Hybrids sooner rather than hybrids later.
By Colin Ayres - EcoCarOnline.com
Though environmental experts are divided on the impact of hybrids, financial
experts couldn't be more inline. There is little doubt among them that the
popularity of hybrid vehicles will strengthen in the coming years. In fact,
many automakers continue to invest millions of dollars in half-gas,
half-electric technology to keep pace with sales that are expected to grow
exponentially.
It's not a bold prediction. As a greater variety of hybrid models are made
available, consumers will be more inclined to "go green" because it is
possible to drive a car they truly love and save the environment - at least
a little bit - at the same time. In fact, Toyota's Prius could be eclipsed
as the King of Hybrids. Gasp! Shocking, but true. The first automaker to
take a bold step and offer a hybrid that is fuel-efficient, affordable, and
most importantly handsome may steal the title.
It could happen as soon as 2008. According to HyrbidCenter.org, the
following makes and models are expected (emphasis on expected) to be
released before the first decade of this millennium comes to a close.
The Honda "next generation hybrid" is a 5-seat compact model that will be
introduced between 2008 and 2009. The goal of the release is to compete with
Toyota's market dominance (surprise). It will be less expensive and smaller
than the current Honda Civic Hybrid, and will be an entirely new vehicle,
not a "hybridized" version of an existing gas-powered model.
Toyota also plans to release a new model by 2008. And unfortunately for
competing automakers, it's the third generation Toyota Prius, the extremely
popular midsize model with seating for five passengers. Version three will
be totally redesigned and possibly even achieve short trips (about 10 miles
or so) without a single drop of petrol or diesel. Though nothing has been
confirmed by Toyota, the estimated gas mileage has been rumored to be in the
90's.
Hyundai is getting in the mix as well, planning to offer the new Accent/Kia
Rio Hybrid by 2009. Improving on earlier models, the Accent/Kia Rio Hybrid
achieves 44% improvement in fuel economy and costs only $10,000. And don't
forget about Ford. Their Fusion/Mercury Milan Hybrid, a 5-seat sedan is
expected to be unveiled by 2008 and will offer both four- and six-cylinder
engines.
And then there's Porsche. Huh? What? It's true. In a few years Porsche will
unveil a much-improved Cayenne Hybrid, which according to reps will maintain
the performance of the conventional model but cut fuel consumption
significantly. They will also introduce the Panamera Hybrid around the same
time. A five-seat, four door, hatchback coupe, the Panamera will feature a
V10 or V12 engine. Vroom, to say the least.
Source. HybridCenter.org |
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