The Honda Insight was the first hybrid vehicle to be sold in the United States and has been available since late 1999. The electric motor is powered by nickel-metal hydride batteries. Hybrids use advanced engine-control units, which monitor and control the engine, generator, electric motor and battery pack so the engine and motor work together. The controller determines whether to have the engine run or not, whether to have the generator charge the battery, or whether to have the motor drive the wheels or store energy during braking. When the driver brakes or slows down, the car's wheels drive the electric motor, which acts as a generator and recharges the battery.
Hybrids are desirable to consumers who want to maximize their fuel economy.
The brochure states it has a 700-mile range on one tank of fuel. The Totota Prius gets an advertised 52 miles per gallon in the city and 45 miles per gallon on the highway, although Lakin said she gets about 40 miles per gallon. It has an advertised maximum range of 614 miles in the city and 531 miles on the highway. An interesting feature of the Prius is its energy screen, which shows energy consumption. Overall, Lakin said she is pleased with the performance of her car.