Segway's P.U.M.A.

[manasecret]

Originally Posted by Professor S

Until hybrid/green vehicles can become economical as well as environemental, I think they'll remain a popular fad, but won't have staying power in the marketplace. Most hybrids sold today are $5,000 - $7,000 more than their traditional versions, and that translates to 7-11 years of use before the buyer sees any economic benefit from their purchase.

My car is way past its prime and so I've recently started looking into what cars are out there.

While for all cars where there is a "normal" version and also a "hybrid" version (like almost all hybrid cars on the market), the cost is an extra $5,000 - $7,000 (or more for luxury cars) and, I agree, it is not worth it.

But I was surprised by the price of the Prius, the lone car on the market (or one of two cars) where there is only one version and that is hybrid. At $22,000 new, I find that it is an extremely economical price for the car with the best mileage on the road and what has been rated by ConsumerReports as an extremely reliable vehicle. Compare that to the most popular car - the Toyota Camry for about $19,000. Or compare that to the price for mid-size trucks or small-size SUVs - about $21,000 - $23,000. Or to large trucks and SUVs - about $28,000 and up. To me, the Prius can easily compete economically with the cars that most Americans buy.

Of course, if you really need an SUV or truck, then a Prius won't suffice. But I reckon for the average Joe out there, a hauling vehicle isn't necessary for their daily life, and a five-seater with plenty of storage space will work great.

Now, compared to a bare-bones Honda Civic (which I believe is around $15,000) or a small truck (about $15,000), the Prius can't compete for the budget consumer. But at $22,000, it's not like it's a luxury price either.