October 2005.

So what is the story? Why are sales of the Toyota Prius, for example, down while the Civic hybrid is up? Or why are sales of the Highlander hybrid down, while sales of the Escape hybrid are up?

Well, I'd bet it all comes down to tax incentives. October was the first month that tax incentives for Toyota hybrids were cut in half.

While Prius sales were down about 12%, Toyota still sold 8,733 of the hybrid vehicles - far more than Honda's Civic hybrid. Nonetheless, it will be interesting to see what happens over the next couple of months. If gas prices begin to again go up, I think Prius sales will be fine despite the lower tax incentive. If gas prices remain stable, this downward trend might continue.

(Source: Green Car Congress)

Prius and Civic hybrid most fuel efficient vehicles for 2007 according to government

The government has released its Top Ten Most Fuel Efficient Vehicles for 2007. According to the government's report, the Toyota Prius hybrid is the most fuel efficient vehicle for 2007, followed by the Honda Civic hybrid. The Toyota Camry hybrid was third.

A total of four hybrid vehicles were in the Top Ten. The two-wheel drive Ford Escape hybrid was the most fuel efficient SUV.

(EPA)

Hybrids only 9% more efficient than regular vehicles?

Are hybrid vehicles only 9% more fuel efficient than conventional vehicles? That's what J.D. Power claims, according to the Detroit News. While noting that interest in hybrids is growing, J.D. claims that hybrid buyers have unrealistic expectations in terms of performance.

While I agree that some buyers have unrealistic expectations, I have to question the 9% figure. Other studies have claimed the same, but those studies were done using track testing. For the majority of drivers, track testing is about as accurate for gauging real world fuel economy as are EPA estimates of hybrids.

Moreover, saying 'hybrids' are only 9% more efficient than conventional models is completely deceptive. For example, some hybrids were not produced to achieve the highest fuel efficiency possible. The Honda Accord hybrid, for example, is really a performance hybrid, though it achieves excellent fuel mileage for that performance. The same is largely true of both the Lexus RX400h and the Toyota Highlander hybrid, though these vehicles are - for their class - more fuel efficient than the Accord hybrid.

In terms of fuel efficiency, both the Ford Escape hybrid and the Toyota Prius hybrid, are the two hybrids most designed for fuel economy. While the Civic hybrid is a very fuel efficient vehicle as well, so to is the standard Civic. Additionally, the Civic hybrid doesn't offer as much electric assist as the hybrid Escape or Prius.

Consequently, comparing some hybrids is about as accurate as comparing apples to oranges. Thus, averaging their fuel economy is completely useless.

Even worse, if the Silverado hybrid was also included in the 'hybrid class' by J.D., then the results are completely skewed against hybrid fuel efficiency. The Silverado hybrid isn't even a mild hybrid in my book. In fact, its not even a hybrid in my book.

Consequently, the class of current hybrid vehicles are actually a very diverse group of vehicles. To average their fuel economy is misleading at best and, ultimately, deceptive. Studies by both Consumer Reports and Edmunds very much call into question the number, 9%.

Some hybrids are more fuel efficient than other hybrids. Some hybrids offer more power than other hybrids. Some hybrids perform better on highways compared to other hybrids, and some hybrids perform better in urban slow-and-go or stop-and-go traffic than other hybrids. Inevitably, hybrid fuel efficiency can ONLY be assessed vehicle by vehicle. Even then, two different drivers of the same hybrid can still achieve vastly different outcomes.

So, don't take this 9% very seriously. It might be true for some hybrids, but it certainly isn't true for all hybrids. If you want to read more about real world fuel economy from real world hybrid drivers, check out these hybrid testimonials.

Prius, Escape hybrid break even in 3 years

According to a study by Edmunds.com, many hybrid cars now pay for themselves over time. For example, both the Toyota Prius and the Ford Escape hybrid can pay for themselves in just 3 years when gas is $3.00 and you drive at least 15,000 miles per year. Additionally, the Saturn Vue, Camry hybrid and Civic hybrid will pay for themselves in 6 years.

Of course, good things never last. Because tax credits for hybrid cars are capped at 60,000 vehicles per manufacturer, the full tax credit for the Prius and other Toyota hybrids, will only be available until Sept. 30. After that time, Toyota hybrid buyers will only qualify for half the tax credit.

As for the other hybrid vehicles, you still have plenty of time.

The Best Hybrid Vehicle

So, you think the Toyota Prius is the best hybrid vehicle, or maybe you like the styling of the Honda Civic hybrid?

Maybe you only like SUVs and so you believe the Ford Escape hybrid is the best hybrid available?

Well, unfortunately, the best hybrid vehicle simply isn't being produced.

So, what would it take to create the best hybrid? In a word, a plug. (Finished in Comments)

London adding 117 new hybrids to police fleet

The London Metropolitan Police force will be adding 117 new Honda Civic hybrids to its fleet.

(Source: Just Auto)

The connection between the Prius and the Hummer

There is no connection between the Toyota Prius and the Hummer. Thus, when I saw the headline, Prius: As Obnoxious as a Hummer?, I almost ignored reading the article, but, inevitably, I couldn't resist, especially after I read the article, Prius Responsibility.

