Ecology vs. Economy

There is little doubt that driving hybrid vehicles is more ecologically sensible than their gas-burning counterparts. By being more fuel efficient through burning fewer fossil fuels on a per mile basis hybrids are responsible for the release of less carbon dioxide into the atmosphere and therefore less impact on the environment. However, there is a drawback to hybrid vehicles: the price.

Oftentimes hybrid vehicles can be up to $10,000 more than their gasoline kin (Edmunds.com). Manufacturers argue that this money can be recouped through savings at the pump, frequently using the looming specter of $4.00 per gallon gasoline to convince consumers to purchase hybrids. However, an Edmunds.com study (found here) examined these claims and discovered discrepancies in the theoretical savings. For instance, to recoup the cost difference (between hybrid vs. gasoline vehicles) for the Ford Escape gasoline must cost $5.60 per gallon (assuming annual driving rate of 15,000 miles) or the annual mileage would need to exceed 30,000 miles. The only comparison where the hybrid comes close is a Toyota Prius vs. a Toyota Camry.

Many people would love to make the ecological and nature-friendly choice when it comes to their automobile, but economic factors frequently dictate reality. Though hybrid sales continue to increase, they still only account for 3.4% of retail sales (Hybridautoreview.net). Until they become economically more sound, the average American will still be unable to make the ecological choice.

-Andrew Diamond