Can an automobile pay for itself? Can buying a new vehicle “make” you money? The new half gas, half battery-operated hybrid machines pose these economical questions. With an EPA Fuel Economy Ratings that exceeds 50 miles per gallon both on and off the highway, you should at least consider purchasing one right now. You may even be eligible for a tax deduction due to the hybrid’s low, environmentally pleasing emission.
The only minor drawbacks to these gas sippers seem to be their exterior designs and $20,000 price tag, but this is changing. Because the term “hybrid” refers only to the way an engine functions, the newer hybrids have become spitting replicas of existing stylistic models. And it may not be long before the first hybrid Corvettes and Mustangs begin ripping through your neighborhood.
Driving your car:
If you’re the type of person who can’t cut back on driving, maybe you can change the way in which you drive. Your car gets better gas mileage at 55 than 65, 65 than 75, and so on. Unless you’re passing or in an emergency, keep your lead foot under control. The more constant your speed, the less energy your engine uses to run smoothly.
Gradually increasing your speed from a stopped position and gradually decreasing your speed as you approach a red light or stop sign will save you mileage, as well as using cruise control on the highway or interstate. Avoid idling, the worst usage of gasoline, and instead of using drive-through windows at your local fast food restaurant, park the car and order inside. Refrain from excessive warm-ups in the winter and full-blast air conditioning in the summer. Open convertible tops, lowered windows and moon roofs accumulate air pressure that causes your engine to fight a little bit harder—if you can bear it, bear it.
While you may not be able to dispense of all these habits, the more you’re able to break, the more you’re going to save.