With gas prices climbing, and experts predicting that they'll continue to rise, more and more drivers are considering a gasoline/electric hybrid car as their next new vehicle. Because these cars are only a few years old and are still relatively rare, a lot of myths and misconceptions surround hybrid vehicles. Some people have elevated expectations, and might be disappointed by the truth. Others don't give hybrid cars enough credit, and might be happier than they think with this type of car. Before heading out to the local auto dealership, the wise consumer will learn the realities behind hybrid car technology.

Myth #1: Hybrid cars are too small to be useful.

It's true that the first-generation hybrid cars, the Toyota Prius and the Honda Insight, are both pretty small. The Prius is classified as a mid-size sedan, but it won't comfortably hold three kids and all of their soccer gear.

Auto manufacturers, though, were encouraged by the warm reception that consumers gave to hybrid cars, and are rolling out a lot of new hybrid models. Dealerships now carry two hybrid SUVs, the Ford Escape and the Lexus RX 400h. People who plan on buying their first hybrid in the next few years will have even more choices; at least ten new models will be introduced by the end of 2007, with almost every major manufacturer getting in on the game.

Myth #2: Hybrid drivers have to sacrifice performance.

Because the first-generation hybrid cars were designed to get superior gas mileage (60 miles to the gallon), they were a little slow out of the gate. But today's hybrid cars are both fast and powerful.

Some people worry that their hybrid cars won't be able to keep up with the V-6s they'll be riding with in the HOV lanes. But that fear is unfounded. Most hybrids have a top speed of over 100 miles per hour, and acceleration times that are comparable to their non-hybrid counterparts.

Newer hybrids are just as powerful as they are fast. The Lexus RX 400h boasts a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds, with 38 more horsepower than the V6.