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The Environmental Future of Hybrid Cars

One of the hottest topics discussed today and certainly one of the most looked forward to advancements in technology is that of hybrid automobiles. All you have to do is turn on the evening news to see new models that are being created and not just to save consumers money on gas, although that is one reason. Looking around these days it is clear that the environment is weighing on the minds of many consumers. All one has to do is look in their rear view mirror and they are sure to spot one of the many hybrid cars that are racing down our roadways. As with any new technology questions have been raised about the impact of hybrid cars on the environment.

Hybrid cars are rapidly gaining popularity. While they are not the roomiest cars on the road they are becoming more and more of a fashion statement; one that says “I care” or “I am doing my part”. Some attribute their success to a new level of awareness about the environment, others to fuel cost and others to the mass amount of celebrities singing there praises. More and more of us are drawn to these vehicles of the “future” intrigued at the fact that many of them don’t use gas at all. If one was to consider the impact that these vehicles may have on the environment in the future they of course can draw pros and cons as with anything.

If you take a look at the negative effects that hybrid vehicles may have on our environmental future you would find only a few. Battery Toxicity is one concern that many environmentally conscious people have. Not unlike other batteries the nickel metal hydride batteries used in today’s hybrid vehicles are toxic. However, nickel metal hydride batteries are less problematic than conventional lead batteries used in most standard vehicles. Ideally in the future some type of lithium battery should be used rather than lead or nickel metal hydride. For now though hybrid carmakers are solving the battery concern by offering substantial bonus money for returning your battery to the company for recycling. Hybrid cars use both fuel and electric so they are not perfect and many critics are quick to point that out. However technology is advancing each day and we are getting closer and closer!

Hybrid cars are more beneficial to the environment because they use less fuel. Although they use some fuel they don't consume nearly as much fuel as conventional automobiles. They produce less smog thus reducing smog overall. They run on a battery but do not have to be plugged in so they are as convenient as a conventional gas powered engine. The gas power only kicks in at higher speeds, leaving a majority of the work to the electric portion of the engine and thus further reducing the effects of the hybrid car on the environment and saving you a bundle of money on your monthly gas bills.

Every year more car manufactures get on board with this new trend. Currently The Toyota Prius is the most recognizable of the hybrid cars. Lexus, Ford and Honda all make hybrid vehicles as well. With car shows, television, celebrity and marketing the hybrid car has a distinct possibility at making a further impact on our environment in the future. The popularity of the hybrid flourishes more from year to year. Although it may have some drawbacks, the positives far outweigh the negatives when it comes to the environmental impact and more and more American’s are recognizing this and are drawn to it when upgrading their automobiles.