Ecological Disadvantages

	More car batteries will need to be made, creating a larger problemfor disposal of such batteries.
	HEVs do not totally eliminate burning of fossil fuels, they just delay the rate at which we burn them.

Consumer Disadvantages

	The price range for HEVs is $17,400 -> $26,000. The current price range does not target an average American household, let alone throughout the world.
	Demographical considerations: The engine only provides ~80 horse power and accelerates from 0-60 mph in over 12 seconds. The power provided by the engine might not be ideal for mountainous regions, or areas with severe winters.
	The manufactures have gone through considerable pains to reduce the weight of the vehicle so that it burns less gasoline while achieving a reasonable acceleration. This has raised questions as to how safe the car is when it is involved in an accident.
	HEVs are smaller, less comfortable, and provide much less storage space than an average conventional automobile.

References:

	An article on www.evworld.com
	An overview of hybrid technology at www.rqriley.com
	www.hybridcars.com

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Last updated: Nov.16.2000