Hybrid Technology

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?

By Josh Briggs

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?

By John Fuller

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.

By Kristen Hall-Geisler

You've probably noticed more and more hybrids on the road in recent years. Most major car makers now offer hybrid models -- but which ones do consumers prefer?

By Jamie Page Deaton

Many eco-friendly drivers wonder if a hybrid is too expensive to buy. Yes, they cost more than conventional cars, but they can be affordable with a few incentives.

By Kristen Hall-Geisler

If your goal is to save money at the fuel pump and to do your part in reducing tailpipe emissions, a hybrid car is an excellent choice. However, are you sacrificing speed for fuel efficiency?

By John Fuller

Most people associate hybrid engines with green driving, but how can drivers add more power to their vehicles? It's easier than it sounds, but trade-offs abound.

By Christopher Neiger

Some automakers are beginning to offer solar panels on their hybrid cars. One manufacturer even includes a solar panel on a non-hybrid car. So, how much added power can a solar panel really provide?

By John Fuller

Some car owners use an electric car conversion kit to make their vehicle all-electric. Others use the kits to add driving range to an already efficient hybrid car. But do these kits really work?

By John Fuller

The idea of a fully electric car may seem like a new thought -- but it's definitely not. In fact, the first practical electric cars were around long before gasoline-powered cars. So, what happened?

By John Fuller

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?

By Christopher Lampton

Most people know that the High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lane is for buses, carpool vans, motorcycles, emergency vehicles and cars and trucks with more than one occupant. But what if you drive a hybrid?

By John Fuller

There's a movement to get everyone onboard with the idea of alternative fuel vehicles. Hybrid cars are the popular choice right now. But if hybrid cars burn gasoline, aren't they still causing pollution?

By John Fuller

By now, it's probably safe to say that most people understand the fundamentals of hybrid car technology. But do you know how far back in history you have to go to discover the first hybrid car?

By Christopher Lampton

The goal of the emissions certification standard is to help your car run smoothly and fight global warming at the same time? All you have to do is head to your mechanic for an emissions test.

By Patrick E. George

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?

By John Fuller

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?

By John Fuller

It seems as though a lot of people are seriously considering the purchase of an alternative fuel vehicle. But have you thought about how you're going to fill it up or charge it when you need to?

By Terry V. Boyce

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.

By Akweli Parker