Peruzzi Toyota Product Blog

If you have been following the news recently, you are probably well aware of the record-breaking sales figures on hybrid vehicles in the past several weeks. As gas prices have topped $4 per gallon in many areas, more consumers than ever before are trading in their SUVs and gas-guzzling luxury cars for something a bit more friendly at the pump. A brand new vehicle company is now poised to take a piece of the pie.

Aptera was founded five years ago by engineer Steve Fambro. Successful production of a mind-boggling prototype led the company to design a new and improved production model. The new Aptera Typ-1 is currently available for pre-order and is expected to be ready by the end of 2008.

The Typ-1 looks like something out of the old Jetsons cartoon. Three wheeled and classified as a motorcycle, the Typ-1 is rumored to comprise the ultimate in aerodynamics and fuel economy. The prototype achieved an amazing 230 miles per gallon, and it is estimated that the production model may top 300 miles per gallon.

Without a doubt, the Aptera Typ-1 is nothing short of extraordinary. Before you place your order, however, it is important to be aware of a few considerations. Most importantly, the Aptera is not a family car. Billed as a “2 + 1,” the vehicle comfortably seats two adults. The third seat is reportedly a baby seat between the two bucket seats. Families will still need another car that seats everyone.

The other consideration is that the Aptera is currently being sold only to residents of California. Although the company claims that it is working on increasing production to be able to sell on a national level, red tape and paperwork could cause a significant delay in national release. If you are currently in the market for a hybrid vehicle, waiting for an Aptera may not be practical.

If you would like to learn more about hybrid vehicles and the options that are available today, be sure to stop by our friendly local dealership. We will be happy to help you find the hybrid vehicle that is right for you.

Limos are generally not thought of as environmentally friendly vehicles. They tend to waste fuel and emit noxious fumes as they idle, sometimes waiting for long periods between runs. In New York City, however, this will soon cease to be a problem. Hybrid limos will soon become a reality in America’s busiest city, according to a recent story in the New York Times .

Under the plan that was recently rolled out by New York Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg, limos will be required to achieve 25 miles per gallon by 2009 and 30 miles per gallon in 2010. While hybrid vehicles are not strictly required under the plan, they are currently the only vehicles capable of meeting the city’s requirements.

The plan must still go before the Taxi and Limo Commission for final approval. If the plan is approved, limo owners will be required to replace their vehicles every six years. This would make all limos in New York City compliant by 2013.

Tax breaks and low-cost financing will help limo owners afford the price of replacement. Taxis in New York City are under a similar plan already, and most drivers have found that the program is helpful to them. In this time of rising fuel costs, the cost savings of hybrid vehicles can be significant, particularly for those who drive for a living.

The hybridization of New York cabs and limos demonstrates public and official approval of hybrid technologies. If you would like to learn more about hybrid vehicles and the ways in which they help you save money, we invite you to visit our convenient Toyota dealers - Allentown. We would be happy to answer any questions you have, and help you to select the Toyota hybrid that is best for you.

Hybrid vehicles are becoming increasingly popular in light of today’s skyrocketing fuel prices. Yet many consumers are not yet aware of exactly how the hybrid works. Last week, we gave you an overview of the hybrid engine and discussed its performance. Today, we will take you through some enhancements that have been implemented by hybrid designers to increase the vehicles’ efficiency.

Reduced Need for the Engine
Hybrids are designed to draw a great deal of operating power from the batteries rather than the engine. For example, the Prius can be started using the generator. The engine does not turn on until much of the acceleration has already taken place.

Advanced Aerodynamics
Hybrids are designed to be as aerodynamic as possible. This minimizes the energy that must be expended to cut through air resistance. The energy savings translates into improved fuel efficiency.

Lightweight Materials
By reducing the weight, manufacturers have also decreased the amount of power that is required, particularly when going uphill. Space age composites are often used to provide the strength and safety of a traditional vehicle while reducing the car’s overall weight.

Low Drag Tires
Traditional car tires can create a lot of drag, forcing the vehicle to work harder. Many hybrids use special tires that are stiffer and more highly inflated than traditional tires, allowing for greater efficiency.

Above are just a few of the many ways that hybrid designers have implemented features that can help to increase fuel efficiency. Tomorrow we will discuss some easy steps that you can take to further maximize the potential of your hybrid. In the meantime, why not visit our friendly local dealership to take a look at our hybrid vehicles for yourself?