The author notes, "As a dyed-in-the-wool enthusiast, I find superficial excess repulsive in whatever form it takes. Yes, I think heavy-duty trucks and SUVs are a garish display of vehicular excess unless they're towing, hauling, or otherwise justifying their gluttonous existence. But it wasn't until the second-generation Toyota Prius became the darling of the Hollywood left and the Brie & Merlot quasi-literati crowd that similar feelings of disdain for this posterchild of parsimony began to well up inside me."

Wow! While I understand what the writer is saying, and while I also share some of his disdain, I also know many Prius drivers that vote Republican and drive a Prius because of National Security beliefs.

Sometimes generalizations and stereotypes are just that, generalizations and stereotypes.

Finally, the author concludes, "So at the end of the day, do I hate Priuses or their drivers? Not necessarily. Just drop the "Look at me! I'm saving the environment! Aren't I great?" attitude and that your car is superior when there are other models out there that are as fuel-efficient or better."

Here the author again makes an assumption that Prius buyers only buy the Prius because of 'looks'.

How ridiculous! First, Toyota designed the Prius in such a manner because of aerodynamics and that design leads to better fuel efficiency. It also leads to better cargo space. Second, when it comes to urban driving - stop-and-go driving - it is simply hard to compete with the Prius, even for the Honda Civic hybrid. So, what other vehicles out there do as well or better in urban driving conditions in terms of pollution and fuel efficiency - please? Third, the Prius has simply been road tested like no other hybrid and when buying an emerging technology, it isn't unusual for early adopters to stick with the most popular brand.

Sure there are some annoying Prius drivers out there, but there are a lot of cool Prius drivers out there as well. Let's not forget, critics constantly tell us that you can't save money buying hybrid cars, such as the Prius. Consequently, those Prius drivers have paid EXTRA money to try to make a better world, to try to fight pollution, to try to end foreign oil dependency.

That deserves at least a little respect.

Honda hybrid tax credits now official

The IRS has officially determined the tax credits for Honda hybrid cars. The 2006 Civic hybrid qualifies for a $2100.00 tax credit. The Accord hybrid actually qualifies for a better credit than originally estimated, if it offers updated control calibration. Thus, the new credit is $1300.00. For those without the calibration, the credit is $650.00. The Honda Insight qualifies for a $1,450 tax credit. More on tax credits for hybrid vehicles.

Newsweek's Green Gap: Hybrid Critics have become boring

I was just reading Newsweek's Green Gap which asks, "Hybrids might be hip, but are they saving consumers enough at the pump to compensate for their high sticker price?" Over and over auto writers have noted that the Honda Accord hybrid and the Toyota Highlander hybrid are not selling well because of their sticker price. So hybrid cars are dead, right? Well, not exactly, the Toyota Prius and the Toyota Camry hybrid are hot, the Honda Civic hybrid is also hot. Ultimately, hybrid sales keep going up, and the hybrid market is only just emerging, only just being understood. It seems today's media loves to talk about hybrids. Recently, I questioned whether there was a media bias against hybrids. When Toyota announced a recall that includes the Prius, but wasn't limited to hybrids, nor was it related to hybrid technology, yet most of the media focused only on the Prius, not the fact that the majority of the affected cars were NOT hybrids.

Surprise, surprise hybrids top city picks by Forbes

According to Forbes, the soon to be deceased Honda Insight hybrid and the Toyota Prius are the two top cars for city driving. The Honda Civic hybrid came in at number 6. Of course it isn't a surprise that hybrid cars would dominate the list of best city driving cars. If they didn't, that would have been a surprise.

More than a Honda Fit hybrid?

Sure the Honda Insight is dead, but it will result in a brighter future for hybrid vehicles. In the past, Honda has been unsure about the future of hybrids, but the announcement that Toyota is going to produce a new 4 door hybrid that is more fuel efficient than the Insight and cheaper than the Civic hybrid is great news for hybrid consumers. While the new car might be similar to the current Fit, I think that Honda has realized that they need more than a Fit hybrid to challenge the Toyota Prius. Thus, I expect Honda's new hybrid to be a unique vehicle - a move Ford and GM need to heed.

New Honda hybrid, bolder hybrid plans

Honda appears interested in challenging the success of the Toyota Prius hybrid car, and has announced a new, family hybrid that will be priced less than the Civic hybrid. Rumors have been running wild that the Fit will be converted into a hybrid utilizing the Insight hybrid powertrain, but Honda did not name the vehicle. Even more interesting, is the expectation that Honda believes the vehicle can achieve U.S. sales of more than 100,000. In the past Honda has been much more bearish regarding hybrid vehicles than Toyota, but such a move seems to indicate that Honda is afraid to give Toyota too big a lead in hybrid production.

Used hybrids fetching a premium

Used hybrid cars, particularly the Toyota Prius, are losing little value - even after a year or two - according to recent data. The Honda Civic hybrid is also doing well in used sales. Since some hybrids, especially the Prius, are so hard to find, buying a used one can offer a better selection of colors and other amenities which could be putting a premium on used hybrids. Thus, if you were hoping to find a bargain on a slightly used Prius, you probably won't have much luck until gas prices drop significantly.

