My motivation to see how one person can reduce their carbon footprint has only increased as fuel prices have risen. I have long been interested in learning about hybrid technology in transport, so with this in mind, I recently had the opportunity of taking a “Lexus RX 400h”:http://www.lexus.co.uk/hybrid/ and a “Toyota Prius Hybrid car”:http://www.toyota.co.uk/cgi-bin/toyota/bv/frame_start.jsp?id=MSR_PRIUS&CampaignID=C2123&BrochureRCode=RC17207&TestdriveRCode=RC17246&LandingPage=Prius_C2123_Google for a test drive.

In the past, electric cars have been expensive and characterised by the reputation of low power and even lower performance. Nevertheless, I decided to keep an open mind because no matter how the car would perform, the sacrifice would surely be worthwhile in helping the environment.

From the moment I sat in the car with Plymouth Lexus Centre manager, Jonathan, I was impressed. Smooth and quiet, I had not even realised the engine had started until we pulled out from the parking space. Continuing onto a dual carriageway, I was intrigued to see how the car would perform. I was excited to learn that the RX 400h is capable of accelerating to 62mph in 7.6 seconds, its top speed registering at a remarkable 124mph. The combined CO2 emissions are 192g/km, much less than a petrol or diesel 4×4.

The Toyota Prius was equally as impressive using the same Hybrid Technology. Its max speed is 105mph with an acceleration of 0 – 62mph in 10.9 seconds. The most impressive feature of the Prius is the fact that its combined CO2 emissions are 104 g/km making it one of the greenest cars available.

So how does this Hybrid Technology work? The vehicle automatically checks optimum performance, fuel efficiency and emissions at all speeds, running on electric motors, a petrol engine, or a combination of the two. Unlike old electric cars, it does not require recharging via an external power source. Completely self sufficient, the batteries are charged by the engine or from using converting kinetic energy from breaking.

Overall, my test drive was a fantastic experience that proved Hybrid technology has come a long way over the years and that individuals can help make a difference.

“Find out how your car performs for its CO2 Emissions”:http://www.carpages.co.uk/co2/

“Lexus RX 400h website”:http://www.lexus.co.uk/hybrid/
“Toyota Prius Hybrid website”:http://www.toyota.co.uk/cgi-bin/toyota/bv/frame_start.jsp?id=MSR_PRIUS&CampaignID=C2123&BrochureRCode=RC17207&TestdriveRCode=RC17246&LandingPage=Prius_C2123_Google