New Hybrid Reviews, News & Hybrid Mileage (MPG) Info

Toyota Plans for Plug-in Production in 2012

July 4, 2009 Toyota plans to begin commercial production of plug-in hybrids in 2012, producing between 20,000 and 30,000 units in the first year. Toyota hopes to sell its plug-in hybrid for about $48,000. The swifter move toward plug-in hybrids contradicts recent statements from Toyota executives.

June Hybrid Sales Up From a Year Ago

July 3, 2009 June hybrid sales suggest that hybrids are recovering more quickly than the overall car market—just as they defied the economic downturn several months after overall car sales started to decline in 2008. June marks the sixth consecutive month of higher hybrid sales.

Fisker Tries To Create Distance from Tesla

July 2, 2009 It’s not surprising that Fisker Automotive and Tesla Motors—two California-based makers of high-end electric-drive sports cars—are viewed as similar companies. Fisker makes an $87,000 plug-in hybrid and Tesla produces a $109,000 all-electric roadster. But Henrik Fisker, founder of the Southern California-based company that bears his name, was in Northern California where Tesla is based, to explain how and why the two companies are different.

The Honda Insight Hybrid has many critics

Reviewers Hurl Criticism at 2010 Honda Insight

June 30, 2009 When the Honda Insight was introduced in early 2009, reviewers gushed with praise. Reviewers claimed that the Insight is more compelling and fun to drive than the quintessential gas-electric car, the Toyota Prius, which is bigger, faster, and uses a more sophisticated third-generation of hybrid technology. But in the past few weeks, a number of critics found it quite easy to find faults with the Insight—harshly criticizing the car for the very traits that have allowed Honda to keep down the price.

2015 is New Magic Date for Fuel Cell Vehicles

June 30, 2009 Wishing upon a star or throwing a coin in a well might make dreams come true, but when it comes to fuel cell vehicles, auto industry executives are hoping that chanting in unison will turn hopes into reality. The mantra from execs: “Fuel cell cars for sale by 2015.”