hybrid technology library

 

As hybrid technology evolves, hybrid car owners will reap the benefits of lower emissions and fuel consumption. Check out this section to learn about all the amazing breakthroughs in the field of hybrid technology.

Featured Article:  How Hydrogen Cars Work

Hydrogen is the most abundant element on Earth. We've known how to harness its power since the early 1800s. So, why do some experts say hydrogen-powered cars are still decades away from mass production? See more »

How SmartWay Vehicles Work

How SmartWay Vehicles Work

You're in luck if you're in the market for a fuel-efficient car, truck or SUV -- there are quite a few options available. But what if you want a vehicle that's a certified environmental performer?

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How Solar- vehicle Ventilators Work

How Solar- vehicle Ventilators Work

You know that your car's interior tends to get hot -- dangerously hot -- in the summer. A solar vehicle ventilator would help drivers cool off by using the sun's energy to blow hot air out of your car and draw cooler air inside.

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How the Fisker Karma Works

How the Fisker Karma Works

There's little doubt that the 2010 Fisker Karma, a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle, has the looks to compete with any luxury sedan currently on the market. But how does the Fisker Karma perform?

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How the Ford Fusion Hybrid Works

How the Ford Fusion Hybrid Works

The 2010 Ford Fusion may have the outward appearance of a typical Ford sedan; however, underneath its shiny skin is a high-tech, fuel-sipping, gas electric hybrid drivetrain that's sure to impress.

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How the Honda Civic Hybrid Works

How the Honda Civic Hybrid Works

The Honda Civic and hybrid technology seem to be two automotive concepts that were made for each other -- an ideal pairing. But what makes the Honda Civic hybrid so different from the standard Civic?

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How the Honda CR-Z Works

How the Honda CR-Z Works

Honda's taking a new approach to hybrid car design with its latest concept -- the CR-Z. But what makes the CR-Z so different from every other hybrid car currently on the road?

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How the Hybrid Tax Credit Works

How the Hybrid Tax Credit Works

If you buy a new hybrid car between Jan. 1, 2006 and Dec. 31, 2010, you may be eligible for a pretty significant tax credit. But how do you know if you're eligible? And how do you redeem it?

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How the Porsche Panamera Hybrid Works

How the Porsche Panamera Hybrid Works

From the start, Porsche has produced a lineup of cars that are exciting to drive. The latest Porsche -- the Porsche Panamera -- is no exception. But do you know what makes the Porsche Panamera unique?

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How the SEAT Leon Twin Drive Ecomotive Works

How the SEAT Leon Twin Drive Ecomotive Works

With the Spanish Minister of Industry promising one million all-electric vehicles on Spain's streets by 2014, a new hybrid plug-in concept from Spanish automaker SEAT is a step in the right direction.

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How the Toyota A-BAT Hybrid Truck Works

How the Toyota A-BAT Hybrid Truck Works

When you think of a hybrid vehicle, chances are, it's not a pickup truck. You're not alone. But that just may change with the introduction of the A-BAT, a compact hybrid pickup truck from Toyota.

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How the Toyota CS&S Works

How the Toyota CS&S Works

Introduced at the Frankfurt Auto Show in 2003, the Toyota CS&S concept car is a mix of real-world technology and futuristic gadgetry. Find out what makes the CS&S an out of the ordinary concept car.

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How the Toyota FT-HS Works

How the Toyota FT-HS Works

Hybrid cars aren't generally thought of as sports cars -- not right now, anyway. But if the Toyota FT-HS Hybrid Sports Concept ever makes it into production, you may have a very different opinion.

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How the Toyota Hybrid X Works

How the Toyota Hybrid X Works

When it debuted at the Geneva Auto Show in 2007, many people thought Toyota's Hybrid X concept car would be the next-generation Prius. We know better now, but what does the future hold for Hybrid X?

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How the Toyota Prius Works

How the Toyota Prius Works

The 2010 Toyota Prius is the third generation of the model that has practically become synonymous with the term hybrid car. But what makes this design so popular among hybrid car buyers?

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How the Venturi Astrolab Works

How the Venturi Astrolab Works

The Astrolab is Venturi's latest energy-autonomous automobile. This sporty lightweight literally gets a charge out of the sun, thanks to the photovoltaic cells covering its surface.

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Top 10 Alternative Fuels on the Road Right Now

Top 10 Alternative Fuels on the Road Right Now

When it comes to alternative fuels for cars and trucks, you may think you already know all the options. But do you think you can you list 10 alternative fuels already in use? We can.

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What are the most difficult standards to meet for an alternative fuel car?

What are the most difficult standards to meet for an alternative fuel car?

For conventional gasoline and diesel-powered vehicles, fuel economy numbers may be the toughest standards to meet in the coming years. But what issues will alternative fuel vehicles need to overcome?

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What is my vehicle's air pollution score?

What is my vehicle's air pollution score?

Air pollution and fuel efficiency used to be the last things car buyers considered before making a purchase. Times have changed, and green drivers need to know their vehicle's air pollution score.

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What is my vehicle's greenhouse gas score?

What is my vehicle's greenhouse gas score?

The United States Environmental Protection Agency can help you choose a car that's environmentally responsible. Do you know your vehicle's greenhouse gas score?

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What is the difference between the Prius and the Prius Touring?

What is the difference between the Prius and the Prius Touring?

The Toyota Prius and Prius Touring models share many similarities as well as differences. Most of the commonalities lie in the drivetrain, but the Touring's perks set it apart from the Prius.

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