The IRS certified GM and Nissan have not hit the 60,000 unit limit on sales for the tax credit phase out period to begin today.
Toyota is almost at the end of their phase out, and Honda will most likely hit their limit in August or September this year, triggering their phase out.
The federal tax credit has a complicated system in place to limit the number of consumers who can claim the credit. Those who buy qualifying vehicles may claim the full tax credit (the amount varies by model) up to the end of the first quarter after the quarter in which the manufacturer records the sale of its 60,000th qualified vehicle. For the second and third quarters after the quarter in which the limit is reached, the credit is cut in half. Two quarters after that, the credit is cut in half again (so it is one quarter of the full credit amount). After two more quarters pass, the credit is phased out completely.
The phase out period was intended as a domestic incentive policy, since it was known right from the beginning that domestic automakers would be likely to hit the limit later than Toyota or Honda.
Toyota
Toyota triggered the phase out period back in June, 2006. Which means anyone buying a Toyota or Lexus hybrid today may only claim one fourth of the full tax credit, and that's only if they qualify. If you buy from Toyota after September 30, 2007, you will not be able to claim any credit.
Nissan, Ford and GM
According to the IRS, GM sold 2,927 qualifying vehicles in the first quarter bringing their total up to 8,485 units. Nissan sold 2,094 units in the first quarter. Ford, according to my spreadsheet, has sold just over 30,000 units since January of 2006. So, none of the three automakers are likely to hit the 60,000 unit limit any time soon.
Honda Will Soon Hit the Federal Tax Credit Limit
Honda has sold over 48,000 units since January of 2006. At their current rate of sales, they will hit the 60,000 limit in another 4 months or so. If they do so, the IRS will trigger their phase out in October of 2007. And, if I'm keeping this all straight, that means their credits will be cut in half in January, 2008.
Tuesday, 8 May 2007
Honda is Next
The IRS certified GM and Nissan have not hit the 60,000 unit limit on sales for the tax credit phase out period to begin today.
Toyota is almost at the end of their phase out, and Honda will most likely hit their limit in August or September this year, triggering their phase out.
The federal tax credit has a complicated system in place to limit the number of consumers who can claim the credit. Those who buy qualifying vehicles may claim the full tax credit (the amount varies by model) up to the end of the first quarter after the quarter in which the manufacturer records the sale of its 60,000th qualified vehicle. For the second and third quarters after the quarter in which the limit is reached, the credit is cut in half. Two quarters after that, the credit is cut in half again (so it is one quarter of the full credit amount). After two more quarters pass, the credit is phased out completely.
The phase out period was intended as a domestic incentive policy, since it was known right from the beginning that domestic automakers would be likely to hit the limit later than Toyota or Honda.
Toyota
Toyota triggered the phase out period back in June, 2006. Which means anyone buying a Toyota or Lexus hybrid today may only claim one fourth of the full tax credit, and that's only if they qualify. If you buy from Toyota after September 30, 2007, you will not be able to claim any credit.
Nissan, Ford and GM
According to the IRS, GM sold 2,927 qualifying vehicles in the first quarter bringing their total up to 8,485 units. Nissan sold 2,094 units in the first quarter. Ford, according to my spreadsheet, has sold just over 30,000 units since January of 2006. So, none of the three automakers are likely to hit the 60,000 unit limit any time soon.
Honda Will Soon Hit the Federal Tax Credit Limit
Honda has sold over 48,000 units since January of 2006. At their current rate of sales, they will hit the 60,000 limit in another 4 months or so. If they do so, the IRS will trigger their phase out in October of 2007. And, if I'm keeping this all straight, that means their credits will be cut in half in January, 2008.
Toyota is almost at the end of their phase out, and Honda will most likely hit their limit in August or September this year, triggering their phase out.
The federal tax credit has a complicated system in place to limit the number of consumers who can claim the credit. Those who buy qualifying vehicles may claim the full tax credit (the amount varies by model) up to the end of the first quarter after the quarter in which the manufacturer records the sale of its 60,000th qualified vehicle. For the second and third quarters after the quarter in which the limit is reached, the credit is cut in half. Two quarters after that, the credit is cut in half again (so it is one quarter of the full credit amount). After two more quarters pass, the credit is phased out completely.
The phase out period was intended as a domestic incentive policy, since it was known right from the beginning that domestic automakers would be likely to hit the limit later than Toyota or Honda.
Toyota
Toyota triggered the phase out period back in June, 2006. Which means anyone buying a Toyota or Lexus hybrid today may only claim one fourth of the full tax credit, and that's only if they qualify. If you buy from Toyota after September 30, 2007, you will not be able to claim any credit.
