Although hybrid cars have slowly been gaining in popularity around the world, a very small percentage of consumers have actually switched to them. This is largely because they have remained much more expensive than traditional cars. It is unlikely that this will change in 2010, but prices on hybrid vehicles have been steadily coming down. 2010 offers more cars than ever before. Here are a few of the newest options.
1. Chevrolet Volt
The Chevy Volt has been hotly anticipated ever since it was announced, and it is expected to finally be released in 2010. This car operates on Chevy's Voltec technology. The first 40 miles of a car trip are powered by the on board lithium-ion battery. After that, a gas engine will power the vehicle for 300 more miles. Even better, it can be charged via a standard household power outlet. The price is expected to be around $32,500.2. Fisker Karma
The Fisker Karma is a sleek sports car made by Fisker Automotive. Like the Volt, the first 50 miles are powered by an electric battery. Fisker claims that you only need to refuel this car once per year as long as you drive less than 50 miles per day. You can even opt for an option to have solar panels installed on the roof of the car, which can provide about 5 more miles per week of free driving. Although it is an electric hybrid, this car packs some serious power. Its top speed is 125 mph, and it can jump from 0 to 60 in 5.8 seconds. The price is pretty steep, at $87,900.3. Hyundai Sonata
The Sonata is a popular line which Hyundai has been producing since 1985. Starting in March 2010, they will begin selling a hybrid version. This new car will be powered by a lithium polymer battery and will be based on their Blue-Will (another hybrid car from Hyundai) concept. Pricing has yet to be released, but traditionally Sonatas have been priced under $20,000.4. Honda CR-Z
This new model from Honda features a hybrid gas and electric system. Although a six-speed manual transmission is standard, an automatic transmission is also available. Sales for these vehicles began in select countries in February 2010, and they are expected to become available in the United States in mid-2010. The current price in England is 16,999 British Pounds, which translates to about $25,250.5. Toyota Auris
The Auris is a new hybrid car from Toyota. Similar in style and design to the Corolla, the Auris HSD Full Hybrid is slated for release in the second half of 2010.6. Persu Hybrid
The Persu Hybrid is a very interesting vehicle which is being developed by Persu Mobility. You may have heard of this car when it was being developed under its previous name, the VentureOne. This vehicle looks like a car until you scrutinize it more carefully. Then you'll notice that it only has three wheels. As such, it is officially classified as a 3-wheel motorcycle. This plug-in hybrid vehicle is capable of making 45 degree turns, and it is scheduled for an exclusive California release in late 2010.7. Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid
The Prius has thus far been the most widely known and celebrated hybrid car of all time. Beginning in 2010, they are introducing their first plug-in model. This car will be able to travel 14.5 miles on battery power before the gas engine kicks in. The great news is that it only takes 3 hours to fully charge the battery. The not so great news is that is won't be offered worldwide until 2011, and it is expected to cost $48,000.
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