GM and Ford Claim Hybrid Car Pool Lane Discrimination

Sometimes I think it is best just to keep quiet. This is one of those situations for Ford and GM. "Ford Motor Co. and General Motors Corp., seeking to boost sales, want the federal government to force New York and California to let solo drivers of their hybrid vehicles join those of Honda and Toyota cars in highway carpool lanes." (JSONLINE)

While I like the Ford Escape hybrid, it doesn't achieve the kind of mileage that the Honda Civic hybrid or the Toyota Prius hybrid achieves. More important, the Toyota Highlander hybrid also doesn't not qualify for HOV lane access in these states - so there is no discrimination. The point of New York and California HOV legislation was to promote the very best fuel efficiency.

Both of these American companies should be leading the fight against foreign oil dependency, instead they survive only by increasing America's dependency.

No Surprise: Hybrid Sales Surged in 2005

You've come a long way baby!

In 2005, sales of hybrid cars more than doubled, significantly led by the Toyota Prius (AP). Still, hybrids only account for around 1% of total U.S. auto sales. While gas prices make hybrid vehicles more appealing, the price of hybrids will still have to come down in order to make hybrids desirable to a significant percentage of American consumers. Inevitably, most potential hybrid buyers cannot help but notice the price of a standard Camry compared to a hybrid Camry or a standard Civic compared to a Civic hybrid. If it takes five years or more to recover this investment, you've already lost most Americans. Nonetheless, as the Prius clearly demonstrates, unique hybrids can be hot sellers.

Ford's Slow Hybrid Sales Surge 50% in April

Last week I read at least 4 articles talking about the slow sales of hybrid vehicles. MotorTrend, for example, carried the article Hybrid Sales Running On Empty.

Then, today, I read that Ford increased its sales of hybrid vehicles by 50% in April - some slump(Reuters).

While it is true that incentives played a role in the sales increase of the Ford Escape hybrid, I bet rising gas prices also didn't hurt. Still, the whole "hybrids losing momentum" sentiment was really annoying.

Sales of the Toyota Prius weren't slow, nor were the sales of the Honda Civic hybrid. These two vehicles account for the far majority of hybrid vehicle sales, yet because the Honda Accord hybrid isn't selling well - a performance hybrid - hybrid sales are slumping?

Hybrid cars are an emerging technology and not every hybrid is going to sell well - there will be winners and losers. Additionally, costs and the price of gas are extremely important. Still, with no end in sight for high gasoline prices, I expect a lot more slow sales from hybrid cars.

Nonetheless, I don't get it. Why does it seem so many want to see hybrids fail?

First small riceburners, then hybrid cars

Hybrids will prove America wrong, again

I remember my parents picking me up from grade school one afternoon in the late '70's. Across the street from school, my father noticed my teacher's new Honda Civic. He laughed and said, "Who would ever want to drive a small riceburner like that? Honda is a motorcycle company, not a car company."

Well, needless to say, the rest is history. Not only did Honda do well selling cars no one "would ever want to drive", but so too did Toyota and Nissan. Just a few decades later, these 'riceburners' have knocked the American auto industry against the ropes and a TKO is very possible.

My father was a Union machinist and back in the '70's buying such a vehicle, regardless of how reliable it was or much gas it saved, was simply un-American. And it wasn't just my father, but most of America that felt that way.

Many Americans still feel that way today, which is why I think so many Americans are SO against hybrid cars. If hybrids take over much the same way riceburners did, it might just spell doom for American automakers.

According a Detroit News poll, the majority of Detroit-area readers don't believe hybrid vehicles will be around long. (See the Poll)

I say, get your head out of the sand. Don't make the same mistake twice.

The days of cheap oil appear to be over, and there probably isn't a windfall tax that can do anything to change that. A windfall tax can't stop problems in Iran or Nigeria. A windfall tax can't stop a billion new drivers from China and India.

The world has changed. Fuel efficiency and pollution will be the key drivers of not just automotive technology, but of all technology. In fact, clean and green technology is not only possible, as the Toyota Prius hybrid car so beautifully demonstrates, but it is destined to improve greatly, while getting significantly cheaper.

$3.00 gas is only the beginning, the beginning of the hybrid car revolution. Flex fuel hybrids, diesel hybrids, gasoline hybrids, hydrogen hybrids, and fuel cell hybrids - hybrids are THE future.

Toyota Prius is one of the safest small cars

The Toyota Prius is one of the safest small cars, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, especially when it includes optional side airbags. The Honda Civic also is a top car, but the Civic hybrid wasn't specifically mentioned. (More From CNNMoney)

Reduced Accord hybrid sales are not the end of hybrid cars

One might think the end of hybrid cars is near. Carlos Ghosn, whose Nissan Company has no hybrid technology, and Honda make some bearish comments regarding hybrids, suddenly, hybrids are no longer hot.

"We've had to reevaluate our position [regarding the Accord hybrid]," Honda Executive Vice President Dick Colliver recently stated. "It's having a hard time in the market." (MSNBC)

Well, it isn't necessarily surprising that the Accord hybrid might see a production decrease. Nonetheless, Honda's other two hybrids, the Civic hybrid and the Insight are seeing very good sales. Moreover, Honda has never been as bullish regarding hybrids as Toyota and they are still not.

