Is the Cost of Low Emissions Too High?

Let's first take a look at the history of hybrid vehicles. Automotive invention began with steam as far back as the 1700's. Hybrid electric technology advancement grew rapidly during the late 1800's and early twentieth century, but quickly declined due to Henry Ford's assembly line production and the invention of the self-starting gas engine (HybridCars.com, 2006). During the 1970's realization of global warming began a cry for clean energy. Scientists once again were looking for alternatives in transportation; conservation of fossil fuels and promoting a healthy earth became priority. But consumers drive the market, so until the recent economic crisis, many were content with the price of gas and not as concerned with carbon footprints, which are determined by the amount of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere. By using the experiences of their forefathers, manufacturers are enhancing the hybrid to please (by being earth and wallet friendly) in our fast paced world of today.

[image credit: http://www.hybrid-vehicle.org/hybrid-vehicle-history.html]

High fuel prices are making fuel efficient cars more necessary. Let's take a look at how the most popular hybrid, the gas-electric hybrid, works. If you drive a Toyota or Ford, upon turning the key, an internal combustion engine rumbles to life only to turn over the reins to its parallel electric motor after warm-up. This electric motor can handle a slow acceleration up to 30 miles per hour if the driver is easy on the pedal (HybridCars.com, 2006). Once higher speeds are reached, the gas engine takes over because more power is needed. In order to create more efficiency, usually a smaller internal combustion engine is used in hybrids. The electric motor drive assist function allows the electric motor to assist in acceleration and uphill driving (US Dept. of Energy, 2011). Another very important efficiency tactic is regenerative braking; a function, which makes hybrid technology possible. When the driver applies the brakes, the electric motor captures kinetic energy from the wheels during deceleration to charge the battery pack. This energy, which is usually wasted, is stored and can be used later to power the motor. In a parallel system, the electric motor and the internal combustion engine are both connected to the generator and take turns powering the vehicle.

Although the parallel system is more popular, some manufacturers use a series structure. In a typical series hybrid, the engine runs a generator which charges the battery. The electric motor pulls energy from the battery to power the motor, propelling the vehicle. The gas engine is not attached to the transmission; it only serves to power the generator.

In addition to using lightweight materials and optimizing aerodynamics, many manufacturers are utilizing auto start/stop technology. Periodically, during idle time, the engine will automatically shut off, but restart when the gas pedal is depressed. In 2010, Ford Motors announced that it intends to make auto start/stop technology standard on all of its conventional gas engine vehicles in an attempt to save gas: 4% reduction under most circumstances and up to 10% when used in city driving where frequent stops and longer idle times are more common (Woodyard, 2010).

[image credit: http://uberjedi.wordpress.com/]

Driving habits influence fuel economy. Excessive braking and rapid acceleration will cost you money. Aggressive driving accounts for a 33% drop in highway mileage (EPA, 2011). Keeping to the speed limit is a good idea; use cruise control to keep yourself in check. Efficiency decreases at speeds above 60 miles per hour and idling for extended periods is a waste. Another great tip for enhancing your vehicles fuel performance is to reduce cargo weight. Carrying unneeded items in your trunk will cost you. Don't forget to roll up the windows during highway driving to reduce air drag by 10% (Miles, 2011). Planning ahead for your errands and daily commute or carpooling is always an eco-friendly way to go.

Routine maintenance on your vehicle also helps maximize fuel efficiency. A simple tune-up can provide a 4% improvement in gas mileage (EPA, 2011b). Using the recommended grade motor oil and keeping your tires properly inflated also contribute. These are just some of the ways you can influence your car's gas mileage.

You can use less gas without buying a hybrid. AOL Autos recommends a few budget friendly hybrid alternatives (Brennan, 2010). The 2011 Ford Fiesta, a 1.6 liter four-cylinder gas engine, gets 40 mpg and staring at and affordable $13,320, this could be the right fit for you. Albeit, the Fiesta will not accommodate a large family, but would be perfect for a lengthy college or office commute. Another option is the 2011 Chevrolet Cruze, which also gets 40 mpg on the highway. Chrysler's limited release of the 2012 Fiat 500 might me something to think about if you don't expect to need a lot of spunk. Its 99 hp engine with 107 lb-ft of torque can be made up for in the money you'll save at the pump; it gets 38 miles per gallon. As you can see hybrid is not always the most efficient option for some drivers, but if you need family transportation, more space is a necessity. The most efficient minivan on the market, according to fueleconomy.gov, is the 2011 Honda Odyssey at 22 mpg (EPA, 2011d). Now contrast that with 32 mpg in the 2011 Mercury Mariner Hybrid FWD. Hybrid doesn't always mean smaller, but the larger the vehicle, the lower the gas mileage, hybrid or not, its physics.

[image credit: http://autos.aol.com/gallery/40-mpg-cars/]

Hybrid technology is definitely making a comeback. With concerns of national debt and dependence on foreign oil, more Americans are looking to the future of alternative methods for transportation. Aside from the obvious all electric vehicle or EV, which is great for short distances, the idea hydrogen powered cars is beginning to gain ground. These eco-friendly machines spew harmless steam into the atmosphere. Although they are not on the market , you can lease the Honda FCX in California (Lampton, nd). The most concerting hold-ups in bringing this type of option to the public are the cost of manufacturing the machine (one hydrogen fuel-cell car can cost a whopping $100,000), and making hydrogen filling stations operable. Standard fuel holding tanks cannot support hydrogen, the lightest, but most abundant element on Earth. Hydrogen must first be separated from water in order for it to be usable to fuel our cars. Converting mass filling stations to accommodate hydrogen would cost astronomical amounts of money not to mention years of construction. It's nice to think about this futuristic technology becoming mainstream, but for now, our best possibilities are the hybrid electrics.

Well, we've learned a few basics about the mechanics of our precious hybrid motors and looked at how to be a smart shopper, efficient driver, and eco-friendly car owner. We discussed who's who in fuel efficiency at www.fueleconomy.gov , as well as keeping our minds (and wallets) open to a few conventional gas sippers. Alternative energy options are on the rise; consumer demands are driving innovation. Look forward to a new fleet of fuel efficient transportation machines every year. Who knows what may be right around the corner, maybe someday soon petroleum use will be significantly reduced and we can fill our tanks with a little H2O.

[image credit: http://www.hybridcars.com/vehicle/subaru-r1e.html]