Electric cars were popular in the US in the mid-19th to the early 20th century. They soon fell by the wayside with the introduction of the combustion engine. Now, electric cars are being revived again in the 21st century. Several auto manufacturers have joined the electric car production arena just in time to take advantage of the new era of “green technology,” and here are a handful of models that are currently available.
The Toyota Prius Hybrid
The third generation Prius uses the patented Hybrid Synergy Drive, which is a system that uses gas and electric to power the car. There are four models to choose from, but all are 1.8L, four cylinder engines with 98 horsepower, and an estimated 51 city and 48 highway mpg. You can expect to pay between $22,800 and $28,070 for a new Prius.
The Toyota Camry Hybrid
Toyota utilizes the same Hybrid Synergy Drive system for the Camry as the Prius, but the Camry Hybrid is a little more generous with interior space and a 2.4L engine with 169 horsepower. Fuel economy for the Camry Hybrid is 31 city and 35 highway and starts at around $26,575.
Chevrolet Volt
Due in Chevrolet’s 2011 line-up, you can contact your local dealer to place an order for the Volt. The Volt is a 4-door electric-gas hybrid sedan with an efficient 1.4 litre engine. The battery pack is backed by an 8-year, 100,000 mile warranty with an estimated cost of electric recharging of $1.50 per day. The Volt is emission-free and boasts an aerodynamic design, closed grille, and Goodyear Fuel Max tires to maximize efficiency. It starts at $32,780.
Ford Fusion Hybrid
Ford brings this four-door sedan with a 2.5L Atkinson-Cycle I-4 gas engine combined with an electric motor. A net 191 horsepower is available when the two power supplies combine. You can expect a speed of 47 miles per hour when the car runs on the electric motor alone, but assistance is available on demand from the gas engine when needed. Mileage is around 41 miles per gallon, and base price for this model is $28,100.
The Tesla Roadster
This roadster is not in everyone’s price range, but it will eliminate dependence on oil because it is 100% electric powered. It can be recharged on or off-grid and touts 88% efficiency compared to 20-25% efficiency of gas-powered cars. The Tesla is a stunning sports car that is capable of high-end performance with a 0-60 acceleration in 3.7 seconds and goes 245 miles per charge. You can order online from their website, or you can visit one of their dealers. The Tesla Roadster starts at $101,500.
Miles Walker is a freelance writer and blogger who usually compares car insurance deals over at CarinsuranceComparison.Org.
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