More important, the Toyota Prius is still attracting waiting lists and is blowing all the competition away. The Prius is a unique vehicle powered by excellent technology.

Let's face it, sticker shock is the most important factor in buying a vehicle. Even if all hybrids saved $2000 compared to their conventional cars after 5 years, but customers had to pay more upfront, the majority of buyers would still go for the most immediate savings.

As hybrid technology becomes cheaper and gas prices go higher, America's perception of hybrids will continue to improve. Today, however, if you want to sell a 100,000 hybrid vehicles, produce a unique hybrid.

Automakers misusing hybrid technology?

Many environmentalists are mad, mad that the word 'hybrid vehicle' is being misused by automakers, and they want the word hybrid vehicle to only describe fuel efficient vehicles. Therefore, only hybrid cars, such as the Toyota Prius or the Honda Civic hybrid, deserve the label 'hybrid car'.

"With the emergence of performance-oriented hybrids and ultra-mild hybrid systems, environmentalists now see the technology as one more example of how Big Auto has hoodwinked consumers into believing their products are as green as they can possibly get." (MSNBC)

While it's true that some hybrid technology, currently, offers very little improvement in fuel efficiency, where do you draw the line?

"We think that hybrid technology ought to be reserved for the environmental and consumer benefits [it] can deliver," says UCS's Jason Mark. "Every quasi-hybrid under the sun is being labeled as a hybrid for public relations benefits." Mark thinks that hybrid technology should be put to better uses than turning a 16-mpg vehicle into an 18-mpg vehicle. "The point is not to turn extreme gas-guzzlers into moderate gas guzzlers."

So, what should these 'hybrid' vehicles be called? Gas guzzling vehicles with hybrid technology?

Maybe.

Still, if more and more hybrid vehicles are produced, won't customers start to realize which hybrids offer the best fuel efficiency bang for the buck? More important, the government should offer better tax incentives for the most fuel efficient hybrids in each class.

The hybrid vehicle revolution is dead?

The Wall Street Journal reported that sales of some hybrid cars are slowing, according to Car and Driver. That magazine cited such evidence as interest free loans for the Ford Escape hybrid, as well as new financing deals for the Toyota Highlander hybrid, and cuts in production on both the Highlander hybrid and the Honda Accord hybrid.

Of course, the Toyota Prius hybrid car is burning off the lot, and the Honda Civic hybrid is also seeing strong sales.

So, what's the problem? Cost effectiveness.

Ultimately, I believe there two main types of hybrid consumers: those driven by the environment and foreign oil dependency and those driven by saving money on gas.

The Prius and the Civic hybrid fit the demands of both of these consumer segments. The rest of the hybrids don't fit the majority of consumers in either one of these segments very well.

Still, the best of hybrid technology is yet to come and even large hybrid SUVs will eventually see lower prices and higher fuel economy.

Hybrid vehicles are far from dead.

Accord hybrid versus the Camry hybrid

Hybrid Competition Heats Up, A little

Slowly, albeit very slowly, competition amongst hybrid cars is building.

Already we have the Toyota Highlander hybrid versus the Ford Escape hybrid versus the Lexus RX 400h, as well the Toyota Prius versus the Honda Civic hybrid, and soon we'll have the Toyota Camry hybrid versus the Honda Accord hybrid.

Both the Accord and the Camry are already top selling cars in America. So, how will the hybrid battle between these two champions play out?

Unfortunately, it probably won't be much of a battle.

The Accord hybrid is a performance hybrid, offering some of the best performance of any Accord. For the power offered, the Accord hybrid offers good fuel efficiency. Ultimately, however, the hybrid Accord was built to perform on the highway, not to set fuel efficiency records.

The Camry hybrid, on the other hand, will offer significant gains in both fuel economy and pollution reductions compared to a standard Camry. While the hybrid Camry will still perform well, it wasn't designed for 0 to 60 supremacy, however the hybrid Camry should offer exceptional fuel efficiency.

Ironically, the real competition in the hybrid vehicle wars will probably be between the Camry hybrid and the Prius.

The Beautiful Lexus RX 400h hybrid vehicle

For those who need luxury, but want a hybrid

I'm a take-the-subway-everywhere kind of guy, and when it comes to hybrid cars I'm more inclined to the Toyota Prius, Civic hybrid, or Insight.

For me a vehicle purchase is more about transportation not some sort of status symbol. I don't take public transportation, walk to the store, or drive a hybrid to make others feel guilty. I do it because I feel guilty if I don't.

So, when my friend told me he was interested in hybrids, I strongly urged him to buy the new Civic hybrid or the Prius - he needed seating for four, so the Insight wasn't an option. Thus, I was a little surprised when he stopped by last night in his new Lexus RX 400h hybrid.

He was in a rush, but he still took me for a quick trip around my neighborhood.

I hate to admit it, but I'm a bit jealous. The Lexus 400h is a gorgeous vehicle. While still not my cup of tea, I'm proud of my friend. Inevitably, he is causing significantly less pollution and he is investing in hybrid technology. Considering he was a devout gas-guzzler not long ago, this is a huge improvement.

