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i never verified it (and it's not as if i could REALLY verify it anyway), but i read that standard civics are overall more eco-friendly than hybrid civics in terms of production and ownership costs to the environment
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At this point and time some hybrids are more expensive to own as far as total cost of ownership. However, fuel price is going to go up, this can't be helped. As it does, even the most expensive hybrid will pay for itself. Their cost of manufacturing, in respect to the environment, are similar.
In the end hybrids are a pipe dream. They are being touted by politicians as a cure all and this is simply not the case. They will simply delay the inevitable. The next century will not be a prosperous one. I still think it is possible to solve our problems, but considering ITER (International fusion project) is 3 Years and 248 Days Past site designation due to political deadlock. They can't even agree on where to build it.
http://fire.pppl.gov/
If you watch this video:
http://128.42.10.107/media/Smalley_O...31101_300k.wmv
http://smalley.rice.edu/
Then if you look at our current political climate, you will see just how screwed me are.
Still hybrid cars are promoting enthusiasm and research. So hybrid cars help in multiple ways. They show politicians that there is political support and they promote technology development. Money is not a problem for solving this problem (a 5 cent nickel tax on gas would be enough). The problem is a lack of political commitment.
Zeno thinks we are screwed. And the more I learn about this subject, the more I am starting to agree with
Les Misanthrope.
Still, I'm not going to knock the hybrid car arguement. In a few short years hybrids will be a no brainer and almost everyone will have one. It just won't won't be a cure.