Interesting Article on Hybrid Economics - GreenHybrid

Delta Flyer · #1 (**permalink**) 01-04-2006, 07:48 AM

Check out MSNBC Story

Interesting points:

The main hybrid cost is the batteries. Hopefully improved battery technology and/or capacitors will bring the cost down.
SUV sales have stalled, but hybrids need to be cheaper to fill the vaccum. Apparently, the public is buying somewhat more fuel-efficient conventional vehicles...
Electric motors are most efficient at low speeds - gas engines at high speeds
Hybrids are a growing market - hope Detroit is not left behind...

Sledge · #2 (**permalink**) 01-04-2006, 08:22 AM

GM will have a Saturn Vue Green Line hybrid SUV at NAIAS this year. This will not be the "dual mode" system they are co-developing with DCX.

It's not much but it's a start.

Delta Flyer · #3 (**permalink**) 01-04-2006, 08:26 AM

I hope it's the start of a turnaround.

Sledge · #4 (**permalink**) 01-04-2006, 08:30 AM

The funny thing about the dual mode system is that its first application will most probably be on Tahoe/Suburban/Escalade-type vehicles.