How can we make hybrid cars more affordable?

[Amanda]

Using the Democratic campaign slogan, "more affordable healthcare," how do we make them that way? In order to combat global warming, I think hybrids have to be more in access with the masses. I think the best solution is market COMPETITION because when Toyota started to build its Prius other car companies followed like Ford with its Escape and Mariner, GM with its Chevy Malibu and Cadillac Escalade, Daimler Chrysler with its Mercedes S-Class and Dodge Durango, and there are countless other companies joining. I think its because customers wanted them to be built and Toyota is approaching #1, or has it? I think tax incentives are better than tax penalties because it gives companies more money to not only increase the fuel economy for each model but can make it more RELIABLE. However, I might be wrong. What do you think? I want some great thought on this. Thank you.

[thedarkinall]

I know that the reliability of fuel cells (which run hybrids) is low...

[TonyB]

It's up to the auto manufacturers and the government...it costs a lot of money to make hybrid cars because they're such a small fraction of the automobile industry and require a lot of special attention...they aren't made (as far as I know) on the same assembly lines as regular cars.Big oil controls most of the auto industry, and as long as they have most of the say (and as long as we have oil), the hybrids will probably be more expensive.

[amansscientiae]

Honda is in the forefront... Their fuel-cell hydrogen car is to be offered for sale here next year... Not only that, but it can be refueled at home with nat. gas, and can supply your home with 5000 watts power if an outage occurs.... They have been working on this technology for 20 years, and are light-years ahead of competitors...

[dwella]

Some hybrid cars will make up for their premium cost because of higher gas prices and tax credits from the U.S. government on the more fuel efficient vehicles, Hybrid cars and trucks, which get improved mileage in city driving by running on a combination of gas and electric power,Hybrids currently account for 1 percent of new car sales in the United States.
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dwella

[lovely09]

We can see hybrid cars cost more than an ordinary car to the fact that it uses two or more distinct power sources to move the vehicle.Materials and equipments are expensive.If the materials for the conversion will become cheaper then it will be less expensive.

[greyback1142]

Whats the impact of hybrid cars on global warming?