A new generation of hybrid gas-electric and all-electric cars — including the 2011 Chevy Volt and Nissan Leaf — has arrived, with much hype attending their launch.
There is the promise of dramatic increases in fuel economy — but less mention of real-world downsides, including high purchase price and total operating costs. Here’s a look at what’s on deck — including both the good and the bad:
2011 Chevrolet Volt
Though technically a hybrid because it has both a gasoline engine and a battery pack/electric motor, it differs from current hybrids in that its gas-burning engine does not directly propel the vehicle at any time. Instead, the gas engine functions as a portable, onboard generator — providing electricity to power the car’s electric motor when the batteries run low. The battery pack and electric motors are what actually move the car down the road. The Volt also has “plug-in” capability, meaning its batteries can be charged up via common 110 Volt household outlets when it is parked, such as while you are at work or overnight at your home.
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