The hybrid hype

E: The Environmental Magazine, March-April, 2005 by Kathleen Stroh, Lawrence Rhodes

I was a bit disappointed to read rave reviews of the hybrid cars in Newsweek, but I considered the source, and the target market, and figured they were doing the best they could. I also thought it was time to start reading more progressive, environmentally aware magazines. So I really enjoyed my first read of E, until I got to the last page. I was shocked to read your review of hybrid cars (Earth Talk, November/December 2004) without any mention of alternative fuels or demands for higher standards.

While I support the mainstream auto industry for trying to appeal to car buyers of conscience, I already see them backsliding with the new SUVs that barely break 20 miles per gallon in fuel economy. Since when are we excited over 35 miles per gallon? I have a 1979 Mercedes diesel that gets 30 miles per gallon. An increase of five miles per gallon in 25 years is hardly technology at its finest. The diesel engine is currently capable of 50 miles per gallon, is much better suited to alternative fuels (I will be running on biodiesel within the next few months) and will soon be coming out with cleaner emissions. And don't forget that your gas-sipping hybrids are filling up with gas brought to you in diesel trucks.

Please get off the bandwagon and take a closer look at the hybrid. It is marketing hype from the auto industry. There are plenty of other options out there that deserve your support.

Kathleen Stroh

Via e-mail

Editor's Note: The "Q and A" Stroh refers to specifically asked: "How do hybrid cars get better fuel efficiency than traditional cars?" Stroh also seems to be ignoring the serious environmental challenges diesel engines (even when biodiesel-empowered) present. Particulate matter, exclusive to diesels, is a known carcinogen, and her '79 Mercedes wins no green prizes. Other Earth Talk columns, as well as numerous articles in E, have addressed some of her other points, including:. www.emagazine.com/view/?301 &src, www.emagazine.com/view/?1374&src, www.emagazine.com/view/?910&src.

Hybrids and PZEVs (Partial Zero Emission Vehicles) are OK, but ZEVs (Zero Emission Vehicles) are better. There are now many different models of electric scooters and small electric cars available, with prices starting at around 100 dollars. I hope you will consider recommending this solution to pollution. With some solar panels this amounts to free energy.

Lawrence Rhodes

San Francisco, CA