Nissan, Ford and GM
According to the IRS, GM sold 2,927 qualifying vehicles in the first quarter bringing their total up to 8,485 units. Nissan sold 2,094 units in the first quarter. Ford, according to my spreadsheet, has sold just over 30,000 units since January of 2006. So, none of the three automakers are likely to hit the 60,000 unit limit any time soon.
Honda Will Soon Hit the Federal Tax Credit Limit
Honda has sold over 48,000 units since January of 2006. At their current rate of sales, they will hit the 60,000 limit in another 4 months or so. If they do so, the IRS will trigger their phase out in October of 2007. And, if I'm keeping this all straight, that means their credits will be cut in half in January, 2008.
Monday, 7 May 2007
Hybrid Electric Cars -- The Top Five
While there is a lot of buzz surrounding hybrid electric cars right now, there seems to be a lot of misinformation relating to them, as well. I'll be trying to guide you through some of that I as I talk about the top five hybrid electric vehicles (HEV) that are available today.
The Five Best Hybrid Cars
1) The Toyota Prius
The Toyota Prius is the best hybrid car. As of right now, half of all hybrids sold are Prius and there are many reasons for that. Most hybrids today look like and act like regular gas-only cars. The only way you can tell most hybrids are hybrids is by the badging automakers put on the sides and rear paneling. Not so with the Prius.
Its unique design, has been harshly criticized by consumers who think it is just ugly. But the truth is the design is not there to please the eye. The lines and shape are designed to help the Prius cut through the air, thereby giving it the best fuel economy possible. A midsize sedan capable of 55 mpg combined, the Prius will only cost less to run than most sub-compacts. That high mileage rating gives the Prius the lowest emissions rating. According to fueleconomy.gov, the Prius emits only 3.5 tons of greenhouse gas each year and it's regularly awarded top honors when the 'Green' awards are presented.
2) Honda Civic Hybrid
At a combined 50 mpg, the Honda Civic Hybrid gives the Prius a run for its money. But it is smaller (the Civic is a compact) and not as distinctive as the Prius. And so, just driving down the street won't announce your attempt to save the world as loudly as if you were buying a Prius. And the sales reflect that.
The only issues Honda has with the Civic Electric Hybrid is its size and the inevitable comparison. There's not much Honda can do about the size. Although the Prius is not much bigger and it has that weird shape, the Civic is smaller. Since the Prius gets better fuel economy, it also emits fewer greenhouse gases. And so the Civic suffers in comparison to the its hybrid competition. Not only that, but its next closest rival is usually sitting right next to it on the lot. Many times, consumers will switch to the gas only hybrid Civic because it is cheaper and because it already gets great gas mileage. Honda has announced it will be producing a hybrid only vehicle in an effort to compete.
Put it all together and you get the second best hybrid car.
3a and 3b) Nissan Altima Electric Hybrid and Toyota Camry Electric Hybrid
The Nissan Altima Hybrid Electric Car is a great hybrid. Not only is the Altima a fun car to drive, it also comes with Toyotas Hybrid Synergy Drive which has been proven to be reliable. But therein lies the rub for Nissan. Since it does not have its own hybrid technology, yet, they claim they lose money on each hybrid sold. They have promised a hybrid car of their own by the next decade, but in the meantime, they are very reluctant to sell hybrids at all.
And so Nissan has limited sales of its lone hybrid to just eight states. The pr statement says they are limiting sales to those states with the most interest in hybrids. What comes closer to the truth is the Altima Hybrid Electric Car is being sold in only those states with the highest emissions rating.
But the Altima Hybrid is a great hybrid to own. It gets a combined 39 mpg and has a huge gas tank (20.0 gallons) which means you can go 702 miles between fill-ups. Its also rated just above the Toyota Camry Hybrid in greenhouse gas emissions.
Which brings us to the Toyota Camry Hybrid. The Camry is one of the top selling vehicles on the planet. The Camry Hybrid became the second most popular hybrid on the road almost immediately on its release. And it's not hard to see why. The Camry Hybrid also gets 39 mpg combined. Unlike the Prius, it does not come in that weird shape. And unlike the Civic, its not a compact. More room inside (not a lot more room, but enough to make you comfortable) and more room in the trunk means the Camry Hybrid, like the Nissan Altima Hybrid, are more practical choices than the Civic Hybrid. So, if you don't mind sacrificing some fuel economy for comfort, but don't want that funky shape, the Camry or Altima Hybrid Electric Cars could be just right for you.
