Feb

24

The myths about hybrid vehicles II

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In the second of the hybrid myth series we will dispel a couple of more myths today.

The batteries of the hybrids require frequent replacement

The hybrid technology is designed to keep the batteries charged in the range of 35% - 85%. This ensures that the battery sustains itself through the life time of the vehicle. Eventually the batteries, of course need to be replaced. Honda categorically states that their batteries are designed to last a decade! Even the Toyota Prius comes with a 8 year/ 100,000 miles warranty on all hybrid components including the battery. Industry observers and experts put the life of batteries in hybrid cars at 150,000 to 200,000 miles before the call for replacement has to be made. Well, that’s a long, long way to go.

Cold climates make the hybrids sweat

Hybrid cars can be driven at any point of time irrespective of the climatic conditions. The cars can safely be operated at 20 degrees below Fahrenheit. The batteries of the hybrid can sustain in 140 degrees Fahrenheit also. They don’t get too hot because of the internal air cooling system that they operate within.

In the long term the hybrids are not good because of the dead hazardous batteries

This is one of the most commonly held myths. As I said the batteries of the hybrid vehicles are designed to last a decade at the end of which they would need to be replaced. These are NiMH batteries which are 100% recyclable. And as a matter of fact some companies like Toyota shell out 200 USD if you bring a battery to them for recycling.

Feb

10

The myths about hybrid vehicles I

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As this relatively new technology of hybrid cars catches the public imagination, question are raised on the feasibility of the vehicle. Here are some of the common myths dispelled.

Hybrids are expensive than their conventional cousins

The pricing actually depends upon the model and the make. The LexusRX400h is about 6000 USD costlier than Lexus RX 350. That’s definitely a good difference. The difference between the Mercury Mariner Hybrid and the starting model of Mariner Luxury AWD is only around 3000 USD. This difference is easily offset by the cost of the fuel the owner would save over a period of time. Add to this the tax incentive that would reduce the cost of the hybrid. And with the spiraling prices of oil, the savings arising out of fuel would further narrow the gap.

They are less powerful than the convention cars

It again boils down to the model. The Civic hybrid is slower and less powerful than its conventional predecessor Civic sedan. Whereas, the Toyota Highlander is faster than the regular Highlander. And the Honda Accord hybrid is one of the most powerful Accord ever.

Hybrid vehicles need to be plugged in

This is not true to the best of my knowledge. The hybrids cars are completely self sufficient and do not require any external support source of power to keep its batteries from discharging. The batteries recharge themselves by capturing energy from the brakes. This is often known as regenerative braking.

Feb

2

Toyota: their new presentations

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As rumors have it, Toyota is likely to add 2 more small vehicles in its U.S. range of cars. This new thought has come about because of the pressures it faces in regards to new fuel economy standards. In order to not lose out to other automobile vendors, it’s necessary that they introduce new vehicles that meet standards. 

Though just a proposal, it is believed to be not far from the truth. Of the two proposals, one is the Urban Cruiser that was introduced as a concept entry-level crossover that entered the market in 2006. The other motor vehicle has been presented as a concept last month at the Detroit auto show and is an A-BAT compact pickup hybrid.