Common Problems Of Hybrid Cars

By Author: Marty Vergel Baes
Total Articles: 423
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There are many problems that confront hybrid car ownership. Despite its popularity, critics of hybrid vehicles try to point out some negative comments against its performance. This is the one of the reasons why most car buyers who conducted an extensive car research about hybrid cars are not open to the idea of buying hybrid cars. They still prefer to purchase the conventional gas-powered versions. Some of the most common problems with hybrid cars are written below.

1. Cost

The cost of a hybrid car is one of the most significant criticisms that critics try to use against it. This is because hybrid cars are sold at higher prices compared to gas powered vehicles. Although you may find an affordable hybrid car as you conduct a car research, majority of the vehicles are sold at higher prices.

The price of a hybrid car is affected by the cost of technologies and gadgets installed in it. Expensive gadgets such as powerful electric motors and lithium-ion batteries require higher capital outlay on ...
... the part of car makers. The cost of these gadgets is eventually passed on to the consumer through the hybrid car's price.

2. Slower acceleration

Another problem encountered by hybrid vehicles its inability to accelerate faster. Compared to gas powered vehicles, hybrids need to attain a specific speed to accelerate. In addition to this, the vehicle travels at lower speed when it is propelled by the electric motor that is designed for low speed propulsion.

3. The battery of the hybrid requires regular replacement

The batteries that provide power to the hybrid car's electric motor are designed to supply the needed charge within a specified distance. Most of these batteries are created to cover a maximum distance of 80,000 miles without replacement. When this maximum distance is reached, the batteries are then subjected for replacement.

The regular replacement of the hybrid car's batteries became a problem since these are very expensive. This is further complicated by the fact the supply of battery replacements is limited. Hybrid owners usually need to order this directly from the car makers and the delivery usually takes a couple days. This also involves additional expenses for freight services.

4. Hybrids are vulnerable to damages

To increase its speed, car makers use lightweight materials to build the hybrid car's body. These materials are not strong enough to withstand damages caused by accidents. Given this fact, there is a greater risk of injuries and deaths to the hybrid occupants in the event of collision.

Compared to conventional cars, hybrid cars are usually compact and made of lightweight materials. These materials make hybrid cars less resilient to impacts and are easily torn apart. This situation encouraged hybrid car makers to install more advanced safety gadgets to hybrid cars. The added safety gadgets installed eventually increases the car's price.