KPLC 7 News, Lake Charles, LouisianaFuel Cost Feeds Hybrid Craze

Fuel Cost Feeds Hybrid Craze

August 26, 2005
Reported by Vince Atkinson

The high cost of fuel has been on everyone's mind this summer. To save money some people have started car pooling, others are simply trying to drive less. For many people here in Southwest Louisiana staying home is not an option. Skyrocketing gasoline is fueling business for the hybrid car industry.

As gas prices continue to rise more and more people are looking for news ways to save money. The pain at the pump is feeding the craze for hybrid cars. Auto makers Ford, Honda, Lexus, Mercury, and Toyota have all seen an increase in hybrid sells. Bo Kelley with Billy Navarre Honda says, "The higher the gas prices go the more the sells are picking up."

But are hybrid cars really worth it? 7 News decided to take one for a test drive and find out. The hybrid car we drove seemed surprisingly normal, with one big difference, much better gas mileage. The engineering varies on the different makes and models, but the basic concept is the same. These cars and SUV's run off of a combination of gas and electric power.

The obvious reasons for buying a hybrid car is for better gas mileage, but that is not the only way you will be saving money. The federal government is also providing tax credits for first time hybrid buyers. This is particularly important for car shoppers. As a general rule, hybrids cost a few thousand more than similar traditional cars. Quincy Broussard with Billy Navarre Honda says, "They are basically the same price. If you add up the tax deduction and the gas mileage it basically all equals out."

Hybrids can save you a bundle at the pump, but finding the hybrid of your choice is not always easy. Bob Rodgers with Lake Charles Toyota says, "They are still not available on most dealers lots as stock items, they have to be ordered." 7 News did find several hybrids in stock at area car dealerships, but if you have a particular make and model in mind you may have to wait a few weeks for it to arrive.

Nearly every major car company has plans to launch new hybrid models in the near future. Chevrolet, GMC., and Toyota are even introducing hybrid pick up trucks.