5) Ford Escape Hybrid
Number 5 is actually hard to pick. There are several other HEVs available including Saturns Aura and Vue Greenline, the Lexus GS 450h, RX 400h and the Toyota Highlander Hybrid. But the Escape Hybrid comes at a more reasonable price than the Lexus or Highlander Hybrids, while getting the best combined mpg (34 for FWD and 31 for 4WD) of the hybrid SUVs available today. The Saturn Hybrid Electric vehicles are termed mild hybrids, and as such are incapable of powering the vehicle on electric power alone.
The Ford Escape Electric Hybrid is a SUV hybrid. That gives it more room and gives the driver more options for those who are just interested in a sedan. While not as popular as the Highlander Hybrid, the Escape is a compact SUV that strives to get the most it can. The 2008 model is a big step up in terms of noise control and other features, while costing less than it used to. And if you want some luxury options, you could always upgrade to the Mercury Mariner Hybrid. The Escape and Mariner are basically the same vehicles, Mercury is just the luxury brand.
So, there you go. Those are my top five best hybrid cars. My ratings are based on my personal feelings, sales figures, dimensions, and probably most importantly, fuel economy. I don't believe hybrids would be as popular right now if gas prices weren't rising so dramatically. Despite the 'green' aspects involved (hybrids are usually at the front of the line when it comes to emissions ratings), its gasoline costs that are on the minds of most consumers today.
I won't go into any details, but here are some last pieces of information I have detailed elsewhere when it comes to looking into hybrid electric cars.
The Five Best Hybrid Cars
1) The Toyota Prius
The Toyota Prius is the best hybrid car. As of right now, half of all hybrids sold are Prius and there are many reasons for that. Most hybrids today look like and act like regular gas-only cars. The only way you can tell most hybrids are hybrids is by the badging automakers put on the sides and rear paneling. Not so with the Prius.
Its unique design, has been harshly criticized by consumers who think it is just ugly. But the truth is the design is not there to please the eye. The lines and shape are designed to help the Prius cut through the air, thereby giving it the best fuel economy possible. A midsize sedan capable of 55 mpg combined, the Prius will only cost less to run than most sub-compacts. That high mileage rating gives the Prius the lowest emissions rating. According to fueleconomy.gov, the Prius emits only 3.5 tons of greenhouse gas each year and it's regularly awarded top honors when the 'Green' awards are presented.
2) Honda Civic Hybrid
At a combined 50 mpg, the Honda Civic Hybrid gives the Prius a run for its money. But it is smaller (the Civic is a compact) and not as distinctive as the Prius. And so, just driving down the street won't announce your attempt to save the world as loudly as if you were buying a Prius. And the sales reflect that.
The only issues Honda has with the Civic Electric Hybrid is its size and the inevitable comparison. There's not much Honda can do about the size. Although the Prius is not much bigger and it has that weird shape, the Civic is smaller. Since the Prius gets better fuel economy, it also emits fewer greenhouse gases. And so the Civic suffers in comparison to the its hybrid competition. Not only that, but its next closest rival is usually sitting right next to it on the lot. Many times, consumers will switch to the gas only hybrid Civic because it is cheaper and because it already gets great gas mileage. Honda has announced it will be producing a hybrid only vehicle in an effort to compete.
Put it all together and you get the second best hybrid car.
3a and 3b) Nissan Altima Electric Hybrid and Toyota Camry Electric Hybrid
The Nissan Altima Hybrid Electric Car is a great hybrid. Not only is the Altima a fun car to drive, it also comes with Toyotas Hybrid Synergy Drive which has been proven to be reliable. But therein lies the rub for Nissan. Since it does not have its own hybrid technology, yet, they claim they lose money on each hybrid sold. They have promised a hybrid car of their own by the next decade, but in the meantime, they are very reluctant to sell hybrids at all.
And so Nissan has limited sales of its lone hybrid to just eight states. The pr statement says they are limiting sales to those states with the most interest in hybrids. What comes closer to the truth is the Altima Hybrid Electric Car is being sold in only those states with the highest emissions rating.
But the Altima Hybrid is a great hybrid to own. It gets a combined 39 mpg and has a huge gas tank (20.0 gallons) which means you can go 702 miles between fill-ups. Its also rated just above the Toyota Camry Hybrid in greenhouse gas emissions.
