Monday, October 6, 2008

The New 2008 Hybrid Cars

By Jim Hofman

The 2008 auto year is officially under way, and new models of 2008 hybrid cars are now or will soon be available to consumers. For those unfamiliar with hybrid cars, let's briefly explain why they differ from regular vehicles and why environmentally conscious consumers prefer hybrid vehicles.

Many drivers are attracted to hybrid vehicles because they offer better fuel economy and burn less emissions. Hybrid vehicles are designed with two seperate power sources so the vehicle isn't solely relying on gas for power. Energy is recycled, which in turn burns less fuel and reduces emissions.

To many, hybrid vehicles are appealing, especially as gas prices reach record levels. Hybrid vehicles boast an energy storage system, which recycles energy and circumvents the gas burning engine and powers the vehicle on this recycled energy. Those who may benefit most from hybrid vehicles are city drivers, who are more prone to gas wasting situations like traffic stops, idling, and stop and go traffic.

What You Should Expect To See In 2008:

Midsize Hybrid Vehicles:

Chevy Malibu rolls out a new hybrid model as a 2009 offering late this summer or early fall. Others with similar plans include the Ford Fusion and Saturn's AURA in their Green Line. Also expect a new version of the Mercury Milan as a hybrid.

2008 SUV's and Crossover Hybrids:

Toyota will roll out their Sienna hybrid minivan and also expect to see a Toyota Prius with significantly less weight than the standard Prius. Also, Saturn will introduce their VUE Green Line, touted as having almost 50% fewer emissions vs. their regular model. Also appearing will be the Chevy Equinox SUV.

2009 Hybrid Pickups and Hybrid Truck Models:

General Motors introduces two new hybrid pickup truck options as 2009 models - the Chevy Silverado and the GMC Sierra.

What Else Is New In The Hybrid Car World:

The Chinese auto manufacturer SAIE rolls out their very first 2008 hybrid car offering this year, introducing the Roewe 750, a midsize car. The Roewe 750 is patterned after the United Kingdom's famous Rover 75.

Watch for even more innovative hybrid car introductions as 2009 and 2010 models, as auto manufacturers compete for the ever growing hybrid car and truck market.

About the Author:

No comments: