FobzyLowest Priced Hybrid Car
October 5th 2009 03:54
The lowest priced hybrid car is what auto manufacturers are attempting to achieve. There are several hybrid cars that already compete with the mainstream market, but it's been difficult to determine just how small consumers are willing to go. For example, a new small compact hybrid might have to offer 60 MPG (miles per gallon) and above to entice buyers.
We do know that Honda and Toyota are the strongest competitors as they convert conventional compact cars to hybrid technologies. Honda wants to release a hybrid version of the Fit, while Toyota is focusing more on its Yaris model. The two cars are similar in mileage, but it will be interesting to learn what the MPG ratings will be when they enter the hybrid market.
The gasoline version of the 2010 Honda Fit can achieve 27 miles per gallon in the city, and 33 miles per gallon on the highway. It has a base price of $14,900. The car is popular among college students and singles.
The 2010 Toyota Yaris is very similar and attracts the same buyers, for the most part. It has a base price of $12,335. The gasoline version can achieve 29 MPG in the city and 36 miles per gallon on the highway.
Production for the Honda Fit Hybrid has been moved up to 2010, but we don't know when the Toyota Yaris Hybrid will be available. However, according to Toyota's chief engineer of the Yaris redesign, Akihiko Otsuka, it could arrive in 2011. The MPG ratings for the two cars are very similar.
The Toyota Prius can already achieve up to 51 miles per gallon. The Prius is also a larger vehicle than the Yaris. This is why I believe that the Yaris will need to really improve mileage, perhaps more than the Prius, to really stand out for a better cost.
For now, the 2010 Honda Insight is still the cheapest hybrid vehicle. If you add all the optional accessories, including Navigation system, the price is still cheaper than the basic Toyota Prius or the 2010 Ford Fusion. Hybrid batteries are one of the reasons why these new fuel-efficient cars are expensive. As the industry matures, the batteries are expected to drop due to higher demand.
By: Kara Gilmoure newsoxy
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