Which brings us to the Toyota Camry Hybrid. The Camry is one of the top selling vehicles on the planet. The Camry Hybrid became the second most popular hybrid on the road almost immediately on its release. And it's not hard to see why. The Camry Hybrid also gets 39 mpg combined. Unlike the Prius, it does not come in that weird shape. And unlike the Civic, its not a compact. More room inside (not a lot more room, but enough to make you comfortable) and more room in the trunk means the Camry Hybrid, like the Nissan Altima Hybrid, are more practical choices than the Civic Hybrid. So, if you don't mind sacrificing some fuel economy for comfort, but don't want that funky shape, the Camry or Altima Hybrid Electric Cars could be just right for you.5) Ford Escape Hybrid
Number 5 is actually hard to pick. There are several other HEVs available including Saturns Aura and Vue Greenline, the Lexus GS 450h, RX 400h and the Toyota Highlander Hybrid. But the Escape Hybrid comes at a more reasonable price than the Lexus or Highlander Hybrids, while getting the best combined mpg (34 for FWD and 31 for 4WD) of the hybrid SUVs available today. The Saturn Hybrid Electric vehicles are termed mild hybrids, and as such are incapable of powering the vehicle on electric power alone.
The Ford Escape Electric Hybrid is a SUV hybrid. That gives it more room and gives the driver more options for those who are just interested in a sedan. While not as popular as the Highlander Hybrid, the Escape is a compact SUV that strives to get the most it can. The 2008 model is a big step up in terms of noise control and other features, while costing less than it used to. And if you want some luxury options, you could always upgrade to the Mercury Mariner Hybrid. The Escape and Mariner are basically the same vehicles, Mercury is just the luxury brand.
So, there you go. Those are my top five best hybrid cars. My ratings are based on my personal feelings, sales figures, dimensions, and probably most importantly, fuel economy. I don't believe hybrids would be as popular right now if gas prices weren't rising so dramatically. Despite the 'green' aspects involved (hybrids are usually at the front of the line when it comes to emissions ratings), its gasoline costs that are on the minds of most consumers today.
I won't go into any details, but here are some last pieces of information I have detailed elsewhere when it comes to looking into hybrid electric cars.
- You will save money in the long run (average of 3 to 5 years depending on the model) depending on how many miles you drive annually.
- Federal tax credits are nice, but now that they are phasing out for Toyota Hybrids, you may be able to get a deal.
- Some states offer rebates of their own. There are also some local perks to driving hybrids including solo access to HOV lanes and free parking.
- Some insurance companies will offer lower rates to hybrid car owners.
- If you don't mind driving a compact or subcompact, they may be a better deal for you. Anything larger than that and you should consider hybrids for their fuel savings if nothing else.
Hybrid Electric Cars -- The Top Five
While there is a lot of buzz surrounding hybrid electric cars right now, there seems to be a lot of misinformation relating to them, as well. I'll be trying to guide you through some of that I as I talk about the top five hybrid electric vehicles (HEV) that are available today.
The Five Best Hybrid Cars
1) The Toyota Prius
The Toyota Prius is the best hybrid car. As of right now, half of all hybrids sold are Prius and there are many reasons for that. Most hybrids today look like and act like regular gas-only cars. The only way you can tell most hybrids are hybrids is by the badging automakers put on the sides and rear paneling. Not so with the Prius.
Its unique design, has been harshly criticized by consumers who think it is just ugly. But the truth is the design is not there to please the eye. The lines and shape are designed to help the Prius cut through the air, thereby giving it the best fuel economy possible. A midsize sedan capable of 55 mpg combined, the Prius will only cost less to run than most sub-compacts. That high mileage rating gives the Prius the lowest emissions rating. According to fueleconomy.gov, the Prius emits only 3.5 tons of greenhouse gas each year and it's regularly awarded top honors when the 'Green' awards are presented.
2) Honda Civic Hybrid
At a combined 50 mpg, the Honda Civic Hybrid gives the Prius a run for its money. But it is smaller (the Civic is a compact) and not as distinctive as the Prius. And so, just driving down the street won't announce your attempt to save the world as loudly as if you were buying a Prius. And the sales reflect that.
The only issues Honda has with the Civic Electric Hybrid is its size and the inevitable comparison. There's not much Honda can do about the size. Although the Prius is not much bigger and it has that weird shape, the Civic is smaller. Since the Prius gets better fuel economy, it also emits fewer greenhouse gases. And so the Civic suffers in comparison to the its hybrid competition. Not only that, but its next closest rival is usually sitting right next to it on the lot. Many times, consumers will switch to the gas only hybrid Civic because it is cheaper and because it already gets great gas mileage. Honda has announced it will be producing a hybrid only vehicle in an effort to compete.
