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Chrysler Hybrid
For the past five years, Chrysler has been criticized
for its hybrid strategy, or lack there of. Though they were a major
player in the early 90's, many executives held the opinion that
hybrid technology was not going to last, and that diesel technology
was worth much more attention.
In August 2004 however, Chrysler made a complete
turnaround, and announced that not only would it be producing gasoline
electric hybrids by 2006, it will be releasing Dodge Ram hybrids
to select fleet customers later this year.
Chrysler has not announced any hybrid models under
its own division, and the Sebring, Crossfire, and PT Cruiser are
all unlikely candidates at this point.
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| Acura RD-X, RL |
| BMW X5 |
| Chevrolet
Malibu, Tahoe, Equinox |
| Dodge Durango,
Intrepid ESX |
| Ford Escape HEV |
| GMC Sierra Partial
Hybrid |
| Honda Insight,
Civic, Accord |
| Lexus RX 400H,
LS |
| Mazda RX-8 |
| Saturn EV1,
VUE |
| Subaru B9 SC |
| Toyota
Prius, Camry, Highlander |
Though current hybrid car tax incentives/rebates are being
phased out, consumers can look forward to rebates of up to $5000
in 2005.
Current hybrid cars can get up to 60 miles to the gallon on
the highway. In addition to fuel economy, they boast lower emissions
and depreciation than gasoline powered cars.
In the near future, hybrid cars are expected to get fuel mileage
as high as 190 miles per gallon!
Environmentalists embrace hybrid cars as a solution to today's
pollution problems.
Heavy HEV development began in the early 1990's with major
manufacturers donating billions of dollars to the research of
new hybrid technologies.
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