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.