Put it all together and you get the second best hybrid car.
3a and 3b) Nissan Altima Electric Hybrid and Toyota Camry Electric Hybrid
The Nissan Altima Hybrid Electric Car is a great hybrid. Not only is the Altima a fun car to drive, it also comes with Toyotas Hybrid Synergy Drive which has been proven to be reliable. But therein lies the rub for Nissan. Since it does not have its own hybrid technology, yet, they claim they lose money on each hybrid sold. They have promised a hybrid car of their own by the next decade, but in the meantime, they are very reluctant to sell hybrids at all.
And so Nissan has limited sales of its lone hybrid to just eight states. The pr statement says they are limiting sales to those states with the most interest in hybrids. What comes closer to the truth is the Altima Hybrid Electric Car is being sold in only those states with the highest emissions rating.
But the Altima Hybrid is a great hybrid to own. It gets a combined 39 mpg and has a huge gas tank (20.0 gallons) which means you can go 702 miles between fill-ups. Its also rated just above the Toyota Camry Hybrid in greenhouse gas emissions.
Which brings us to the Toyota Camry Hybrid. The Camry is one of the top selling vehicles on the planet. The Camry Hybrid became the second most popular hybrid on the road almost immediately on its release. And it's not hard to see why. The Camry Hybrid also gets 39 mpg combined. Unlike the Prius, it does not come in that weird shape. And unlike the Civic, its not a compact. More room inside (not a lot more room, but enough to make you comfortable) and more room in the trunk means the Camry Hybrid, like the Nissan Altima Hybrid, are more practical choices than the Civic Hybrid. So, if you don't mind sacrificing some fuel economy for comfort, but don't want that funky shape, the Camry or Altima Hybrid Electric Cars could be just right for you.
5) Ford Escape Hybrid
Number 5 is actually hard to pick. There are several other HEVs available including Saturns Aura and Vue Greenline, the Lexus GS 450h, RX 400h and the Toyota Highlander Hybrid. But the Escape Hybrid comes at a more reasonable price than the Lexus or Highlander Hybrids, while getting the best combined mpg (34 for FWD and 31 for 4WD) of the hybrid SUVs available today. The Saturn Hybrid Electric vehicles are termed mild hybrids, and as such are incapable of powering the vehicle on electric power alone.
The Ford Escape Electric Hybrid is a SUV hybrid. That gives it more room and gives the driver more options for those who are just interested in a sedan. While not as popular as the Highlander Hybrid, the Escape is a compact SUV that strives to get the most it can. The 2008 model is a big step up in terms of noise control and other features, while costing less than it used to. And if you want some luxury options, you could always upgrade to the Mercury Mariner Hybrid. The Escape and Mariner are basically the same vehicles, Mercury is just the luxury brand.
So, there you go. Those are my top five best hybrid cars. My ratings are based on my personal feelings, sales figures, dimensions, and probably most importantly, fuel economy. I don't believe hybrids would be as popular right now if gas prices weren't rising so dramatically. Despite the 'green' aspects involved (hybrids are usually at the front of the line when it comes to emissions ratings), its gasoline costs that are on the minds of most consumers today.
I won't go into any details, but here are some last pieces of information I have detailed elsewhere when it comes to looking into hybrid electric cars.
The Five Best Hybrid Cars
1) The Toyota Prius
The Toyota Prius is the best hybrid car. As of right now, half of all hybrids sold are Prius and there are many reasons for that. Most hybrids today look like and act like regular gas-only cars. The only way you can tell most hybrids are hybrids is by the badging automakers put on the sides and rear paneling. Not so with the Prius.
Its unique design, has been harshly criticized by consumers who think it is just ugly. But the truth is the design is not there to please the eye. The lines and shape are designed to help the Prius cut through the air, thereby giving it the best fuel economy possible. A midsize sedan capable of 55 mpg combined, the Prius will only cost less to run than most sub-compacts. That high mileage rating gives the Prius the lowest emissions rating. According to fueleconomy.gov, the Prius emits only 3.5 tons of greenhouse gas each year and it's regularly awarded top honors when the 'Green' awards are presented.
2) Honda Civic Hybrid
At a combined 50 mpg, the Honda Civic Hybrid gives the Prius a run for its money. But it is smaller (the Civic is a compact) and not as distinctive as the Prius. And so, just driving down the street won't announce your attempt to save the world as loudly as if you were buying a Prius. And the sales reflect that.
