With the recent spikes in summer gas prices, there is no doubt that drivers are growing angry and seeking alternatives. But let’s face it: bike-riding isn’t always the best way to make that 30-mile commute to work. So what’s next?  

Each day, some of the major automobile manufacturers across the country are researching and investing in the technology to produce hybrid vehicles. Though there is a high demand to meet (as gas prices don’t seem to lowering any time soon), manufacturers have clearly sent the message to the public that they are offering serviceable automobiles at semi-affordable prices to combat the horrendous cost of fuel. In case you didn’t know, actress/environmentalist Cameron Diaz does drive one. 

But what incentive do consumers have to purchase these modernized vehicles? For one, they are extremely beneficial to the environment, as they do not emit nearly as many contaminants into the air. These contaminants include carbon dioxide, nitrogen, and benzene. If you have ever wondered about the leading causes of the depletion of our ozone layer, you may want to consider the pollutants that fuel-powered vehicles emit.  These contaminants are also the primary reason that we have faced significant global warming. Aside from the skin diseases caused by the depletion of the earth’s ozone layer, these toxins are disrupting Mother Nature’s weather pattern.

In addition, the government currently offers incentives to those who do purchase hybrid-powered vehicles. Rebates of up to $2,000 are given to those who purchase or lease some of the new hybrid vehicles on the market. Since the hybrids utilize significantly less fuel (and more electric power), they are known to be very environment-friendly. However, some of the new vehicles can be a bit pricey, as the batteries that operate these machines require much technological input. These batteries actually charge themselves while the driver is on the road, thus eliminating fuel as the primary energy source.

Toyota, one of the leading hybrid manufacturers, recently hit a milestone by selling its one-millionth hybrid vehicle. This has come just almost a decade after the company released its first model, the Prius, back in 1997. Not surprisingly, Toyota sales of hybrids have increased significantly since 1998 from 18,000 to well over 300,000 this past year (http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/19088667/). These statistics clearly demonstrate a correlation between rising gas prices and consumer demand.

Is a hybrid right for you? As far as cost is concerned, on average they are roughly $3,000 more than regular fuel-powered vehicles. However, investing in a vehicle that qualifies for a government rebate can offset this cost. Insurance companies are also beginning to offer discounts to customers who own hybrid vehicles. As far as gas savings are concerned, hybrids are said to average roughly 30-50 miles/gallon in the city, which is notably significant (http://www.edmunds.com/advice/fueleconomy/articles/103708/article.html).  Unquestionably, choosing to invest in a hybrid is not easy, as there are numerous factors to consider. However, if at all in doubt, just remember that Cameron Diaz did not hesitate.

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