Hybrid vehicles, a combination of small internal combustion engines and battery packs, are also quickly gaining a foothold in the auto industry. Normally powered by electric motors, hybrids are able to power up the internal combustion motor when needed, such as when climbing up to the Siskiyou pass or when the batteries run low. When simply cruising or for light duty around town, the electric motor powers the wheels and the engine shuts off until needed. During deceleration or braking, the engine shuts down. The first of these vehicles produced by Toyota will be in showrooms in Japan this fall and may soon be seen motoring on our shores.
Domestic producers are just months away.
Both Hybrid and Electric vehicles rely on conventional technology in order to provide movement. Electric vehicles must be plugged in to charge. This electricity has to come from somewhere. Hybrid autos need gasoline or diesel fuel in order to charge and run their small engines. Nevertheless, there is something better.