The only issues Honda has with the Civic Electric Hybrid is its size and the inevitable comparison. There's not much Honda can do about the size. Although the Prius is not much bigger and it has that weird shape, the Civic is smaller. Since the Prius gets better fuel economy, it also emits fewer greenhouse gases. And so the Civic suffers in comparison to the its hybrid competition. Not only that, but its next closest rival is usually sitting right next to it on the lot. Many times, consumers will switch to the gas only hybrid Civic because it is cheaper and because it already gets great gas mileage. Honda has announced it will be producing a hybrid only vehicle in an effort to compete.
Put it all together and you get the second best hybrid car.
3a and 3b) Nissan Altima Electric Hybrid and Toyota Camry Electric Hybrid
The Nissan Altima Hybrid Electric Car is a great hybrid. Not only is the Altima a fun car to drive, it also comes with Toyotas Hybrid Synergy Drive which has been proven to be reliable. But therein lies the rub for Nissan. Since it does not have its own hybrid technology, yet, they claim they lose money on each hybrid sold. They have promised a hybrid car of their own by the next decade, but in the meantime, they are very reluctant to sell hybrids at all.
And so Nissan has limited sales of its lone hybrid to just eight states. The pr statement says they are limiting sales to those states with the most interest in hybrids. What comes closer to the truth is the Altima Hybrid Electric Car is being sold in only those states with the highest emissions rating.
But the Altima Hybrid is a great hybrid to own. It gets a combined 39 mpg and has a huge gas tank (20.0 gallons) which means you can go 702 miles between fill-ups. Its also rated just above the Toyota Camry Hybrid in greenhouse gas emissions.
Which brings us to the Toyota Camry Hybrid. The Camry is one of the top selling vehicles on the planet. The Camry Hybrid became the second most popular hybrid on the road almost immediately on its release. And it's not hard to see why. The Camry Hybrid also gets 39 mpg combined. Unlike the Prius, it does not come in that weird shape. And unlike the Civic, its not a compact. More room inside (not a lot more room, but enough to make you comfortable) and more room in the trunk means the Camry Hybrid, like the Nissan Altima Hybrid, are more practical choices than the Civic Hybrid. So, if you don't mind sacrificing some fuel economy for comfort, but don't want that funky shape, the Camry or Altima Hybrid Electric Cars could be just right for you.5) Ford Escape Hybrid
Number 5 is actually hard to pick. There are several other HEVs available including Saturns Aura and Vue Greenline, the Lexus GS 450h, RX 400h and the Toyota Highlander Hybrid. But the Escape Hybrid comes at a more reasonable price than the Lexus or Highlander Hybrids, while getting the best combined mpg (34 for FWD and 31 for 4WD) of the hybrid SUVs available today. The Saturn Hybrid Electric vehicles are termed mild hybrids, and as such are incapable of powering the vehicle on electric power alone.
The Ford Escape Electric Hybrid is a SUV hybrid. That gives it more room and gives the driver more options for those who are just interested in a sedan. While not as popular as the Highlander Hybrid, the Escape is a compact SUV that strives to get the most it can. The 2008 model is a big step up in terms of noise control and other features, while costing less than it used to. And if you want some luxury options, you could always upgrade to the Mercury Mariner Hybrid. The Escape and Mariner are basically the same vehicles, Mercury is just the luxury brand.
So, there you go. Those are my top five best hybrid cars. My ratings are based on my personal feelings, sales figures, dimensions, and probably most importantly, fuel economy. I don't believe hybrids would be as popular right now if gas prices weren't rising so dramatically. Despite the 'green' aspects involved (hybrids are usually at the front of the line when it comes to emissions ratings), its gasoline costs that are on the minds of most consumers today.
I won't go into any details, but here are some last pieces of information I have detailed elsewhere when it comes to looking into hybrid electric cars.
- You will save money in the long run (average of 3 to 5 years depending on the model) depending on how many miles you drive annually.
- Federal tax credits are nice, but now that they are phasing out for Toyota Hybrids, you may be able to get a deal.
- Some states offer rebates of their own. There are also some local perks to driving hybrids including solo access to HOV lanes and free parking.
- Some insurance companies will offer lower rates to hybrid car owners.
- If you don't mind driving a compact or subcompact, they may be a better deal for you. Anything larger than that and you should consider hybrids for their fuel savings if nothing else.