Are automakers destroying hybrid technology?

Yesterday, Business Week printed the article, Are hybrid sales running out of gas, which argues that other than the Toyota Prius hybrid, the sales of most other hybrid cars are slowing.

Unfortunately, I basically agree with Business Week that the costs of hybrids are an issue that is slowing hybrid sales. Hybrid vehicles do save gas, but they do not always save enough gas to justify the higher costs, especially hybrid SUVs.

Thus, only those with the wallet and the passion to fight foreign oil dependency or for the environment, can afford these vehicles.

A much larger customer segment; however, can afford vehicles such as the Prius or the Honda Civic hybrid. Still, the conventional Civic isn't a gas-guzzler, so you inevitably start comparing the Civic hybrid to the conventional Civic. For most consumers, up-front costs will eventually dominate.

The Prius, on the other hand, is unique. It is the hybrid vehicle, not a conventional vehicle with hybrid technology.

If someone wants to buy a sports car, they wouldn't typically want to buy a souped-up Chevy Malibu, they would want to buy a Corvette. Simply putting a badge on a Chevy Malibu that states 'Corvette Powered' doesn't make the Malibu a Corvette, even if they both have the same engine and performance.

Vehicles, such as the Ford Escape hybrid or the Toyota Highlander hybrid, will always have an audience, but they will never meet the sales demand of the Prius. If there were a unique hybrid SUV; however, it would dominate hybrid SUV sales.

Nonetheless, in the next year gas prices are going to go up significantly as refineries go from MTBE to ethanol additives. Additionally, in the next couple of years we will probably see multiple, significant spikes in the price of gasoline. All of these events will renew interest in ALL hybrid vehicles.

Additionally, hybrid technology is and will continue to advance. These advancements, and the potential small business tax credit for hybrid vehicles, could make hybrids, such as the Escape and Highlander, very cost-effective - perhaps even long term bargains.

Still, the only way hybrid technology will ever take off is when a number of unique hybrid vehicles are competing against each other. If automakers don't take this approach, the potential of hybrids will never be reached.

Intellichoice Best Overall Values of 2006: A lot of hybrids

In the last 2 weeks, hybrid cars have picked up some great press.

Consumer Reports picked two hybrid vehicles, the Toyota Prius and the Toyota Highlander hybrid, for it's Top 10 Best Values in automobile's issue. The Prius hybrid was also found to be the most satisfying to owners, with 95% of those owners interested in buying another Prius.

Then Edmunds/CNN released a report that the Prius, Ford Escape hybrid and the Lexus RX400h hybrid were among the 10 hottest cars in America because these vehicles fly off the sale's lot.

Intellichoice also picked a number of hybrids as the Best Overall Values for 2006. The Toyota Prius, the Ford Escape hybrid, and the Toyota Highlander hybrid were included in the 8 Overall Best Values. The Honda Civic hybrid and the Honda Insight also picked up awards in Best Values in their Class. (more)

Consumer Reports and Hybrid Cars: What you need to know

What's the word on hybrids?

Consumer Report's Annual Auto Issue is one of the most important sources for unbiased ratings and reviews of automobiles. So, what can we learn from Consumer Reports when it comes to hybrid cars.?

First, we learned that the Toyota Highlander hybrid is the best SUV over $30,000 and that the Toyota Prius hybrid is the Best Green Vehicle.

Second, we learned that the Prius is the Most Satisfying vehicle according to owners. A whopping 95% of Prius owners would buy another Prius (more).

Third, we learned that hybrid vehicles have thus far proven to be extremely reliable. In fact, the Prius and the Honda Civic hybrid topped CR's rankings of Most reliable, with just 4% of owners reporting problems. In addition, the Highlander hybrid, Lexus RX400h hybrid and the Accord hybrid also did very well in reliability.

Of course, the long term reliability of hybrids is still a question, a question that can only be answered once enough hybrids have been on the road for more than a decade. Ultimately, the reliability of hybrids is extremely important as it is the factor in determining the overall value of hybrids, which brings us to our final point.

Fourth, are hybrid vehicles worth the cost?

According to Consumer Reports, only two hybrids can save you money after the first five years: the Prius and the Civic hybrid. Of course, once the capped tax credits for hybrids expire, these vehicles will then cost more than their conventional counterparts, well, maybe.

The article, Hybrids: Save gas, lose money, notes that "six hybrid gasoline/electric vehicles, will lose 2 percent to 3 percent more in value over five years of ownership than otherwise identical non-hybrid vehicles." While the Prius can save $406 after 5 years and the Civic hybrid saves $317, the rest of the hybrids lose money after five years: Ford Escape Hybrid ($1,883), Honda Accord Hybrid ($4,263), Lexus RX400h ($4,171) and Toyota Highlander Hybrid ($5,508).

Of course, as in life, few things are ever black and white.

To start, there is no "identical non-hybrid vehicle" to compare to the Prius. If the Prius were simply a hybrid Corolla, it would be called the Corolla hybrid. Quite simply, the Prius is a unique vehicle and when you consider performance, reliability and customer satisfaction, the Prius is a unique, awesome vehicle.

