Whether the expanded offerings take hold remains to be seen. However, with gasoline remaining in the $3.50 per gallon and higher range across the US, it would seem that the fuel efficiency offered by the various hybrids – including the long awaited plug-in – provides a nice incentive for car buyers. Stories of diminished battery life may concern some prospective buyers. However, Consumer Reports tested a 10 year-old Prius with 200,000 miles and found no degradation of the battery’s capacity.
The long term impact of hybrids and plug-in versions remains to be seen. As the styles and types of vehicles proliferate, the options should improve even further. We may be heading toward a future where Toyota’s “there’s one for everyone” line actually comes to pass.
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