High Gas Prices Have More People Turning To Hybrid Cars March 2005

Some are looking for a way to combat rising gas prices, and they're turning to hybrid vehicles.

As of Wednesday morning, the average price in Nebraska for a gallon of regular unleaded gas is $2.04. It's expected to increase to record levels by summer.

Hybrids sounds like a great way to save money, not only on better gas mileage, but also on a tax deduction. In 2004 and 2005, hybrid drivers are eligible for a $2,000 tax deduction. In 2006, the deduction drops to $500. The deduction is scheduled to go away after 2006. Find out more at IRS.gov.

At Toyota dealerships in Omaha, the Toyota Prius hybrid has a year-long waiting list. Toyota only produces so many of the cars. Bellevue Toyota has sold about 60 of the cars.

"This car isn't only about gas savings, it's about how environmentally friendly this car is," said Bellevue Toyota's Ed Fisher. "It's the ultra-low emissions that it uses. And if you are only buying this car to save money, you have to do the math. You may find this car is not for you."

Dealers suggest that before a buyer jumps into the hybrid market, there are a number of factors to consider. What type of driver are you? The Prius is designed to get its best gas mileage in the city. For highway driving, a fuel efficient full gasoline car may be a better option.

The base price for a four-door Prius is a little more than $20,000. A top-of-the-line Toyota Corolla is less than $18,000.

The Prius gets 60 miles to the gallon in the city, 51 on the highway.

Honda makes the Accord, Civic and Insight as hybrid vehicles.

There are a few SUV hybrids available, including the Ford Escape. The Lexus RX, Toyota Highlander and Mercury Mariner are expected this year. Saturn will release its VUE SUV next year. Hybrid versions of the Chevrolet Tahoe, Dodge Durango, GMC Yukon and Toyota Sienna minivan are expected on the market in 2007.

Dodge and GM expect to release pickup trucks in a hybrid version this year.

SOURCE: The Omaha Channel

Hybrid Car Links

Hybrid Cars

What are Hybrid Cars

Hybrid Car Pros & Cons

How Hybrid Car Works

Hybrid Car History

Future Hybrid Cars

Advantages Of Hybrid Cars

Disadvantages Of Hybrid Cars

Hybrid Sports Cars

Hybrid Car FAQs

Hybrid Car Facts