Hybrid cars--operating on a combination of electricity and gasoline--have been around in force for many years now. They have proven to be the most practical solution to improving gas mileage for the masses.
The all-electric car was a reality back in 2008 when the Tesla Roadster was unveiled for mass production:
Electric cars, of course, represent the ultimate in reducing emissions, aside from those produced in the generation of the electricity used to power them.
But up until 2012, all attempts to produce a viable electric car have produced nothing that would be useable and practical to the average driver.
...But that has all changed with the big Detroit automakers busily scrambling to produce competing versions of the all-electric car for the masses.
Gas Savings Are Just One Benefit Of The All-Electric Vehicle
One direct and immediate benefit of driving an all-electric car is the reduction in your fuel bill. While this is obvious, other benefits aren't so obvious - but are just as awesome:
1. Fewer repairs - which means less time-consuming hassles of having to get your car repaired as often as a gasoline-powered vehicle.
2. Cheaper to own over the long run, due to fewer repairs and maintenance needed.
3. Less noise pollution. No more explanation needed here.
4. Increased reliability, resulting in less stress for you; no worries about your car breaking down on a dark, lonely night in the middle of nowhere. Electric motors are about as fail-safe as it gets.
Heat dissipation challenges are no longer a problem - no radiator needed the cool the gas engine. (The excess heat produced by gasoline engines is an example of their inefficiency.) No more worries of radiator leaks and over-heating on long, steep grades.
Fuel cell cars are another alternative to hybrid cars. This technology still needs development before it is a practical reality. But it's on the horizon.
...Until then, the electric car will be the king of the road - when it comes to cheap, reliable, and clean transportation!