2009 model

[mdfortwoguy]

Originally Posted by Jeepster55

sorry, IMO anything that still soley depends on any kind of fossil fuel is NOT the best solution. hybrids are a 'better' solution BUT the 'best' solutions are either total electric or CNG/fuel cell vehicles.
the sooner we get OFF ALL FOSSIL FUELS the better off we will ALL be.
.....well that is except EXXON/MOBIL

Yes, but until we go entirely solar, wind, or water powered for generation, that's not going to happen.

What happens with the batteries when it comes time to scrap the hybrids or electrics... those are full of heavy metals that are just wonderful for then environment as well.

[PassionforPassionCT]

Hybrids are a huge gimmick, first you have the upfront extra cost of purchasing the car. Then the unproven reliability of all the complicated components and systems in the car. When the car is then recycled you have to deal with the batteries.
Of course this isnt exactly the best source out there, but I believe that its not far off, thats why I feel the smart and its competitors like the Yaris, Scions's etc are THE best cars available on the market for efficient PROVEN technology. True we need technologies that get us off of Fossil Fuels, but that means it needs to be affordable.
http://clubs.ccsu.edu/recorder/edito...asp?NewsID=188

[08-4-2]

Originally Posted by mdfortwoguy

Yes, but until we go entirely solar, wind, or water powered for generation, that's not going to happen.

What happens with the batteries when it comes time to scrap the hybrids or electrics... those are full of heavy metals that are just wonderful for then environment as well.

Power generation isn't the issue for electric cars, it's range and cost.

www.teslamotors.com

LiON are far more environmentally friendly than the current NiMH; but the latter are supposed to be recycled and not just buried in a ditch.