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Seattle Auto Show Official Guide
T
hese days, the hybrid
is in the mainstream
of the auto world. Hy-
brids are vehicles that use two
different sources of energy to
move — currently, this means
gasoline engines and electric
motors. Utilizing two power
sources generates fuel econo-
my through more efficient use
of fuel — the result is often
performances of 50 mpg or
higher.
Hybrids use many advanced
technologies, including:
•
Electric motor drive/
assist, in which the electric
motor supports and boosts
the engine during accelerating,
passing and climbing.
•
Regenerative braking,
which generates electricity by
creating energy through the
braking process.
•
Automatic start/shutoff,
wherein a computer turns off
the engine when the vehicle
comes to a stop, thereby pre-
venting wasted energy while
idling.
Led by the phenomenal suc-
cess of the Toyota Prius (now
in crossover and compact
versions), most manufactur-
ers offer at least one version
of a hybrid. The technology
is being applied to every-
thing, from trucks (Chevrolet
Silverado and GMC Sierra)
to luxury vehicles (BMW
ActiveHybrid 3 and Mercedes
Benz M-Class) to sedans (Ford
Fusion and Buick LaCrosse) to
SUVs (Toyota Highlander and
Cadillac Escalade).
Whether compact or
cruiser-class, utilitarian or
luxurious, you’ll find a hybrid
for every taste and budget.
Hybrid-happy shoppers have lots of options
Above: BMW ActiveHybrid 3. Below left: Cadillac Escalade. Below right: Infiniti M Line Hybrid.
