by V.L. Holme

Created on: November 20, 2008   Last Updated: November 23, 2008

Most hybrid cars today are fundamentally UNCOOL and it's a serious shame. When I think of the "hybrid image" or the image that automakers are creating, I think of a fundamental lack of understanding the green movement. Each hybrid I see on the road is obnoxious, trying too hard to stand out. This isn't the green message. Automakers are clearly missing the boat.

True environmentally-friendly consumers don't wish to be frivolous by driving a giant bubble. On the contrary, these are regular folks who make quiet decisions everyday to be better global citizens. They don't expect showmanship and may balk at the notion. So why make hybrids so darn weird? Who are you really attracting?

The hybrid consumer is making the decision to buy alternative powered vehicles for three reasons:

1. Fuel economy

The greatest driver (pardon the pun) for the choice to go hybrid is often fuel economy. Who wouldn't wish to lower their gas bill each month, especially those poor commuters idling at traffic lights every morning.

2. Carbon Footprints

We have all watched the documentaries and know the drill. We are unleashing considerable amounts of carbon into the atmosphere. Visit travelmatters.org to find out how many trees it would take to offset your regular gas emissions in a month. Hybrids seek to reduce the amount of fuel needed to run a vehicle. Hybrid buyers are wary of what the future holds and are making a decision to buy hybrid in an effort to ease their conscience.

3. Because it's "In"

Hybrid is the buzz word of the day. For those mid-lifers who want something new and exciting, why not join the hybrid craze. For techies who like gadgets, why not try on new technology for size. The hybrid is just what the world needs...more computers. Being "in" for some people, may even be their first reason for buying hybrid. I mean, who cares about recycling so long as I look the part, right?

But what about being environmentally friendly without the token car?

Hybrid vehicle owners aren't inherently green. These people may go home and crank up the electric heat in their homes or buy plenty of foods layered in non-biodegradable packaging. Buying the car doesn't make you exempt. There are no free passes.

What's cool is finding little ways, everyday, to live greener. We can certainly shrink our carbon footprint even with our regular old gas vehicles. Driving slower and obeying the speed limit will increase fuel economy. We could also stand to empty out those trunks! Extra weight in a vehicle can wreak havoc with fuel efficiency. Or even better yet, why don't we walk!

At the moment, the hybrid vehicle is negatively impacting the image of the owner. The perception is that you've bought into the hype and that you've got enough money to believe you can be "cool" with that hybrid tag on your back panel. But let us call a spade a spade. The big bubble with doors doesn't make you cool and certainly isn't a free ride.

Automakers need to meet the public halfway. Being green isn't about being out there. Being green is about better decision-making. Create vehicles that don't polarize consumers and maybe you'll sell more cars.

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