Hybrids Could Be 20% of All Cars by 2010

Motor, Nov 2004 by Nash, Tom

A new study suggests hybrid powertrains could be in 20% of all cars by the end of the decade. The study, by Booz Allen Hamilton, says that rising gas prices are changing the hybrid's fuel-saving quotient; most current hybrids command a $3000 to $5000 premium over gasoline-engine vehicles of the same kind, a cost that could be offset in five years through gas savings and tax rebates.

If automakers adopt hybrids as quickly as they did air bags and antilock brakes, hybrids could account for 20% of all vehicles by 2010-80%, if the numbers are extrapolated out to 2015. Several hybrids already on the market-Honda's Insight, Civic and Accord; Toyota's Prius; and Fords Escape-will be joined by many more in the coming years, including a Chevy Malibu, Toyota Highlander, Lexus RX 400h and Ford Fusion.