>>>New study shows some hybrids pay for themselves in three years.
>>>
>>>http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,210038,00.html
>>
>>Not unless you got the hybrid version cheap, got a big incentive, drive more than 500 miles a week and gas prices approach $5.00.
>>
>>For example:
>>
>>NMPG = Nonhybrid MPG 35
>>HMPG = Hybrid MPG 60
>>MilesWeek = 400 miles a week (more than most people drive)
>>HybridPremium = $3000
>>GasPrice = $2.79
>>
>>PayBackYears = HyBridPremium/(((MilesWeek*52)/NMPG-(MilesWeek*52)/HMPG)*GasPrice)
>>
>>Using the above numbers, it's over 4 years 4 months. And that doesn't even include the probably higher maintenance costs of the hybrid technologies. For Gas at $3.50 and 250 miles/week it's over 5.5 years. And most Hybrid premiums are larger than $3K. YMMV ;)
>
>Don't forget to factor in the need to replace the batteries after they can no longer be re-charged.

I just don't see hybrids as being viable until the cost difference is nearer to zero, or gas goes to $10.