Hybrid and Electric Cars On the Rise

How can you have more fun driving, help the environment, and cut your driving costs in half? The folks at National Drive Electric Week are dedicated to informing the public that the answer isn’t in the distant future. It’s actually been available to us for more a decade. In 2015, hybrid and electric cars are a more viable driving choice than ever.
 
Even though these wonderful inventions first hit the market in 1999, according to Hybridcars.com, still less than 10 percent of the U.S. population own a hybrid or electric vehicle, even though 39 percent of drivers consider buying one.
So what is keeping the majority of drivers from taking the plunge? The organizers of National Drive Electric Week have been scratching their heads on that question since 2011, when they decided to promote the concept. Their mission is to help break the ice and get more people into hybrid electric cars. Last week, from September 12-20, National Drive Electric Week sponsored 178 events across the U.S. to raise awareness about our environment, promote green vehicles and have fun!
The future does look bright for green vehicles. Ownership of hybrid and electric cars in the U.S. has steadily increased since 2007. If that trend continues as it is, our air will be cleaner, our roads quieter, and our national carbon footprint lower.
To help with this transition, Organic Spa Magazine compiled a list of hybrid cars that can fit any lifestyle. Keep them in mind when you make your next automobile purchase—you may inspire someone else to take the hybrid plunge when they get their next car.
Nissan Leaf
This little 5-passenger hatchback is the most popular electric vehicle on the market. Purely a plug-in, it will net 80 miles of driving with a nightly charge. Owners report their monthly electric bills going up anywhere from $15 to $50 a month depending on how much they drive. For all, the Leaf saves them more than two-thirds their monthly gas cost! nissanusa.com 
Honda Accord Plug-in Hybrid
The Accord hybrid offers a popular and proven design that feels like a sporty mid-level sedan. Where it differs is it 115 miles per gallon equivalent. In spite of this amazing efficiency, it can go 0-60 in 7.7 seconds while maintaining smooth acceleration. honda.com
Mercedes S550 Plug-in Hybrid
For a little more luxury and power in your hybrid, the Mercedes S550 delivers. It incorporates a 329-horsepower V-6 engine with its electric motor to create a smooth and powerful crossover. You can floor it and go 0 to 60 in 5.2 seconds, or you can cruise on the freeway and get an average of 40 miles to the gallon. mbusa.com
Tesla Model S
Tesla Motors has been on the forefront of the electric vehicle market for years. The Model S is Tesla’s most popular car and has proven to be one of the safest; earning 5-star ratings in all categories of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration crash test. This sedan is large enough to fit the whole family, yet light enough to go from 0 to 60 MPH in 2.8 seconds, all without a drop of gasoline! teslamotors.com