The pros and cons of hybrid cars

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As the country and much of the world grows more environmentally conscious, much of the focus has turned toward the automobile industry. By the end of this month, General Motors, which began accepting billions of dollars in government bailout money at the turn of the calendar year, is reportedly required to submit documentation to the White House that details its plan to return to profitability.

For those who closely observe the auto industry and even those who don't, the consensus seems to be that the plan should include producing vehicles that are more environmentally friendly, and reducing the production of larger vehicles, such as sport utility vehicles (SUVs), that many feel are what put GM in the position they found themselves in by the end of 2008. But are hybrids for everyone? To better answer that question, it's best to consider the pros and cons of hybrid cars.

Advantages to Hybrids

In addition to being more beneficial to the environment, hybrid cars boast other advantages as well.

• Better fuel economy: While fuel economy is obviously an environmental benefit, it's also a financial one. As 2008 drew to a close and 2009 began, fuel prices were sinking. However, that's a trend that many financial forecasters expect to change as the year goes on. In the United States, for example, the recession has led to a decreased demand for oil, lowering the price. The Energy Information Administration has projected crude oil prices to remain relatively low in 2009, which in turn will keep gasoline prices low as well. However, according to Paul Stevens, a professor at the Royal Institute of International Affairs in the United Kingdom, that decrease in demand could also lead to a reduction in output, which could eventually send gas prices back over $2 per gallon and possibly close to $3 per gallon by the end of the year.

So how does this relate to hybrids? Should gas prices rise once again by the end of year, the fuel economy hybrids offer will no doubt appeal to more drivers looking to save money.

• Increased availability: A criticism many drivers had of hybrid cars was that they were not nearly as readily available as traditional gas-powered vehicles. However, with the auto industry bailouts, many expect the American automakers receiving those bailouts to focus on remaking their image and entering the hybrid market. That figures to make hybrid cars more available to buyers, which could in turn bring down their price tag as well.

• Possible discounts for purchase: While government-sponsored incentives for purchasing hybrid vehicles may or may not be available any longer, that does not necessarily mean there aren't discounts available to drivers for purchasing hybrids. Some insurance companies, for example, offer owners of hybrids discounts on their premiums. While this might not be the case with all companies, it's certainly worth researching before buying your next vehicle.

Disadvantages to Hybrids

Like anything, hybrid cars are not perfect. Though they do boast numerous advantages, they also have their disadvantages prospective buyers should be aware of.

• Sticker price: Should American automakers begin to produce more hybrids, the sticker prices for hybrids could possibly decrease as the market is filled with more options. However, until that happens, hybrid models remain significantly more expensive than their gas-powered counterparts. For example, according to Honda's Web site, a 2009 gas-powered Honda Civic sedan has a base price of $15,505. The same model Civic sedan hybrid has a base price of $23,650.

• Gas: While fuel economy for hybrids is generally great, that's typically only for city driving. That's because highway driving does not offer the same benefits, as the gas engine takes over when vehicles approach higher speeds. The gas engine also takes over as vehicles accelerate quickly, which could minimize the benefits for aggressive drivers.

While research continues to advance the viability of hybrids, it's important for prospective buyers to consider both the pros and cons of hybrids before making a final decision on their next vehicle.