5 main disadvantages of hybrid cars

Unlike conventional cars that use a single power source, a hybrid car is powered by a combination of battery and fuel engine. However, these two sources are used alternately by the car and do not merge with each other. Hybrid cars are gaining popularity due to their economic, social and environmental benefits. But, these ‘green cars’ also have some downsides that need to be considered before considering them for a purchase.

The following are the top 5 drawbacks of a hybrid car:

1) The main shortcoming of a hybrid car that prevents it from gaining popularity among the masses is its high cost. It has also been estimated that the price of hybrid cars will increase over the years, causing more problems for buyers. It is also believed that the expected fuel savings in a hybrid car are a bit exaggerated, compared to the total costs of buying 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 compared to conventional gasoline cars. Simply put, you would not be able to reach your intended speed in the same amount of time in a hybrid car as you would in gasoline-only cars. This feature of a hybrid car will certainly make you feel insecure while driving as you will not be able to keep up 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 must be replaced at 80,000 miles. Depending on the model of your car, this battery pack can cost you anywhere from $5,000 to $8,000. Therefore, if you are a frequent traveler, a hybrid car is definitely not a good option for you.

4) In order to facilitate high speeds, hybrid cars are made of lightweight body materials and kept small in size. Due to their small size and light weight, they become more vulnerable to serious damage when involved in any accident, small or large.

5) Since these cars are new and expensive, their stock is limited and they 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 problems you will have to deal with if you buy an expensive hybrid car in a place far from your residence and then, when necessary, have it fixed by an unqualified local mechanic!

Hybrid cars have the drawbacks mentioned above, but that doesn’t mean they’re not worth buying. Just like any other new technology, hybrid cars also have their pros and cons. They are friendly to the environment and help save a lot of fuel. So, if you can really afford to buy and maintain a hybrid car, you should definitely do it.