While those of us concerned about the impact our travel arrangements have on the environment have been trying to reduce our emissions by any means possible, it looks like the rise in petrol prices are forcing others to consider the option of electric and hybrid vehicles. These alternative cars have been around for decades but none have quite come up to the standard required of a high quality consumer-focussed vehicle.
Up until recently, the only car of this quality on the market was the Toyota Prius, with a hoard of celebrity admirers such as Cameron Diaz, Jack Black and Brad Pitt. However, thanks to some big names in the industry, it looks like a wider range electric and hybrid cars will soon be on the market and available to everyone. The North American Auto Show in Detroit this week saw General Motor’s Chevrolet Volt, an electric-petrol hybrid, win the coveted North American Car of the Year Award, with the Nissan Leaf coming in as a close second.
Ford has also jumped on the ethical bandwagon (which, of course, is not bad thing), unveiling not one but THREE hybrid and electric models – the C-Max Hybrid which does an impressive 41 miles to the gallon, the C-Max Plug In which is a plug in hybrid, and the Ford Focus Electric; a battery electric vehicle.
While there have been concerns in the past over the reliability of electric and hybrid cars, the recent technological developments are sure to put many people’s minds at ease and even encourage them to make a purchase. What’s more, a hybrid is a perfect option for those of you not comfortable with the idea of a fully electric vehicle. Whatever you choose, whether its an electric, hybrid, or a bicycle, making eco an option is one of the best things you can do in 2011 – it can save you quite a bit of moolah, and maybe even top up your good karma!
Images Courtesy of Ford
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