As for the rest of the hybrid vehicle segment, it is true that cost is an important concern. Still, for those that care, can you really put a cost on foreign oil dependency or a cleaner environment? Sometimes doing the right thing is neither the cheapest nor easiest thing to do.

Furthermore, the Consumer Reports study makes several important assumptions. For example, it assumes that your auto insurance will cost more. Overtime; however, this might not be true, especially when you consider that some insurance providers have already offered discounts to hybrid drivers.

CR also assumes extra financing costs for hybrids. Already, Ford has begun to offer incentives and better financing deals on its hybrid vehicles, so this 'cost' might not remain an extra cost.

The most important assumption affecting the costs of hybrids; however, is extra depreciation, which CR claims could range from $2,900 to 6,300 after 5 years. These are huge numbers that cannot, at this point in time, be backed by fact.

For example, if hybrid batteries generally last the life of these vehicles, which Toyota engineers claim is quite possible, then these numbers will be horribly wrong. Additionally, as more hybrids are built, hybrid battery costs will come down.

Moreover, it could turn out that replacing the battery packs of older hybrids could make hybrids twice as fuel efficient as before with new battery technology, such as lithium batteries. Not only would this reverse depreciation costs, but it would double fuel savings costs.

In 10 years, it could turn out that replacing the hybrid battery pack on an old hybrid actually results in a better hybrid than when new. Imagine the effect this would have on resale value.

Additionally, "Hybrid supporter and Prius owner James Bell, publisher of the automotive guide IntelliChoice, recently sold his two-year-old Prius for just $4,000 less than he originally paid for it -- a remarkably low rate of depreciation." (more)

So, hybrid depreciation is a complete wild card.

Furthermore, "We really like hybrids in terms of their overall performance" and environmental benefits, says Doug Love, a spokesman for Consumers Union.

In conclusion, the CR study does demonstrates that hybrid vehicles do pose some risk when it comes to long term value; however, the CR study largely assumes the worst case scenario. If hybrid batteries are very reliable and/or new battery technology could cost-effectively make old hybrids twice as fuel efficient, then hybrids could end up as long term bargains.

Consumer Reports and hybrid car costs

Civic and Prius hybrids DO save money

If you read the Consumer Reports Best and Worst Cars of 2006 issue, then you know that Consumer Reports reported that in the short term - 5 years - not one hybrid saves money compared to their conventional counterparts.

Well, CR has admitted that it made a mistake and that the Toyota Prius and the Honda Civic hybrid actually do save money, $406 and $317 (more).

So, some hybrid cars actually do save money!

Why gas-guzzling is great!

What's better than a gas-guzzling SUV that can go offroad?

A more powerful, even greater guzzling SUV that can't go offroad. It's pure guzzling pleasure, a message to the world that the price of gasoline means nothing, nor does common sense.

Now that's saying something!

As for global warming and foreign oil dependency, those are just treehugging conspiracies - every real American knows that.

That's why I can't wait for the new muscle cars from Ford and GM, so I can fly by those granola-eating Prius and Civic hybrid drivers. They act like they are saving the world. Give me a break, they aren't making a dent in foreign oil dependency. That's why I buy GM products, they understand America. Just look at Bob Lutz.

"There's enormous good will for the glory days of American cars, when they really were American and didn't try to be Japanese or German," says GM car czar Bob Lutz.

Gas guzzling is the essence of America. Since we're the best in the world, we can do whatever we want. Besides, if I wasn't using so much gas, those people in the Middle East wouldn't have any money and that would breed real terrorism. The truth is gas-guzzling helps fight terrorism. The richer we make those people the less they'll want to kill us.

I'm the real American. America is about choice, even if it is a stupid choice, such as buying a hybrid car.

Be a real American, buy the biggest gas-guzzler you can find! Together we can change the world!

Hybrid cars and reliability

Can you trust hybrid technology?

I regularly receive e-mails that ask, "Are hybrid cars reliable?"

Well, according to Consumer Reports, they are. In fact, both the Toyota Prius and the Honda Civic hybrid were found to be the most reliable vehicles by CR, with just 4% of owners reporting problems.

Additionally, the CR study also picked the Toyota Highlander hybrid as one of its Top 10 vehicles of 2006, a ranking which also includes reliability. Two other hybrids, the Lexus RX400h and the Honda Accord hybrid also received high marks.

Sure it is possible that the smaller production lines of these hybrid vehicles eases the ability to ensure their reliability. Moreover, the long term reliability of hybrids is still somewhat of question, since hybrids simply haven't been around long enough. Yet, first generation Prii and Honda Insight hybrids have proven to be reliable after several years.

While the long term reliability of the hybrid battery pack will remain a question for another decade, based upon current evidence hybrids appear extremely reliable. If the hybrid battery pack lasts the life of the vehicle, as many Toyota hybrid engineers believe, the long term value of hybrids has been significantly underestimated.

The Toyota Prius is one awesome vehicle

Don't believe me?

Just look at what Consumer Reports said about the Toyota Prius hybrid, "an unbeatable combination of economy, acceleration and interior room."

