Identification

• Gas-electric cars are those that use light fuel-efficient gasoline engines in combination with an electric motor that periodically augments the output of the engine. The electric motor is run by batteries that recharge automatically while the car drives. Most gas-electric cars are called hybrids and will usually be marked as such somewhere on the body.
  
  

Features

• The smaller and efficient engines is a major factor in a gas-electric car's overall performance. In addition to its inherent efficiency, increased fuel economy is obtained by allowing the electric motor to power the vehicle when the higher performance of the combustion engine is not required, such as at traffic lights. This feature is called periodic engine shut off. Hybrid vehicles also rely on regenerative braking, a system that allows the electric motor to act as a generator and charge its batteries while the car is slowed. Of course, an aerodynamic chassis made of lightweight material also contributes to the overall fuel efficiency.
  
  

The Facts

• Hybrid cars are relatively new in the U.S., but have been available in Japan since 1997. The history of gas-electric cars in this foreign market refute the concerns of some who think that hybrid cars as durable as as other cars. In fact, it is not unheard of for a gas-electric vehicle to operate just fine well past 250,000 miles without any more maintenance than regular gasoline cars.
  
  

Significance

• The Toyota Prius has been proven to produce 90 percent fewer pollutants than comparable non-hybrid vehicles. This was the original selling-point for the environmentally sensitive and continues to sustain the gas-electric car market. Others are less concerned with the reduced pollution and prefer the cost-saving fuel efficiency.
  
  

Types

• The first two gas-electric cars to become popular in the US were the Insight and the Prius, and these models continue to dominate the hybrid vehicle market. The 2009 line of offerings, however, offered something for nearly every car buyer. Many manufacturers have put gas-electric versions of familiar models in the dealerships, including the Honda Civic, Ford Escape, Ford Fusion, Mercury Milan, Mercury Mariner, and Chevrolet Malibu, all of which had hybrid versions in 2009. Meanwhile, high-end buyers had a look at Mercedes S-Class and Lexus HS 250h hybrids. The Fisker Karma, which boasts 0-60 mph in less than six seconds, with a top speed of 125 mph, provided a hybrid option in the premium sports sedan market.
  
  

Benefits

• The United States government supports hybrid car ownership by allowing a tax write off. In 2005, the rebate was as high as $5000 for some buyers. In addition to this immediate savings, gas-electric cars retain their value much better than standard gasoline cars, partly because demand for the cars outstrips supply, but also because the cars are very durable. And though there are some expensive components in hybrid cars, like the batteries and electric motor, most are sold with comprehensive warranties with free replacement of these parts.