[akboss]

Good post to Hardrockhillbilly, interesting numbers. But don't believe all the statistics you find about batteries wearing out - there are a lot of consumers that are uneasy about the technology and are resistant to change, and just plain don't like the idea. It's a legitimate concern and something everyone in the market for a hybrid should independently research, but from what I've come across from valid sources, the batteries are the most reliable part of the car. Toyota warrants the hybrid drivetrain in their Prius model for 8 years or 160,000 Kms - and that's not the lifecycle, just the warranty. Read this quote from ConsumerGuide automotive:

"Toyota claims that not one has required a battery replacement due to malfunction or "wearing out." The only replacement batteries sold--at the retail price of $3000--have been for cars that were involved in accidents. Toyota further claims that the nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) battery packs used in all Prius models are expected to last the life of the car with very little to no degradation in power capability."

As we can look at a laptop from 3 years ago and look at one today, the difference in technology is vast - you may say they both run Windows, but beneath that it's completely new. Same with batteries. Because it is such a growth market people are investing in R&D like crazy, millions are spent daily to create better, more efficient, more reliable batteries. What was once a Nickel metal-hydride battery is now a more powerful and efficient lithium ion that weighs half as much.

But, while I am a supporter of living responsibly, I don't think hybrids are the answer. You are correct in saying the costs may not be in the favour of the buyer, and again hybrid buyers are typically aware of that. But you have to take into account your type of driving. I live in Canada where our winters are cold and sub-zero for 4-5 months of the year. A hybrid is less efficient in cold temperatures, and the further north you go I would imagine the less it would be efficient. I also do a lot of highway/80+ km/h driving, where the electric motor is usually idle or in support but the car is being primarily powered by the gas motor.

I have also read studies that say, dollar for dollar, you are much better off to put your money into other eco-friendly initiatives to truly benefit the environment. Buying 'carbon offset credit' goes a lot further than driving a hybrid. For less than the cost of opting for the hybrid model, you can purchase enough carbon offsets to replace your entire carbon footprint, including car, home, and leisure/travel. Sounds silly but it's true. Hybrids are a statement for change rather than anything truly beneficial. In my opinion, they are boring to drive and more often than not ugly. Driving should be fun - give me an efficient turbo-4 and I'll buy some carbon credits and end up being more 'eco-friendly' in the end.