Top Reasons to Buy a Hybrid Car

The best reasons to buy a hybrid:

While controversial, some scientists believe that fossil fuel consumption is causing global warming.

1. Pollute Less. Hybrid cars produce up to 90% fewer emissions.

2. Reduce Oil Dependency. Hybrid cars generally achieve 15% to 30% higher fuel efficiency.

3. Support Future Hybrid Development. Every hybrid car sale expands the market, encouraging further investments by automakers in developing hybrid technology and building manufacturing capacity. These investments lower future prices of hybrid cars, creating a virtuous circle.

4. Save Money. Resale value is incredible! Insurance is 10% cheaper. Gas is 10-50% less. Maintenance is solid as these cars are very well made. The IRS has adopted large tax credits for purchase of new hybrid vehicles. The credits have a current maximum of $3,150. Note these are credits-- dollar for dollar tax savings-- not merely deductions. The credits vary by model (See Hybrid Tax Credits). The law that created the credits limits its availability to 60,000 vehicles from each automaker; meaning credits for popular models will be gone before the tax breaks scheduled Dec. 31, 2010, expiration date.

5. Why Not? Hybrid cars are just as comfortable and reliable as "regular" cars.

6. Ride in The Carpool Lane. In states such as California, Arizona and Virginia, some hybrids qualify for single-occupant use in carpool lanes.

7. Performance. Better gas mileage, much faster and stronger braking, better torque up short hills. See also Reasons Not to Buy a Hybrid Car (yet).