In an effort to save money and to make less of an impact on the Internet, many people are choosing to purchase hybrid cars that will help them stretch their gas dollars.  These cars may help with saving money on gas, but what about when it comes to getting cheap auto insurance?  Can a hybrid car owner enjoy a savings on gas while also getting cheap auto insurance, or does purchasing a hybrid come at a price?

Saving on Gas 

There is no doubt that hybrids can help car owners save a significant amount of money when it comes to buying gas.  After all, this is the main reason so many people are looking toward purchasing hybrid vehicles.  With the help of an electric motor and batteries capable of storing energy that has been recovered during braking, the vehicles are able to use less gas.  One hybrid vehicle, the 2008 Toyota Prius, has an estimated MPG of 46 and the Honda Civic Hybrid gets 42 MPG. 

It is important to note, however, that there are actually different types of hybrid vehicles. While some are geared more toward helping the driver save on gas, others are meant to help increase performance.  Some sports cars, for example, add electric motors in order to increase their power.  While this type of vehicle uses less gas than a vehicle with a larger gas engine, it could actually use more gas than a vehicle without an electric motor might use.  The 2008 version of the Lexus GS 450h, for example, gets about 23 MPG with its combination engine while the 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid gets 32 MPG.  Therefore, you are not necessarily guaranteed to save on gas when you purchase a hybrid vehicle.

Obtaining Cheap Auto Insurance 

Another potential perk to purchasing a hybrid vehicle is that you may be able to obtain cheap auto insurance.  Some companies will provide discounts for hybrid cars, with some offering as much as a 10% discount.  Whether or not driving a hybrid will help you obtain cheap auto insurance depends largely upon the type of hybrid vehicle you purchase.  Therefore, if you are hoping to obtain cheap auto insurance with the help of your hybrid car, be sure to do some comparison shopping and to discuss rates with your agent in order to get the best deal possible.

Saving On Taxes 

In addition to potentially saving on gas and getting cheap auto insurance, you may also be able to qualify for tax breaks and discounts when you purchase a hybrid.  Some hybrid models qualify for federal tax incentives and many states also offer incentives for those that purchase hybrid vehicles.  Some also offer special toll incentives and parking incentives, but be sure to find out which vehicles qualify before making a purchase.

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