When evaluating the purchase of a hybrid vehicle, there are several things you should keep in mind. Knowing what you’re buying will help prepare you for hybrid ownership and enjoy the benefits of these kinds of vehicles.
Drivetrain
Hybrid vehicles use two energy sources to power the wheels that move the car. A conventional gasoline engine is standard and is usually paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission. In the case of the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid, you get a 6-speed automatic transmission.
One or more electric motors are also included. Energy from the battery pack or from the braking system helps to keep these motors going. With plug-in hybrids, an outside source of electricity also provides energy.
Battery Systems
Connecting to the electric motors, the hybrid’s battery system stores energy that is needed to operate the hybrid in times of electric-only driving. Older systems use nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) batteries while some new systems use lithium-ion (Li-ion) or lithium polymer (Li-Poly) batteries. The latter two are lighter and more efficient and are found in cars like the Sonata Hybrid. The Toyota Camry Hybrid still uses NiMH batteries.
Performance
Hybrid systems vary from manufacturer to manufacturer as well as from vehicle to vehicle. Models such as the Ford Fusion Hybrid can run on electric-only power at speeds up to 47 mpg. Others, such as the PHEV Toyota Prius, can operate for about 15 miles on electric-only power.
Hybrid models offer excellent torque and often outperform comparable gas-powered models in speed tests. Most hybrids can top 100 mph, giving drivers a car that not only saves fuel, but has the performance to back it up.
Warranty Plans
All hybrid models are covered by the same new vehicle, powertrain and rust perforation warranties offered by manufacturers for their other vehicles. Most also come with roadside assistance and the availability of purchasable extended service plans.
The battery pack has its own warranty, offering replacement coverage for 8 years or 100,000 miles by law. In some states, such as California and New York, that warranty is for 10 years or 150,000 miles. Battery packs have been known to last much longer including a fleet of hybrid taxi cabs in San Francisco that were recently retired after topping 300,000 miles on the initial battery pack.
Final Thoughts
Hybrid models make more sense when gas prices are high rather than when prices are low. Such vehicles also emit fewer pollutants and some models come with tax breaks. Some hybrids hold their value better than comparable gas powered cars, although the starting price for hybrids is higher. Hybrid manufacturers prefer to include energy efficient parts including seats derived from recycled bottles and other repurposed materials.
See Also — How to Finance Your Hybrid Car in 4 Steps
| google+ |
- ALL WEATHER FLOOR MATS: The all-season rubber floor mats protect your car's floors from dert & debris. Improved deeper tread pattern holds water,...
- SUB-ZERO WEATHER: The 4-piece floor mat set is designed to be trimmed so that they may be customized to fit almost any vehicle. They are engineered to...
- FLOOR MATS FOR CARS: Keep your car cleaner for longer periods of time with a variety of heavy duty floor mats for the front and back seats of your...
- All-season heavy-duty rubber floor mat (3-piece set, front and full-coverage back) for any car, SUV, or truck
- Made of premium, thick, heavy-duty BPA-free rubber that's nontoxic and odorless; long-lasting, fade-resistant design won't crack, split, or warp under...
- Ergonomic no-slip grooves on the top provide comfortable foot traction, while anti-slip rubberized spikes on the bottom keep the floor mats securely...
- Built for Protection - Guard Against any Spills, Dirt, and All-Weather Conditions; Full Protection - Set of 2 Front Mats, 1 Rear Liner, 1 Cargo Mat...
- Eco-Tech Products - Made from , Odorless EVA Rubber, and Approved by SGS European Standard
- Custom Fit - Designed for Compatibility and Made to be Trimmable to Fit your Vehicle with only a Pair of Scissors
Last update on 2020-03-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
end of post idea for home improvement
view and analyze home improvement ideas at our LetsRenovate center
Helpful article? Leave us a quick comment below.
And please give this article a rating and/or share it within your social networks.
