Thursday, December 22, 2011

Hybrid Vehicles 25% Safer In Accidents

In the pre-hybrid era, higher fuel efficiency often meant smaller, lighter cars and higher injury probability in a crash.  Better fuel economy linked to less safety.  Not anymore.

The Highway Loss Data Institute calculates that the odds of being hurt in a hybrid during a crash is 25% less than if one is in a non-hybrid. www.ens-newswire.com/ens/dec2011/2011-12-19-091.html. Why?

Weight is the answer.  Hybrids are 10% heavier on average as a result of the battery backs.  That works out to about 300 to 500 pounds more for the hybrids.  The bigger mass is protective during a crash.

Hybrids provide better fuel economy and better crash protection. The wonder of technological advances.

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