Originally Posted by
BarracksSi
Speaking of which, we can't yet say which new technology will become the most popular. The latest issue of Road & Track goes over all of the hybrid and alternative technologies either already on the market or in the pipeline, and honestly, there are a LOT. It's crazier than the variety of powerplants at the beginning of the automobile itself. Naturally, then, there's a sense of trepidation among potential buyers who aren't early adopters and haven't jumped on the hybrid bandwagon.
+1 If you are currently needing a new car, you really ought to wonder if you should spend mega-bucks on technology that is likely to be "old" and maybe even potentially useless within a few year. Should you consider a gas/electric hybrid? They now cost over $25K and to be honest the mileage claims I hear aren't much better than gasoline vehicles of 20 years ago.
In terms of what my family needs. My wife really wants us to keep one car. I keep thinking that this vehicle should probably be electric. I say this because she actually doesn't drive very much (I get around town on bike...) and if it is necessary to make a long trip out of town, renting a car is an attractive option. Another issue in favor of the electric vehicle is that gas vehicles that don't get much mileage tend to go downhill pretty quickly. And, if electric, the vehicle should be pretty damn small. Maybe about the size of the old Austin mini... or something like those new French vehicles... the Smartcar.