wrote:
> In alt.autos.ford FanJet > wrote:
>> No doubt, the same increase in efficiency could be realized,
>> and just as easily, from a gasoline engine only powered vehicle. Not
>> as
>
> Would that be the Honda Civic HX compared to the Honda Civic Hybrid?
> E-VTEC engine, CVT transmission, lighter car.
> HX 30/34mpg, 9/9 Emissions. Hybrid 47/48mpg, 9/10 Emissions.
>
> Or would it be the Escape 4cyl verses Escape Hybrid?
> Standard 4cyl-4wd-auto Pollution:6, 19/22mpg, Greenhouse:4
> Hybrid 4cyl-4wd-auto Pollution:9.5, 33/29mpg, Greenhouse:8
>
> There are manufacturers squeezing whatever they can out of
> conventional engines, and they've done a remarkable job compared to
> cars 30 years ago.

Manufacturers could do a lot more but there's no financial incentive from
anywhere to do so, so they don't. It's really that simple. Pushing
improvements of this sort is one of the areas we pay the Federal government.
Too bad they've been bought and paid for.

> Hybrid is the tool for today that's available to
> the masses. I think a plug in hybrid is the next step.

If they were available at equivalent prices. For now, hybrids are expensive
gadgets.