Moreover, the Prius is the Most Satisfying Vehicle according to CR. 95% of owners are interested in buying another Prius. The only vehicles that even compare to this kind of customer satisfaction are the Corvette at 93% or the Infiniti M35/M45 at 92%.

Still not enough?

While there have been many myths regarding the reliability of hybrid cars, it has been much ado about nothing. The facts demonstrate that the Toyota Prius is extremely reliable. According to CR the 2005 Toyota Prius was the most reliable vehicle, as only 4% of owners reported problems.

O.K., that isn't totally true. The Honda Civic hybrid actually tied the Prius as most reliable according to owners.

While long term reliability will not be proven for a few years, at this point in time the evidence indicates that hybrids are very reliable.

Are luxury hybrids worth it?

Soon Lexus will be offering two luxury hybrids

What's the point of hybrid cars? To many it's all about fuel efficiency as hybrids represent an answer to foreign oil dependency or less cost on fuel. To many others, however, hybrids are simply about the environment.

Hybrids, even luxury hybrids, significantly reduce automobile emissions and that is great for the environment.

Still, some owners of the Lexus RX400h hybrid have complained about fuel efficiency. In reality; however, the RX400h offers very fair fuel economy for the performance that it provides.

Does this fuel economy justify the extra cost? Probably not. Yet, if fuel economy is your primary concern, why are you buying a luxury, performance-orientated vehicle?

The truth is, the Lexus RX400h is an "excellent" vehicle according to Consumer Reports. For the level of performance, the RX400h provides very good fuel economy. More important, the Lexus RX400h protects the environment and invests in hybrid technology. Eventually, this hybrid investment will lead to greater fuel economy in luxury hybrid vehicles.

Performance hybrids such as the Lexus RX400h and the upcoming Lexus GS450h hybrid sedan were not designed to save money at the gas pump. If you want to save money at the gas pump, then you buy a Toyota Prius or a Honda Civic hybrid.

While I'm not a huge fan of performance hybrids because foreign oil dependency is an important concern for me, I still appreciate these hybrids. Inevitably, an investment in any hybrid will lead to better, more fuel efficient hybrid technology for all hybrids, including luxury hybrid vehicles.

For luxury vehicle buyers, I give Lexus hybrids two thumbs up, way up.

Interested in a hybrid vehicle? Now might be the best time

So, you're thinking about buying a hybrid vehicle, but you just aren't ready? Well, now might be your best opportunity.

In the last several weeks gas prices have dropped, yet last week's suicide attack on a Saudi oil refinery could have pushed the price of gasoline up far more than Katrina. Almost certainly, we are in the calm before the oil price storm and gas prices will eventually spike this year. When that happens, as it did after Katrina, interest in hybrid cars will also spike.

Even without a spike, tax credits for Toyota hybrids will expire before the end of the year. So, if you are interested in a Prius or Highlander hybrid you should act now, if the credit is important. Interest in the Prius is always high, but if gas prices skyrocket again, finding a Prius could prove almost impossible.

While tax credits for the Honda Civic hybrid or the Ford Escape hybrid, for example, will probably last through the year, finding one of these vehicles might also prove nearly impossible following another surge in energy prices.

So, if you want to buy a hybrid this year, now could be the best time. Of course, if you are waiting for the Camry hybrid, there isn't much you can do until at least May.

Hybrid cars and Gas costs: Still a huge misunderstanding

Fortune Magazine is publishing an article on the development of the Toyota Prius in its March 6th issue. As a preview, Alex Taylor III wrote the article, Toyota's recipe for success.

Taylor doesn't seem critical of hybrid cars and appears to try to be objective in touching on the major hybrid issues. He is, ultimately, laying down the foundation for how Toyota's hybrids might completely dominate the future of automobile sales after all.

Still, he notes, "Critics complain that hybrids are inherently uneconomical because the $3,000 or more the technology adds to the cost of the vehicle can't be recouped with greater gas mileage; that they didn't improve fuel efficiency that much; and that some American models were being built more for performance than to benefit the environment."

To which Taylor states, "The knocks against hybrids are all true. But what the critics didn't put a price on was the value of being seen as eco-sensitive without giving up performance."

"Does it save enough money to pay for itself?" asks Jim Press, president of Toyota Motor Sales in the U.S. "That's not the idea. What's the true cost of a gallon of gas, if you factor in foreign aid, Middle Eastern wars, and so on? The truth is on our side."

While I agree with Mr. Press about real cost of gasoline, I have a bigger issue. Are hybrid vehicles "inherently uneconomical"?

There is simply no way that you can argue that a Toyota Prius is "inherently uneconomical", even without the current hybrid tax credit, and I'd say that the Honda Civic hybrid is close to this category as well. These vehicles are cost effective and do recover their costs for many drivers, especially those that drive in urban areas.

But let's just run a few simple numbers. In Southern California, where I live, it isn't uncommon to spend $100.00 per week on gasoline. That would add up to $4800.00 per year. Let's say a hybrid saves 20% - even though many save more - on your fuel needs. That would be roughly a $1000.00 per year. In 5 years you've saved $5000.00? What's the problem?

