Hybrids: Could They Save The Automotive Industry?
With gas prices rising and big vehicle sales waning, consumers are turning to the next best thing, hybrid cars. These cars seem to be acting as the savior for auto manufacturers around the world. Lines are forming as consumers demand hybrid cars, but manufacturers say a shortage of power train components and batteries are creating limited availability of hybrids. Overcautious forecasting on the part of automakers may also be to blame. Whatever the reason for their slow production and less than expected availability, as soon as hybrids become widely available they are sure to be gobbled up. They make a great transitional vehicle to help society hold out until an alternative propulsion system can be found and its fuel be integrated into our system (like hydrogen in California or electric in Belgium and Israel).
What makes it a hybrid?
A hybrid car has two or more on-board energy sources and most often features electric power combined with at least one other energy source. Electronically Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission technology allows management of transitioning back and forth to each energy source, and a regenerative braking system recharges the battery when the car slows.