The growing appeal of hybrids

Honda has just launched its Insight hybrid. And Toyota is launching its new Prius hybrid later this year. Headlineauto’s news writer, Tony Lewis, reports on why we’re growing to love the green hybrid option. Hybrid cars are increasing in popularity. And there are new models on the way.

Honda has just launched its Insight. And Toyota is launching Prius Mk3 later this summer.

But what’s the fuss about hybrids now?

Well, hybrids are cars that supplement the petrol engine with a battery to boost performance – and clean up emissions.

Honda sold just 340 of its original Insight hybrid cars – a two-seater coupe – launched to a bemused public in 1999.

With the new Insight, on sale this month, Honda plans to sell 7,000-8,000 a year.

Steve Kirk, communications manager at Honda, likens the acceptance of hybrids to the gradual increase in awareness – then acceptance – of diesel-engined cars in the early 1990s.

John Kingston, Honda’s government affairs and environment manager, says the original Insight was a statement of intent. Now with new Insight, which is followed by the CRZ sports car hybrid (2010) and the Jazz hybrid (2011), that intent is translated into action.