Keep it simple (KIS). Fewer parts mean lower costs. With fewer parts, there’s less chance of failure. This isn’t about assembly. You must also consider inventory, design, manufacturing, and payment.
That’s why I’m not a fan of hybrid cars. They seem excessively complicated. A small gasoline engine charges batteries, which then power electric motors. Plus, many hybrids use a direct drive from the gas engine to the wheels, adding more complexity.
I prefer diesel engines, especially the new small-block ones for compact cars. These designs aren’t new. In the late 1970s, Volkswagen made the diesel Rabbit, achieving 50 miles per gallon or better. Today’s small diesel engines are even better, reaching over 60 miles per gallon.
If you’ve traveled to Europe in the last 20 years, you might have driven cars with these engines. These small diesel cars have better fuel economy than U.S. gasoline engines. But, for some reason, they are hard to find here. That’s ironic and puzzling. They are the only vehicles I would consider buying new.
For daily use, I’ve driven Honda Civics and Accords for the last 25 years. My family has owned five, and we still have four. We bought them used, kept them running well, and they’ve proven reliable, safe, and efficient. Fuel efficiency ranges from 35 to 40 miles per gallon or more, depending on the season, load, and trip length. Until cars hit 50 to 60 miles per gallon, I have no reason to buy another vehicle, especially a new one.
Many car makers, like Ford, Honda, and Volkswagen, have created small diesel engines. These engines are very efficient. Some manufacturers turbocharge these engines. A turbocharger replaces engine size with a small, reliable air compressor. It uses exhaust energy to boost power without wasting it. This improved efficiency means these engines often outperform gasoline-electric hybrids.
Mileage isn’t the only factor to consider. Total operating cost matters too. This includes the purchase price, financing, insurance, depreciation, and maintenance. Longevity is important as well. Hybrids often require battery replacements every few years, which can be costly. So, I won’t be buying a hybrid anytime soon. My old Civics work fine for me.
Norman T. Neher, P.E.
Analytical Engineering Services, Inc.
Elko New Market, MN
www.aesmn.org