What are hybrid-electric vehicles anyway?
They are vehicles powered by a combination gasoline engine and electric motor. A hybrid charges itself as it drives (so you don’t need to plug it in) making the gasoline that it uses last longer. In many ways hybrids are just like regular cars. You don’t notice any difference while driving. You will, however, notice a change at the gas pump. Hybrids cut your gasoline consumption in half—and reduce emissions by up to 90 percent. We love the hybrid powertrain because, if widely adopted, it has the potential to deliver a huge improvement in fuel efficiency in one generation of vehicles. But that’s a big “if.” Stay tuned.
Related Questions
- A recent study Carnegie Mellon University argued that "plug-in" hybrid-electric vehicles, like the Chevy Volt, are too expensive. Are they right?
- What is the impact of commercial vehicles on smog? Are there too many of them for individual commuter change to make a difference?
- What are hybrid-electric vehicles anyway?
