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.

Myth #3: All hybrid cars are fuel-efficient and have low emissions.

It's true that all hybrid cars are more fuel-efficient and emit fewer noxious gasses than their gasoline-only counterparts. But manufacturers of hybrid vehicles are concerned with both performance and environmentalism. It's just not possible to make a full-sized truck that gets fifty miles to the gallon, even if it does sometimes run off of recaptured energy and the electric motor.

Driving styles also affect gas mileage, and even consumers driving the most energy-efficient hybrids may be disappointed in their fuel economy. The difference made by hybrid engines is most noticeable to people who do most of their driving around town, and who follow energy conservation guidelines such as keeping their trunks empty and staying under sixty miles per hour.

Myth #4: Hybrid cars cost more to maintain.

The cost of maintaining hybrid cars is no higher than for gasoline-only vehicles. There's less wear on the engine and brakes, so the cars are predicted to require less repair over the life of the vehicle. Hybrid cars still need oil changes and tire rotations, but they don't need them any more frequently than other cars.

People shopping for hybrids are sometimes concerned that because hybrid technology is new, they will only be able to get their hybrid cars serviced at an expensive dealership. Most of the components of a hybrid vehicle are the same as a gasoline-only car, so independent mechanics are able to do most of the work on hybrids. As these cars are becoming more popular, many mechanics are also seeking out classes on hybrid technology.

Myth #5: Hybrid cars contain expensive batteries that need to be replaced often.

It's true that the batteries in hybrid cars cost a lot to replace. If you've voided your warranty by neglecting your car, then a new battery pack will cost between $2000 and $4000. However, the batteries are designed to last the life of the car, and won't need to be replaced frequently.

Manufacturers of hybrid cars understand that consumers are wary about the battery technology, and are offering warranties that show their confidence. Warranties on the batteries for hybrid cars last up to ten years or 100,000 miles, so consumers shouldn't have to worry about replacing the batteries in their hybrid cars.

Myth #6: Drivers of hybrid cars have to change their driving habits.

While driving an environmentally friendly car may make a person feel like taking up yoga or eating hummus, it won't make a driver have to change his or her habits. Hybrid cars are designed to be driven just like any other cars. They accelerate, handle, and brake in the same way that traditional cars do. Drivers shouldn't notice a difference.

Myth #7: Hybrid cars will soon be replaced by fuel-cell technology.

Some people are holding off on buying a hybrid, thinking that their twentieth century clunker will get them by until fuel cell cars roll off the assembly lines in the next year or two. While hydrogen fuel cell technology is far superior to hybrid technology, and is expected to produce zero emission vehicles that don't require gasoline, fuel cell cars are still a long way off. Manufacturers are starting to experiment with fuel cell designs, but these cars won't be available to consumers for at least another 10 years.

Myth #8: Hybrid cars are prohibitively expensive.

It's true that hybrid cars are more costly than similar models powered only by gas. But, while initial cost may be higher for hybrid cars, there are some important savings to consider. Many hybrids are eligible for the "clean fuel" federal tax deduction. The 2005 deduction for cars on the IRS list is $2000. While the deduction is scheduled to be phased out in the next few years, lawmakers are scheduled to review the deduction and may decide to extend it.

The cost of gasoline can also help offset the initial cost of a hybrid vehicle. If gas prices stay where they are, hybrid drivers can expect to break even on their purchase over the life of the car. If gas prices continue to rise, then the reduced cost of gasoline may make hybrid cars cheaper over the long run.

Hybrid car manufacturers are also trying to compensate for the higher price tags on hybrid cars by including as standard some of the most popular options. Having the upgraded stereo and a swanky interior can be a nice bonus for the eco-conscious consumer.