Hybrid discussion

[mdcheif]

Register to stop seeing this ad!

So hybrids are "good". or so they say.

What is the final word on the mahindra hybrid diesel, did they scrape the idea?
Anyone have information on that?


On a further thought, are you really being green by buying a hybrid. Many say that the extra energy used for all the extra components on the car is just not worth it.

Are Hybrids Really Green - An Economic analysis of the real cost and benefits of owning a hybrid

Not the best link, but there is some scientific fact behind what I say. What is your thought on this? Would you pay extra for a hybrid? If you would, what is your main reason why? After learning what I'm saying here, would you still want a hybrid?

[Andy]

Last I heard Mahindra was planning the Hybrid for 2011.

I would not pay more for a hybrid. I've heard that people that have Prius's like them, and I like that I hear words like "instant torque" come from people's mouths when they talk about them. However, I'm a big fan of the plain diesel engine. I currently drive a Dodge Cummins, and I love it.

[mdcheif]

Nice. True that seems to be a lot more to an engine I'd like to bother with. What is the deal with instant torque though?

[Hughlysses]

I agree- I can't see investing in one. As far as cars, there have been several comparison tests which show the VW Jetta TDI diesel is significantly better than the Toyota Prius hybrid from both an economic and "green" standpoint (not to mention being more fun to drive). I'd think this would be even more true for a truck.

I've owned a Jetta TDI for a little over 2 years now. The engine in that car (especially compared to the wimpy gas 4-banger in my Ford Ranger) made me really question WHY nobody is building small diesel trucks in the U.S.

[Andy]

Originally Posted by mdcheif

Nice. True that seems to be a lot more to an engine I'd like to bother with. What is the deal with instant torque though?

Well, I'm not a mechanic by any means so hopefully I dont sound like an idiot . But I thought someone was telling me that there is no lag when you start off because you start off in electric and so you have instant power. Limited on power for sure, but what you have is instant. Does that make sense?

[mdcheif]

Sure a bit, so the electric would kick it right before that diesel lag 1st gear?

[Andy]

Right, I think. Since it starts out in electric there is no lag.