Fundamental Steps to Consider When Buying a Hybrid

Fundamental Steps to Consider When Buying a Hybrid

1. There is a wide variety and choice of hybrid vehicles already on the market, with lots of newly launched, concept and alternative innovative hybrids making their way onto the market. Supply and demand fuels and drives this fire further. Do not assume that your choices are limited just because the technology is relatively new. DO NOT GET OR BE CONFUSED OR MISLED BY INDUSTRY VERBIAGE: Learn the terminology, language and culture behind these vehicles. (Tip # 3:Take the time to study the differences, classes and types of hybrid vehicles – it will help you narrow the field and tell the real hybrids from the ‘impostors’)

(i) Super Ultra Low-Emission Vehicle (90% cleaner than the average new 2002 model year car, according to the California Air Resources Board Standard); and

(ii) An Ultra Low-Emission Vehicle (about 50% cleaner than the average new 2001 model year car). NOTE:

(iii) There are also furthermore zero-emission cars on the road at present, but they are electric vehicles, plug-ins, not HEVs.

2. Self-assess your current situation, commute, driving habits, preferences and needs. How and where you drive you vehicle (most) is a definite valid question to be asking. This reflection and consideration will help you decide whether an HEV is right for you.

§ Typically thought, as a general rule of thumb, hybrid vehicles are reliable and greatly suited for urban and suburban driving:

§ The short trips and stop-and-go traffic make for impressive fuel savings, if your car runs on an electric engine at low RPMs.

§ Highway and interstate commuters who drive these cars will have lower fuel economy.

§ Combination/hybrid engines (combustion/electrical assist) less to no difference on the fuel economy.

3. They say that variety is the spice of life. Choices and options are limited still with Hybrid vehicles and sometimes for the more popular models you might have to wait a while for delivery of yours as well. Lots of hybrids are being introduced in the market and it will be expanding annually. (Tip # 4: Keep a watchful eye on the car-shows, expos and industry announcements on Hybrids. The market is highly competitive and some automakers are even collaborating to get products to market quicker)

4. SLIGHTLY HIGHER COST will still be an issue. They are high in demand, short in supply, complex technology to manufacture and will become cheaper as the market grows. Some aftermarket offerings are already making its way into the marketplace.

5. Availability and maintenance might be issues in certain areas (outside or urban centers for example). Repair and auto-body shops that work on hybrid cars have to be researched closely as well to ensure smooth operating and regular service as required, done by someone who is familiar and certified to work on these cars.

Take advantage of numerous tax deductions and even free parking for the purchase of a hybrid car.

If you are considering a serious purchase of a Hybrid vehicle

§ Consider all the pros and cons, benefits and costs of a Super Ultra Low- and Ultra Low-Emission vehicles

§ Keep in mind that the availability and choice for HEVs are limited

§ Local repair shops, maintenance and cost of ownership might be a little more expensive than your normal run of the mill car, SUV, truck or Minivan.

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