For over a century, vehicles have been powered with a finite energy source. Naturally, conservative-minded individuals have been hard at work for decades addressing the concerns that arise from a global dependence on oil. Hybrid vehicles are becoming a popular alternative to traditional cars by supplementing a vehicle’s need for gasoline with electricity to help mitigate fuel costs. Around 2,180,000 hybrid vehicles were sold in the U.S. in 2012; around 209,216 of which were Honda Civic hybrid models. Here are some facts for those considering investing in a Civic or any other hybrid vehicle.
Eco-Friendly and Fuel Efficient
The principal motivation to switch to a hybrid model is fuel savings; hybrids are an estimated 20% to 35% more fuel efficient than traditional gas powered vehicles on average. Since they are not fully dependent on electricity, hybrid models run off of a gasoline power source but uses an additional electric power source — this helps to conserve gasoline while simultaneously reducing the amount of harmful emissions being produced by the vehicle. Some estimates suggest that a hybrid vehicle emits 25% to 35% fewer emissions than a traditional vehicle; hybrids could help to create a cleaner future for all of us.
The Perks of a Hybrid
Aside from the direct savings one will receive at the pump, there are certain perks that come with owning a hybrid. A growing number of insurance companies offer discounts to those who drive hybrid vehicles, as research suggests that such individuals are less likely to be involved in an accident statistically. The United States government itself incentivizes hybrid vehicle owners as well by offering tax incentives that can help drives save up to $3,400 in taxes. Although hybrids are typically 20% more expensive than traditional cars, many hybrid owners see the decreased fuel costs, savings on insurance, and tax incentives as a justification for the increased price.
Hybrid Car Battery Replacement
Perhaps the largest issue that first-time hybrid buyers ought to familiarize themselves with is the integrated motor assist (IMA) battery. Hybrid battery packs do not typically outlast the car, so most hybrid owners will need to repair or replace their IMA battery at some point. A Honda Civic hybrid IMA battery costs more than a traditional car battery would because of the added role the battery plays in a hybrid vehicle: a Honda Civic hybrid IMA battery costs around $3,000 to $4,000 on average in the United States. Although a Honda Civic hybrid IMA battery costs a fairly large chunk of change, most hybrid vehicle batteries come with an eight year/100,000 mile warranty. Research does suggest that a IMA battery can last as long as 10 years but it could last as little as six years as well. Hybrid owners ought to also consider the need to regularly charge their batteries; although some would consider this an added expense, hybrid vehicles use a regenerative charge that uses the kinetic energy from braking to produce a portion of energy that can be charged back into the battery. After weighing all of the factors, only you can decide if a Honda Civic or some other hybrid vehicle model is right for your future.
