FAQ: Hybrid vehicles

24 Aug 00

IN THIS FEATURE

Your questions answered
What are the benefits?

How does a hybrid save energy if the engine also charges a battery?

Since the two power sources can be combined, the petrol engine can be smaller and more efficient while still giving reasonable performance. The battery, with its 'free' energy, is a bit like a turbocharger, boosting performance when it's needed. The Honda Insight's VTEC engine, for example, has a capacity of just 1.0 litre and three cylinders and makes just 66bhp. When the battery cuts in, that goes up to 74bhp. But the most noticeable improvement is to torque or 'pulling power'. The petrol engine can muster 67lb ft at 4800rpm; with electric assistance that rises to 83lb ft, but at a much lower 1500rpm. That's the sort of figures a diesel engine might typically manage, yet the Insight can accelerate from 0-62mph in 12 seconds and has a top speed of 112mph.

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What hybrid models are available?

Honda's quirky, lightweight two-seat Insight coupe was one of the first hybrids on sale, along with the first-generation Toyota Prius, a small four-door saloon. Increasing numbers of these are now available secondhand, though they're not cheap despite being out of warranty. The Mk2 Toyota Prius is a more practical family-sized hatchback, and a multiple award-winner; Honda now offers the Civic Hybrid, and Toyota's Lexus division has launched the RX400h 4x4, with a hybrid version of its new-generation GS on the way in 2006. Ford offers hybrid versions of its Escape and Mercury Mariner 4x4 in the US, but these are not available here. Both Honda and Toyota promise more hybrids in the near future, and most major manufacturers will be offering hybrids within the next few years too.