In the not-so-distant past, discriminating auto enthusiasts generally shunned hybrid cars. Performance was puny, selection was non-existent, and cost-effectiveness was discouraging. But the recent decade of rising demand for greener cars has driven innovation and competition resulting in a range of hybrids to suit most drivers and their pocketbooks.
Today’s hybrids with advanced battery packs, increasingly sophisticated electronic systems, and widely-praised aerodynamics are comparable to combustion-only counterparts in acceleration and payload.
There has never been such a wide selection of hybrid cars on the American market as the 2010 lineup. MSRPs range from $20,510 for the 2010 Honda Insight to $114,110 for the Lexus LS 600h L with Premium II package.
For the past several years American hybrid car shoppers have been demanding the same array of styles and features found in gasoline-powered vehicles. In 2010 models, the demand is met. Premium sound systems and a full array of features and accessories match gasoline-only vehicles. Family friendly hatchback, sporty coupe, luxurious sedan, SUV and even truck hybrids are available to the mass market. And now the Internet is abuzz with news of the soon-to-be available Karma S hybrid convertible from Fisker.
A decade ago only Japanese automakers were providing hybrid cars to the American market. US makers reluctantly joined the competition with Ford’s introduction of the hybrid Escape in 2004. Today hybrids are made for the American market in Europe. Soon South Korea and China will enter the fray. As more manufacturers from around the globe contribute offerings, the hybrid market will continue to diversify.
Hybrid cars still struggle to accomplish cost parity, but longer-lasting battery packs and ever-increasing fuel efficiency are closing the gap. That combined with various federal and state rebates and special incentives such as reduced registration fees make the cost of a clearer conscience more affordable.
