BENEFITS OF HYBRIDS

The use of hybrid technology results in less fuel being used during portions of a vehicle’s drive cycle. This translates into both fuel cost savings as well as a reduction in both smog related emissions and CO2, a greenhouse gas.

Internationally, there is concern about the impact that rising levels of greenhouse gases have on global warming. Canada, along with the vast majority of industrialized countries, has signed the Kyoto Accord committing to reducing greenhouse gas emissions to a level 6% less than they were in 1990. As vehicles are a large contributor to Canada’s greenhouse gas emissions hybrids offer a significant new technological way to reduce these emissions.

It is important to note that the Energuide ratings are based on a standardized test procedure that allows fuel consumption comparisons between vehicle models. The actual fuel use performance of a vehicle, including hybrids, is often difficult to replicate in the real world.

City ratings for most hybrids are significantly better (more fuel efficient) than for similar model non-hybrids. This is due to the fact that a significant benefit of hybrid technology occurs in urban environments where the engine cycles on and off in stop/go traffic as well as reducing idling time. Owners of hybrids who drive mainly on highways may not achieve as significant fuel savings relative to comparable model non-hybrid vehicles.

Reduced Emissions
As a result of emission technologies and reduced fuel consumption, a hybrid vehicle produces fewer greenhouse gas and tailpipe emissions than a similar conventional vehicle.

Greenhouse Gases
As the table above shows the release of carbon dioxide is directly related to fuel consumption and the lower fuel consumption of hybrids results in a vehicle that has lower greenhouse gas emissions per kilometre travelled.

According to Environment Canada each litre of gasoline burnt will produce 2.36 kg of CO2. For every 500 litres of fuel that aren't consumed as a result of driving a hybrid, over a tonne of CO2 is prevented from being emitted into the atmosphere.

Tailpipe Emissions
The Toyota Prius, Honda Civic Hybrid, Honda Insight, and Ford Escape Hybrid have been certified by the California Air Resource Board as Ultra Low Emission (ULEV) vehicles or PZEV (Partial Zero Emission Vehicles). These vehicles incorporate significant emission reduction technologies such as:

• Advanced hydrocarbon (HC) absorbing units
• Vapour-reducing fuel tank with a plastic liner to minimize gas vapour
• Small, light-weight battery pack
• Very efficient and effective catalytic converters

As a result these vehicles will produce less Nitrous Oxides (NOx), Hydrocarbons (HC), Particulate Matter (PM) and Carbon Monoxide (CO).