Unlike the conventional cars that make use of a single source of energy, a hybrid car runs on a combination of a battery and a fuel engine. However, these two sources are used alternatively by the car and are not merged with each other. Hybrid cars are gaining popularity because of their economical, social, and environmental benefits. But, these ‘green cars’ also have some disadvantages which should be kept in mind before considering them for a purchase.
Following are the 5 main drawbacks of a hybrid car:
1) The main shortcoming of a hybrid car that prevents it from gaining popularity with the masses is its high cost. It has also been estimated that the price of hybrid cars will increase over the years, inviting more troubles for the buyers. The fuel savings expected in a hybrid car are also believed to be a bit exaggerated, when compared to the total costs of purchasing and maintaining a hybrid car.
2) Another disadvantage is that the acceleration of most hybrid cars is not exhilarating. That is, they tend to accelerate at a slower speed when compared to the conventional gas-powered cars. To put in simple words, you would not be able to achieve the anticipated speed within the same time period in a hybrid car, than you would in cars that are powered only by gasoline. This feature of a hybrid car will certainly make you feel unsafe while driving as you would not be able to keep pace with the other normal cars on the road.
3) The third disadvantage of a hybrid car is the high cost of its batteries. Although the battery pack comes with an extended warranty, it needs to be replaced on completing 80,000 miles. Depending on the model of your car, this battery pack may cost you anything between $5,000 and $8,000. Therefore, if you are a frequent traveler, a hybrid car is definitely not a good choice for you.
4) In order to facilitate high speeds, hybrid cars are made using light-weight body materials and are kept small in size. Owing to their small size and light weight, they become more vulnerable to serious damage when involved in any accident, small or big.
5) As these cars are new and expensive, their stocks are limited and are not available in all parts of the country. Also, there are not many skilled hybrid car repair mechanics. So, you can imagine the kind of troubles you will have to face if you buy an expensive hybrid car from a place far away from your residence, and then, when required, get it repaired from a local unskilled repair mechanic!
Hybrid cars do have the above mentioned disadvantages, but that does not mean they are not worth buying at all. Just like any other new technology, hybrid cars also have their pros and cons. They are environment friendly and help in saving a lot of fuel. So, if you can really afford to buy and maintain a hybrid car, you should definitely go for it.
