The Latest in Hybrid Happenings

Hybrids are one of the most popular options in transportation today. Consumers are flocking to these vehicles for many reasons. One of the most popular reasons consumers love hybrids is because they save them hundreds of dollars a year in gasoline purchases. Hybrids are not only easy on the pocketbook, but also extremely easy on the environment. These environmental advantages are getting the attention of government and corporations as well. With more hybrid models coming out each year, it is no shock that this innovative vehicle design is moving to the top of the sales chain.

Some of the freshest news in hybrid happens involves legislation. Many states and cities are becoming more aware of the environmental advantages hybrids offer for their communities. Just by driving a hybrid, the average citizen is cutting their transportation pollution output by up to 90%. If every citizen made the transition to the hybrid, there would be much less air pollution in an area. Therefore, the government is beginning to offer incentives for hybrid owners.

In some areas, hybrid car owners are enjoying perks for their local government already. In large cities like Los Angeles, hybrid owners can park at any city parking meter for free. Various cities in New Mexico and Connecticut are also offering free city parking for hybrid owners. Even cities that have not offered free parking are offering parking discounts. Students, professors, and staff at the University of Miami enjoy a 50% reduction in their parking fees for driving a hybrid vehicle. Many of these locations only authorize certain hybrids however, based on their total emissions. If you drive a hybrid, you may want to investigate your community's incentives.

By offering incentives, community governments can encourage consumers to make wise environmental decisions. Although it is unlikely these incentives will completely influence a car buyer to get a hybrid, they will often help a car buyer who is "on the fence" choose a hybrid for their purchase. Showing the citizens of the community that the government is committed to rewarding those who contribute is a great way to help the hybrid trend.

Corporations that care about their communities are also getting in on the incentive deals. Many, especially in the state of California, are offering cash toward the purchase of a hybrid for all full time employees. Some corporations will only approve specific hybrid models and others have a limit on how many employees can take advantage of the cash each year. However, as a whole, this incentive is working great. There are many reasons a corporation can benefit from offering this type of incentive, however at the end of the day, the only thing that matters is that the incentive is helping the environment.

Since sales of hybrids are soaring, there will be many new hybrid models coming to consumers in the next few years. Most of the hybrids on the market thus far have been cars. For the 2006 model year however, there will be four new sport utility vehicles offered. The Lexus RX 400h, the Mazda Tribute, the Mercury Mariner, and the Toyota Highlander are all going to be available. All of the models are only available with automatic transmissions. The Ford Escape that was introduced for the 2005 model year is doing so well that manufacturers are optimistic about these new designs. Obviously, these designs won't get as many mpg as a hybrid car will, but they are still very eco-friendly.

At least twelve more hybrid models are expected by the end of 2008. These models will include a Toyota Camry Hybrid, a Nissan Altima Hybrid, a Chevrolet Malibu, Chevrolet Tahoe, and a GMC Yukon Hybrid. With something that appeals to everyone coming out, there is an expected increase in the sales of hybrids. Consumers are going to be choosing models that they already love and getting the perks of driving a hybrid.

With the government, businesses, and manufacturers focusing on hybrid models and incentives for hybrids, there should be a continued trend involving hybrids. Consumers will take advantage of these incentives and feel great about doing their part to help the environment. With lifestyles that make driving cars almost necessary, these hybrids are offering a peaceful alternative for vehicle drivers everywhere.

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