Today's production hybrid cars are marketed by
a singular benefit; increased fuel economy. Even though it is true
that hybrid cars can save drivers a bundle on gasoline and even
earn them a tax rebate (see hybrid
car tax rebate) the much more important benefit is the very
significant reduction in emissions. Generally, hybrid cars produce
80% less harmful pollutants and greenhouse gases than comparable
gasoline cars. This translates to less airborne pollutants, and
a cleaner earth.
The chart at left shows the emissions of greenhouse gases in
tons from the most fuel efficient mid sized cars of 2004. Greenhouse
gases are the gases which are thought to contribute to the greenhouse
effect - the warming of the Earth's climate due to the major buildup
of carbon dioxide, nitrous oxide, methane and other gases in the
atmosphere. These gases are released by the combustion of fossil
fuel, primarily by cars and other methods of transportation.
The calculations for emissions in tons per year are based on
45% highway driving, 55% city driving, and 15,000 miles per year.
For more information on the tests that produced these numbers,
visit the GREET
homepage.
Hybrid Car Emissions
(comparison of production hybrids)
| |
|
|
|
| City MPG |
48
|
57
|
60
|
| Highway MPG |
47
|
56
|
51
|
| Emissions |
4.1 tons
|
3.5 tons
|
3.5 tons
|
| Rating |
ULEV
|
SULEV II
|
SULEV II
|
| Engine Size |
1.3
|
1
|
1.5
|
