Go Green with Hybrid Tips & Fuel of the Future

by Larry Blumberg, Gina Cunningham and Jim Philion,
Co-Founders of the Coronado Speed Festival

As Americans are counting their dollars carefully, cars that use alternative fuels, such as hybrids, are rising in popularity. With the recession, consumers are paying close attention to hybrid vehicles in order to save money at the pump. However, the benefits of a hybrid vehicle are more than economical; hybrid cars benefit the environment as well.

What exactly is a hybrid car?

A hybrid car is basically a normal, fuel-efficient car with two motors – an electric motor and a gasoline powered motor. Hybrids capture the best of both worlds. Electric motors use no energy during idle, they turn off, and use less gas at lower speeds. Gas motors do better at high speeds and can deliver more power for a given motor weight. That means during rush hour and stop and go traffic, the electric motor works great and does not produce any exhaust, reducing smog levels. At higher speeds, the gas motor kicks in and gives that powerful feel that so many car owners desire. The gas efficiency is higher than electric cars — hybrids get 48 to 60 mpg.

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