Life’s tough enough without having to worry about work, life, and love. But a bigger issue is the environment.
The changing world spells climate change and a total revamp of they way we live, whether it be conserving that little bit more power or cutting down on the amount of pollution we generate.
When it comes to driving there is a solution that does both, and lets you look fabulous while doing so. We’re talking about hybrid cars, the latest über-hot mode of commuting among Hollywood fashionistas. Hollywood icons, including Cameron Diaz, Salma Hayek, Ellen DeGeneres and many more, have swapped their Porsches and Lexuses for the new eco-status symbol – hybrid cars.
Hybrid drivers want to do more than own a car that is good for the environment; hybrids, like JT, are really bringing sexy back - merging style and a technological coming-of-age into a stunning new package.
So what’s different about hybrids?
1. You do not plug-in a hybrid car Modern hybrid cars run on petrol just like any non-hybrid, the only difference being that hybrids also have power-efficient electric motors that work with the petrol motor. This means the electric motors run on battery power, which is recharged through normal driving and technologies such as regenerative braking - so no cables to plug into walls. Apart from petrol (and far less of it), there’s nothing else it needs to run.
2. A hybrid car can achieve twice the fuel economy of a comparable non-hybrid Because the electric motors assist the petrol engine, less power is wasted, meaning more fuel money is saved. For example, in the Toyota Prius the petrol motor does not run while stationary or at slow speeds where the petrol engine would be inefficient so it's great for inner city driving. When the petrol motor does run the electric motor assists allowing it to run more efficiently, which saves up to half the fuel costs compared to a similar non-hybrid.
3. Hybrids emit up to 90% less noxious emissions Efficient power management, better engine design, the latest emission control systems and the combination of petrol and electric power slashes noxious emissions from a hybrid by up to 90% - that’s a massive eco-fashion statement!
4. Hybrid cars are not underpowered Although hybrids tend to have smaller engine CCs, the electric motors also give the petrol engine a boost in situations where more power is needed, such as hard acceleration. This translates to power when you need it and less fuel wasted when you don’t.
5. Hybrid cars drive smoother and quieter The electric motors are virtually silent - making driving a hybrid a way calmer driving experience compared to a non-hybrid, especially when only the electric motors are powering the car. You can think of driving a Toyota Prius, as having your own personal sanctuary against the stress of commuting.
6. No special maintenance is required Hybrid cars just need regular oil and filter changes just like non-hybrids, but no extra maintenance. The nickel metal hydride (NiMH) batteries which power the electric motors are fully recyclable, just like modern rechargeable batteries, and not lead acid like the one in your dad’s old car. In a Toyota Prius, the battery pack is designed to last the lifetime of the car which Toyota says is in excess of 12 years.
7. Servicing a hybrid car can be cheaper than servicing a non-hybrid Hybrids such as the Toyota Prius only have 21 moving parts in the drive train, reducing wear and tear. The use of regenerative braking also allows brake pads to last up to three times longer, which means fewer trips to the mechanic. Hybrid service parts do not go “out of stock” and are widely available. 8. No special skills are required for a hybrid car If you know how to drive, then simply you can drive a hybrid. Hybrids feel and drive just like a normal car with automatic transmission - whilst being smoother and quieter.
9. Hybrid cars have all the safety features of non-hybrids Modern hybrids have the safety features we have come to expect in any modern car, with ABS brakes, air bags, traction control, side intrusion beams and front and back crumple zones. The 5-star NCAP safety ratings (the highest) on all current model hybrids should pacify the most safety-conscious.
10. Hybrid cars are affordable Although new hybrid cars are typically slightly more expensive than comparable non-hybrids, this higher price is ultimately offset by significantly improved fuel economy, lower maintenance costs and a higher resale value. Affordable second-hand hybrids are an option with the availability of used imports in excellent condition starting at $13,995, with dealer warranties. And of course, less money spent on petrol justifies that new pair of gorgeous shoes!
Unlike other fashion fads, hybrids are practical and actually have a real cause to back, and also unlike super-skinny jeans look are here to stay. Unless you’re a real off-roader, leave the gas-guzzling SUVs to soccer mums. To get more clued up on hybrid cars check out www.hybridcars.co.nz.
bigger issue is the environment. 
1. You do not plug-in a hybrid car
5. Hybrid cars drive smoother and quieter
10. Hybrid cars are affordable