Friday, 4 May 2007
Hybrid Car Sales, April 2007
Hybrid car sales jumped to 27,351 units sold, an increase of 26.0% over last April. Toyota and, to be specific, the Prius are still the main driving force. Toyota sold 21,418 units, which means three out of every four hybrids sold last month were from Toyota or Lexus. Honda came in a distant second, selling 3,175 units. While Ford and Nissan sold 2,275 and 483 units, respectively. GM does not break out their (mild) hybrid cars sales and so are not included.Toyota Hybrid Sales
Toyota sold 13,056 Prius units, an increase of 58.6% from last April. Which means almost half (47.7%) of all hybrids sold last month were Prius. Sales of the Prius were way down from March, but that may be due to the issues surrounding the federal tax credit.
The end of March marked the next phase for Toyota, which cut all Toyota models down to 25% of their original credit amounts. So its quite likely many customers got a rush order delivered in March to take advantage.Highlander Hybrid sales were down 36.5% to 2,394 units sold. Camry Hybrid sales entered their second year of sales, hitting 4,410 units. The Camry Hybrid retained its position as the second most popular hybrid, capturing 16 percent of the market.
Lexus RX 400h sales decreased by 38.4% to 1,384 units. Lexus GS 450h sales were up as it started its second year of sales by increasing sales by 23.4% to 174 units sold.
Honda Hybrid Sales
Honda Hybrid sales were down last month. Accord Hybrid sales continue to suffer. They were down 48.2% from last year to 318 units sold. The Accord Hybrid was built for performance, not for fuel economy and sales have been dropping consistently. Honda Civic Hybrid sales also dropped 7.5% to 2,855 units sold. By capturing over 10 percent of the hybrid market, the Civic stayed in third place in the hybrid market. Honda also sold 2 Insights, the discontinued two-seater.Ford and Nissan Hybrid Sales
Ford Escape and Mariner Hybrid sales dropped by 33.5% to 2,275 units sold. Nissan sold 483 units of the Altima hybrid. Nissan has chosen to sell the Altima Hybrid in just eight states, those who follow California's stricter emissions guidelines.
Hybrid SUV SalesOf some note: hybrid SUV sales have decreased 35.8% from last April. Hybrid SUV sales have only increased twice in the past 11 months. Higher gas prices may be affecting even those SUVs with more fuel economy. Or, its possible these figures are being biased as some hybrid SUV buyers are going to the Saturn Vue Greenline, whose sales numbers I do not have.
These numbers should show some dramatic increases by the end of the year as GM and then DaimlerChrysler followed by BMW enter the hybrid SUV market with their dual-mode hybrid systems installed in their SUVs.
Overall Car Sales in April, 2007
April car sales were down 7.6% in the month of April. Only BMW, DaimlerChrysler and Mitsubishi showed increases from last April. According to some analysts, rising gas prices and a weak housing market have depressed the automotive market. The increase in hybrid car sales may be a sign of consumers moving to cars with higher fuel economy.
Hybrid Car Sales, April 2007
Hybrid car sales jumped to 27,351 units sold, an increase of 26.0% over last April. Toyota and, to be specific, the Prius are still the main driving force. Toyota sold 21,418 units, which means three out of every four hybrids sold last month were from Toyota or Lexus. Honda came in a distant second, selling 3,175 units. While Ford and Nissan sold 2,275 and 483 units, respectively. GM does not break out their (mild) hybrid cars sales and so are not included.Toyota Hybrid Sales
Toyota sold 13,056 Prius units, an increase of 58.6% from last April. Which means almost half (47.7%) of all hybrids sold last month were Prius. Sales of the Prius were way down from March, but that may be due to the issues surrounding the federal tax credit.
The end of March marked the next phase for Toyota, which cut all Toyota models down to 25% of their original credit amounts. So its quite likely many customers got a rush order delivered in March to take advantage.Highlander Hybrid sales were down 36.5% to 2,394 units sold. Camry Hybrid sales entered their second year of sales, hitting 4,410 units. The Camry Hybrid retained its position as the second most popular hybrid, capturing 16 percent of the market.
Lexus RX 400h sales decreased by 38.4% to 1,384 units. Lexus GS 450h sales were up as it started its second year of sales by increasing sales by 23.4% to 174 units sold.
Honda Hybrid Sales
Honda Hybrid sales were down last month. Accord Hybrid sales continue to suffer. They were down 48.2% from last year to 318 units sold. The Accord Hybrid was built for performance, not for fuel economy and sales have been dropping consistently. Honda Civic Hybrid sales also dropped 7.5% to 2,855 units sold. By capturing over 10 percent of the hybrid market, the Civic stayed in third place in the hybrid market. Honda also sold 2 Insights, the discontinued two-seater.Ford and Nissan Hybrid Sales
Ford Escape and Mariner Hybrid sales dropped by 33.5% to 2,275 units sold. Nissan sold 483 units of the Altima hybrid. Nissan has chosen to sell the Altima Hybrid in just eight states, those who follow California's stricter emissions guidelines.
