Hybrid Hype: 5 Common Myths about Electric Cars
1. You need to plug in a hybrid car.
Today’s hybrid cars don’t need to be plugged in. Auto engineers have developed a system known as regenerative braking. Energy usually lost when a vehicle is slowing down or stopping is reclaimed and routed to the hybrid’s rechargeable batteries. The gas engine is also used to transfer energy to the batteries. The process is automatic, so no special requirements are placed on the driver.
2. Hybrid batteries need to be replaced frequently.
Worries about an expensive replacement of a hybrid car’s batteries continue to nag many potential buyers. By keeping the charge between 40%-60% and never fully charged but never fully drained, car makers have greatly extended the longevity of nickel metal hydride batteries. The standard warranty on hybrid batteries and other components is between 80,000 and 100,000 miles, depending on the manufacturer and your location.
4. All hybrids are expensive.
Hybrids are currently available in 25 different models ranging in price from $22,000 to $103,000. The most efficient models (Honda Insight and Toyota Prius) are available for less than $30,000. In the coming years, more than 50 models are expected to be available. By that point, hybrids will represent the full range of makes, models and costs.
5. Hybrids are small and underpowered.
The Lexus Rx400h and Toyota Highlander Hybrid both have a 270 horsepower system. The Lexus GS 45h sedan has over 300 horsepower and will go from 0 to 60 mph in less than six seconds. These vehicles prove that adding an electric motor and batteries to the drive train doesn’t have to mean zero performance.
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