O.K., let's cut that it in half. $50.00 per week, $2500.00 per year and after 5 years you've saved $2500.00. Still not bad, and on the Civic and Prius you've recouped your costs. That's at current gas prices, which could go up significantly in the next 5 years. So, what's wrong with this bet, especially if protecting the environment is an important concern? This isn't treehugger craziness, it's just common sense.

To describe hybrids as simply "inherently uneconomical", is simply "inherently ignorant." Hybrids like the Prius recover their costs, while significantly reducing emissions. You're not losing money to be green. In fact, for many drivers it is a cost benefit to own a Prius.

Yes, cost-effectiveness isn't true for all hybrids, but it will be true for most hybrids in the future based on emerging hybrid technology. Most hybrid buyers understand this investment in the future angle, in addition to the real cost of gasoline and oil dependence.

That's why we shouldn't have capped tax credits for hybrid vehicles. Instead, we simply should have ended the $25,000 + tax deductions for the Detroit's worse gas-guzzlers.

That's "inherently uneconomical" for the welfare of the United States.

Fit Honda adding another hybrid vehicle to lineup

Honda set to offer the first subcompact hybrid.

In 2007, according to unofficial reports, Honda will begin offering the Honda Fit Hybrid, a subcompact hybrid. With a starting price of just $11,790.00, the Fit hybrid should shake up the world of hybrid cars.

According to the report, the new Fit will achieve fuel efficiency in the range of the Toyota Prius hybrid or the Honda Insight hybrid.

Some analysts already speculate that this move is a sign that Honda now believes that hybrid vehicles will have a much more critical role in the future. In the past, Honda has indicated that it wasn't sure about the future of hybrids. In addition to the Insight and Fit hybrids, Honda also offers the Civic hybrid - now in its second generation - and the Accord hybrid.

Ironically, this will be Honda's fourth hybrid car. GM, on the other hand, has stated that it is mostly interested in putting hybrid technology only in its large vehicles. Thus, one cannot help but wonder if GM is not sealing its fate with its stubborn refusal to challenge Japan in small cars and the new battle for fuel efficiency supremacy.

Washington Post rips hybrid's HOV access

I try to not get too involved in politics. When push comes to shove, it takes a lot of money to be successfully elected to higher office, and almost as soon as a politician is elected, they are already thinking about their reelection. Thus, I think politics - on both sides of the aisle - are about money. As a result I have little faith in either party and am a registered Independent.

Nonetheless, I thought the Washington Post was a liberal paper, but I guess not when it comes to hybrid cars, the environment, or foreign oil dependency.

Since Sunday the paper has taken an agenda against hybrid cars and HOV lane access. On Sunday, the Post printed an editorial calling for the end of HOV lane access for hybrids because "As plenty of the region's commuters know, hybrid vehicles are the main culprit in the ever-worsening traffic in the region's carpool lanes."

The Post points out that 22% of vehicles in the HOV lane are hybrids, which tops the 15% of illegal users also using the HOV lanes. Yet, does the Post care about the illegal users? No, only the hybrid vehicles, which the post states " Hybrids' environmental advantages have diminished as stricter federal rules have required gas-powered cars to have cleaner engines, starting with 2004 models."

So now the Post believes that current gasoline automobiles solve all of America's problems? According to the Post there is now no reason to worry about pollution, global warming, or foreign oil dependency?

I can't help but wonder what the editors at the Post drive, but I bet its BMW, Mercedes, and Lexus. Gas-guzzling means nothing to this fine group of Americans because the cost of gasoline means nothing to people who make the kind of money editors for the Post make.

On a side note, I also wonder how many editors at the Post have children enlisted in the Military - I'd bet not many.

While I understand that hybrids might cause problems for HOV effectiveness and that is an issue worth addressing, to claim that hybrid's environmental impact is now insignificant because of new gasoline vehicles is a complete travesty - an absolute joke.

Yeah, all the gas-guzzlers idling in traffic everyday aren't really a problem anymore, at least not if they are 2004 or later models - as long as you aren't worried about the billions of barrels of oil they waste every year in traffic. And, oh yeah, in congestion even 2004 gasoline vehicles create significantly more pollution than hybrids, but who really ever drives in congestion? Don't we all drive 55 mph on the highway all the time?

So, hybrids are the problem, I mean they do make up almost 1% of all vehicle sales in America, isn't that already enough? Isn't that enough change for one lifetime? Haven't we almost solved global warming and foreign oil dependency already anyway?

I say if you care about the environment, if you care about foreign oil dependency, or if you care about obscene oil company profits, then you should toast the post. Cancel your subscription.

If everyone in America drove a hybrid, such as the Toyota Prius or the Honda Civic hybrid, foreign oil would not be needed. That's a goal worth striving for and it's far more important than HOV congestion - by far.

Yet, this isn't even an issue for the Post. How pathetic.

Maybe, just maybe, in the short term, the Post could focus on the 15% of illegal drivers in the HOV lane. How much money could be made by fining all of those drivers? Additionally, HOV traffic would be less than it was before hybrids if illegal users were punished and forced to stop using HOV lanes.

But that's not the point of the Post. Instead, let's not focus on people breaking the law, let's focus on hybrid cars - didn't you know, they are America's real problem.