Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 2008/10/28
[Author Prev] [Author Next] [Thread Prev] [Thread Next] [Author Index] [Topic Index] [Home] [Search]I see significantly improved mpg numbers as the best economy/environment compromise for the near future with high energy prices. Joanne's 2007 Honda Fit is getting 53 mpig on the highway and 40 mpig around town. The family (manual trans) 2004 Civic got over 48 mpig on the highway between Calgary and Vancouver this summer and I was crusing at 80 mph a good part of the way. An good example of what's coming from Japan is the 2010 clean diesel Accord which will give over 70 mpig if it lives up to the hype. See: http://news.cnet.com/8301-10784_3-9712548-7.html I don't see a great future for battery driven vehicles in the short term when all factors/numbers are considered. Greg LorenzoCalgary, Canada> Date: Mon, 27 Oct 2008 22:37:14 -0700> To: lug@leica-users.org> From: henningw@archiphoto.com> Subject: Re: [Leica] euro vs dollar and leica> > I've read many of the comparisons, and not only from hybrid oriented sites.> > As I mentioned, the fuel economy achieved depends a lot on where and > how you drive. Whether or not you get a payback depends on how many > miles you drive per year, and how close the Prius comes to being the > type of car you want/need/enjoy. I'm very familiar with the Prius, as > I get to drive one at various times every year. I mention the Prius > as it's the only one that is truly in the running, as the other > hybrids are definitely not economically sound buys unless you > _really_ drive a lot of miles.> > I'm also quite familiar with the use of Priuses as taxis here in > Vancouver, where there are quite a few including the one mentioned in > the article below.> > The upcharge of $4500 may apply, depending on what type of car you > compare it to. It's rather lower than my calculations, but even at > that a good diesel car would still be a lot better buy under almost > all circumstances. The $4500 is more than most owners will get paid > back over the term of their ownership, based on average mileage per > year, fuel costs and average length of ownership.> > The total life cycle carbon footprint is not in favour of the hybrid, > either compared a good diesel. On the other hand, the Prius is a far > better choice both on a practical level and certainly on an > ecological and 'feel good' level than the choice that most people in > North America make. It's a big step in the right direction. _________________________________________________________________ See how Windows connects the people, information, and fun that are part of your life. http://clk.atdmt.com/MRT/go/msnnkwxp1020093175mrt/direct/01/