in the last month i've seen both Who Killed the Electric Car and Inconvenient Truth. they convinced me to let go of my STRONG desire for a mini SUV (for the greater visibility). but i cannot find a hybrid i can afford, and that saddens me greatly... i'm a single mom, just starting my master's degree, and living in one of the most expensive cities in the nation (santa fe). ANY advice or tips??? i'm SO desperate to follow through with ACTION. thanks for your time blessings, carie (carieking@usadatanet.net)

 

Given the fact that you are a parent, I'd assume that an Insight (2 seater, usually cheapest hybrid available) would not be possible for you. The next possible options would be the Honda Civic Hybrid or early Toyota Prius, but as you can see, there are not many for sale in your price range.

http://cars.com/go/search/detail.jsp...2&aff=national
http://cars.com/go/search/detail.jsp...2&aff=national

And those with very high mileage are also more likely to have battery problems. A better solution might be to look at non-hybrids that can also achieve superior mileage and low emissions. You should check out this article over at CleanMPG.com about inexpensive alternatives to hybrids for those who cannot afford them.
http://www.cleanmpg.com/forums/showthread.php?t=665