*quiz

mpg above 40 (click here). Diesels, such as the Volkswagen Golf, can’t match the Prius or the Honda Insight, but they do outpace hybrid SUVs.

Despite hybrids’ stellar fuel economy, the gains aren’t enough to sound a death knell for non-hybrids. It’s the plug-in hybrid, or PHEV, that may start the tolling. Take an HEV, add a battery that charges from a standard 120-volt socket, and the result is a car that can achieve 100 mpg—with almost no tailpipe emissions. CalCars and other advocacy groups are pushing PHEVs as the future of achievable, non-polluting technology. At 100 mpg, adoption may come sooner rather than later.

Only you know if a hybrid makes sense for your family. Take this quiz to gauge your hybrid readiness.

1. Do you drive more than 15,000 miles per year? Y N

Payback Beyond the Pump

Hybrids bear benefits beyond fuel economy, notably a federal tax incentive. As of January 1, 2006, a new tax credit supplants the old $2,000 deduction. Each qualifying vehicle earns a different tax credit according to a complex formula. Based upon American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy estimates, credits range from $250 for the GMC Sierra to $3,150 for the Prius.

There are state and local incentives too. Some states allow hybrids to speed along in the HOV lane even with a single occupant. Other states and municipalities offer free parking for hybrids, exemptions from emissions testing and reduced registration fees. There are also local tax credits and pur-chase-incentive programs for individuals and businesses.

Decisions, Decisions…

Buying a hybrid is more complex than other car purchases because there are more factors to consider. Whether you make your next vehicle a hybrid or decide to watch from the sidelines a little longer, know that the latest HEV models offer more choices and options than ever before and hybrid technology just keeps getting better.

2. Are there fewer than five people in your household? Y N

3. Do you do drive mostly in stop-and-go conditions? Y N

4. Does your current vehicle get less than 22 miles per gallon? Y N

5. Are there HOV lanes where you live?* Y N

6. Do you pay for parking more than three days per week? Y N

7. Does gas cost more than $2.75 where you live? Y N

8. Are you willing to wait six months to take delivery on your new car? Y N

9. Do you typically keep a vehicle for five years or more? Y N

10. Are you willing to pay more for earth-friendly products? Y N

See how others vote SUBMIT

BENJAMIN TOMKINS, A PORTLAND-BASED WRITER AND EDITOR, WRITES ABOUT SUSTAINABILITY ISSUES. HE IS ON THE WAITING LIST TO BUY A HYBRID.

The 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid SUV’s instrument panel features a hybrid energy flow graphic, and a fuel economy display to remind you that you really are saving gas.

RATE YOUR HYBRID READINESS BY YOUR

NUMBER OF “YES” ANSWERS.

1–2: A hybrid isn’t for you right now.

3–5: You’re almost there, but wait a year.

6–8: The only question is which hybrid is right for you.

9–10: Time to consider getting a second hybrid.

Learn more:

The Union of Concerned Scientists offers a personalized buying guide to help you learn more about the hybrid model that will fit your needs.