Hybrid SUV SalesOf some note: hybrid SUV sales have decreased 35.8% from last April. Hybrid SUV sales have only increased twice in the past 11 months. Higher gas prices may be affecting even those SUVs with more fuel economy. Or, its possible these figures are being biased as some hybrid SUV buyers are going to the Saturn Vue Greenline, whose sales numbers I do not have.
These numbers should show some dramatic increases by the end of the year as GM and then DaimlerChrysler followed by BMW enter the hybrid SUV market with their dual-mode hybrid systems installed in their SUVs.
Overall Car Sales in April, 2007
April car sales were down 7.6% in the month of April. Only BMW, DaimlerChrysler and Mitsubishi showed increases from last April. According to some analysts, rising gas prices and a weak housing market have depressed the automotive market. The increase in hybrid car sales may be a sign of consumers moving to cars with higher fuel economy.
Thursday, 3 May 2007
Hybrid SUVs, Now and in the Future
You have five choices if you're looking for a hybrid SUV today. There's the Ford Escape Hybrid/Mercury Mariner Hybrid, Toyota Highlander Hybrid, Lexus RX 400h and the Saturn Vue Greenline.Ford Escape Hybrid and Mercury Mariner Hybrid -- SUV
The Ford Escape Hybrid and the Mercury Mariner Hybrid are twins, with the Mariner coming with more luxury components. The 2008 Ford Escape (4dr SUV AWD, 2.3L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT) has a MSRP of $26,825, while the Mariner (4dr SUV AWD, 2.3L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT) comes in at $27,515. They are rated at 152 ft-lbs. @ 4250 rpm and can seat 5 comfortably. They also have the smallest gas tank (15 gallons) and get about 29/27 city/highway mpg.
Toyota Highlander Hybrid -- SUVThe Highlander Hybrid is bigger than the Escape Hybrid in most ways and it has a price tag to match. The 2007 Highlander Hybrid (4dr Midsize SUV AWD w/3rd Row, 3.3L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT) has an MSRP of $34,430. But you get a larger engine (6 cylinders vs the 4 in the Escape) and third row seating. You also get higher fuel economy at 31/27 city/highway mpg and a larger gas tank 17.2 gallons, which means you can go farther on each tank of gas.
Lexus RX 400h -- SUV
The RX 400h is the luxury SUV. Capable of getting 31/27 city/highway mpg, the 2007 400h (4dr SUV AWD, 3.3L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT) has an MSRP of $42,580. But for that, you'll get all the options including a six disc CD player, lots of leather and trim, and more options for moving your seat around. You also get more horsepower (268 hp@5600 rpm), and more towing capacity (212 ft-lbs.@4400 rpm).
Saturn Vue Hybrid -- SUV
The Vue Greenline, unlike the other hybrid SUVs available today, is a mild hybrid. Which means the engine cannot move the vehicle on electric power alone. The electric motor (through a Belt Assist System) is there to assist the gas engine. This gives the Vue an EPA rating of 27/32 mpg, allowing it to claim the number one spot for highway fuel economy. It also comes with the smallest price tag, with an MSRP of $22,370 for the 2007 model (4dr SUV, 2.4L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid 4A). The smaller engine does what it can, giving 170 hp@6600 rpm and a torque of 162 ft-lbs.@4400 rpm.
The Future of Hybrid SUVs
If you're not looking right now, but are willing to wait until the end of the year or even into next year, there are many more hybrid SUVs coming out soon. GM, BMW and DaimlerChrysler partnered together to develop the 2-mode (sometimes called dual-mode) hybrid system. The new hybrid system is promised to give each of the new hybrid SUVs 25% improvement in fuel economy.
GM will be first to market with the Yukon Hybrid and Tahoe Hybrid late this year. GM is also going to refit the Saturn Vue Hybrid with a dual mode engine next year. Chrysler should be releasing the hybrid Aspen (yeah, it's got a hemi) and the Dodge Durango hybrid sometime next year. BMW has promised hybrids in the next three years. And at some point, Mazda says it will release the Tribute Hybrid. The Tribute is a cousin to the Escape/Mariner, so the only question about the Tribute you should have is, what took so long?
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