Heading Toward Hybrid March 2005

Out-of-Gas writes "While a 22-cent hike in the price per gallon of unleaded gasoline shocked and frustrated most area motorists, other people were not as bothered by the increases. They have taken matters into their own hands.

From initiating special gas programs to driving electrical powered vehicles, Placer County residents are fighting back by limiting their demand for gas.

The gasoline-electric hybrid vehicles have become a popular solution. Even GMC has jumped on the bandwagon of designing a half fuel-operated, half electrical-powered vehicle that claims to be more eco-friendly and require less gas.

The GMC Sierra Hybrid is the first truck in the integrated line. Honda and Toyota are the acknowledged hybrid leaders, offering more sporty models, while Ford has designed an SUV.

Many hybrids average 20 to 30 miles per gallon more than standard vehicles, and, pending state legislature, could be allowed to use the carpool lanes in the near future.

More and more people are taking advantage of this technology. According to AAA of Northern California, this could pay off since gas prices have not yet leveled out.

"The cost of gasoline is going up almost every day," said Sean Comey, spokesman for AAA of Northern California. "Most communities have seen their average price increase by 35 cents per gallon or more since January."

According to AAA, California's statewide average price of a gallon of regular unleaded gasoline now stands at $2.31.

Maybe because Placer County is so close to South Lake Tahoe, where the most expensive gas is being sold in the state for an average of $2.43 a gallon, that county officials decided to attack the fluctuating costs head on.

"We have concerns with gas prices just as every business does, but I think we've prepared ourselves." said Dennis Gage, the fleet services manager for the Placer County Public Works Department.

In addition to a very aggressive gas program, including the use of natural gas, which cuts the cost and use of fuel, Gage said the county also uses five hybrid Honda Civics and is in the works to get at least eight more hybrid cars.

The county also uses a dozen Neighborhood Electric Vehicles, or electric runabouts as Gage calls them, which are similar to a golf cart and used by county department's for quick trips.

He said these vehicles are allowed on roads with speed limits of 35 mph and lower and are commonly used to get from building to building at the Dewitt Center in Auburn.

"Our paper delivery guy uses one, the Sheriff's Department uses them to go from the department to the jail, and the district attorney uses it to run to court," Gage said. "They're used for those kinds of things."

After gas prices first started breaking the charts price-wise, Gage said the county also purchased one electric car. However, it's not used very often.

"We have a number of things going on to address the fuel costs," he said. "Most have been very successful. The only thing I can think of that was not successful was having an electrical vehicle."

Roseville resident Inez Rosenthal and Browns Valley resident Kay Smith said they're currently in the market for a hybrid.

"I've already started looking at the Ford model, but I have yet to get in and drive it," Smith said. "I commute from Browns Valley to Roseville to visit my grandkids down here. I have a Ford Taurus, but another 20 miles per gallon - that would be great."

Cutting back on the amount of driving a person does is also a route people are taking.

Gage said that's part of the reason why Placer County Transit started using natural gas in the buses that run in the Tahoe and Auburn areas.

Although several of the backup buses still use diesel, Gage said all the primary vehicles currently run on natural gas.

The county, as well as many area businesses, have also started setting aside extra funds to use when gas prices rise. Gage said this allows business to continue with no hike in fees.

"If it gets to $4 a gallon, then we have a different story," Gage said.

As of Tuesday afternoon, Sacramento's average gas price was listed at $2.19. In Roseville and Granite Bay, drivers were paying between $2.15, offered at places like Arco and AM/PM, to around $2.25, at locations like Chevron.

"At times like this, it's important for drivers to know how they can save money on fuel," Comey said. "Avoid mid-grade and premium fuel unless your owners' manual says your car needs it. Pay attention to prices at your local gas stations so you know who's offering the best value, and make sure your tires are properly inflated and keep your engine well maintained."

SOURCE: Press Tribune"