Hybrid Cars
For the last few years, fuel prices have been steadily, but surely rising and rising. Petrol is very expensive relative to a few years ago and cutting petrol use has become a necessity for many. On top of this, growing awareness of climate change and the huge amounts of harmful emissions released when driving have prompted a gradual change in mentality amongst drivers and `hybrid cars` have emerged as a green alternative.

How they work
There are essentially two opposite forms of hybrid engine used in cars. The first type is a gasoline-assist engine that features in the Honda Prius and Ford Escape Hybrid. These engines have the capacity to use both electric and petrol power. When the car requires lots of energy such as accelerating from a standstill, electric power is used. On the other hand, when travelling over 25mph and less energy is required, petrol is used. This is the opposite to the other type of engine - the electric-assist model. In these cars it is the electric power that kicks in when extra energy is needed and cars that feature these engines include the Honda Insight and Civic Hybrid.

The Benefits of Hybrid
There are numerous benefits to having a hybrid car over a standard petrol-powered vehicle. Firstly, hybrids equal regular cars in terms of aspects such as comfort and performance. Vast amounts of time, research and funding has gone into developing hybrid cars and there now several stylish and comfortable hybrid cars available. Furthermore, given the huge improvements in the technology in recent years, hybrids perform at par with traditionally-powered vehicles if not better. The dual capabilities of hybrid cars combine clean and emission-free electrical energy with petrol and this offers a considerably better mileage to regular cars. Less petrol is required and the increased efficiency of these engines means that fewer harmful climate-changing gases are emitted and this will also result in lower petrol bills for drivers.

The Top Hybrids around
Currently, the two top hybrid cars around, in terms of technology, popularity and comfort, are the Toyota Prius, Honda Civic Hybrid, although numerous competitors promise to widen the market. In third place is probably the Lexus GS 450h, for example. The Prius is the oldest hybrid around and has become an almost iconic model as it began a minor green revolution in the car world. Their energy efficient and innovative engines alongside their stylish designs have made them very popular. Civic Hybrids are catching up in terms of reputation and their greenness is favoured by increasing numbers of drivers.

Buying a Hybrid car
There are a range of hybrids around and it can be tricky to choose and buy a car. The most important aspect to consider is where and when the car will be used. Different engines conserve more energy in different ways and a city user will benefit more from a gasoline-assisted engine whereas electricity-assisted cars benefit long-distance journeys.