Although it is a relatively new concept, Hybrid cars are fast becoming a phenomenon that many people are investing in. Yet, if I were to walk down the street and ask a stranger whether they knew exactly what a hybrid car was, and what they can do, I can almost guarantee that they probably wouldn't have the slightest clue. So for those of you out there that want to find out more, here's the simple low down on exactly what this craze is all about.

The first thing that people often get confused about is what the difference is between hybrid and electric cars. In electric cars there is a single electric motor connected to the wheels through a transmission. The power to run electric cars comes from an external source, which is more commonly known as a battery. The battery must be charged before the car is used and they generally last only a certain amount of time and kilometres. The motor in the car slows the vehicle and passes the energy back to the battery. This whole process makes the car lighter, and hence more fuel efficient.

Alternatively, hybrid cars are reliant on petroleum power as well as electric power. To put it simply, they are half/half, relying both on petrol AND battery power. This means they pollute more heavily than electric cars, which have zero emissions, yet they are still very environmentally friendly. They are also more efficient in the amount of kilometres and speed they can achieve compared to electric cars. Hybrid cars can be taken on long trips and essentially are more cost efficient.

Since the introduction of 'green cars', vehicle emissions of carbon monoxide and other harmful air pollutants have been reduced. In fact, driving a 'green car' reduces the number of greenhouse gases emitted by several tonnes! They also reduce the air pollution which contributes to a number of health issues and common diseases, which can aid to benefit the whole community. Driving an electric or hybrid car also reduces the use of oil and other car fluids which contribute to air pollution. This can effect the environment around us, compromising the growth of plants and harming animals. So, you could say that driving a 'green car' helps the WHOLE environment.

Most petrol-hybrids reduce lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions by around 25%, compared to an equivalent petrol car. In fact, all regulated emissions are reduced, including carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons and NOx of up to 90%! This is a remarkable amount, especially when all you have to do is change the kind of car you drive.

So, as you can see, green cars truly are the new way to go. They contribute to the preservation of all aspects of the environment, which can only be interpreted as a good thing, and the best thing of all is that they are generally cheaper to run! So, when hiring your next rental vehicle or buying a new car, be sure to check out the hybrid options and the rewards will abound!