Is a Hybrid Minivan on the Horizon?

By Joseph Then

With new hybrid cars and SUVs now being released in the United States, there are many people who are wondering if there is a hybrid minivan on the horizon too. While the cars are great and extremely popular, many people need the convenience of a minivan for hauling their kids around. So, is there a hybrid minivan on the horizon? Well, it appears that a hybrid minivan has already been released in Japan and that there are environmental groups that are hoping that the minivans come on over to the United States as well.

The Toyota Estima Hybrid Minivan Already in Use in Japan

The Toyota Estima hybrid minivan has already been introduced in the country of Japan and it is being used as well. This was introduced in Japan back in 2001 and it was the very first hybrid minivan to be created. The new minivan looks great and it also provide great performance and fuel economy as well. This minivan was actually the first vehicle that has been mass produced to use a unique four wheel driving system that is totally electric. The starting price in Japan is about $32,000, which really is not a bad deal for what you get.

Environmental Groups Want Hybrid Minivans in the U.S.

Since a hybrid minivan has already been released in Japan, there are now environmental groups that want this new minivan to be sold in the United States as well. They feel that having hybrid minivans well help to boost fuel economy, reduce the amount of fuel consumed, and that the environment will be preserved as well. One group, the Union of Concerned Scientists, has actually started a petition with Toyota to have them bring their hybrid minivan from Japan to the United States as well.

Hybrid Minivans Will Help Families Financially

For those who have larger families and need the convenience of a mini van, having a hybrid minivan could really help out financially. Most minivans are very expensive to drive around with the price of gas; however, the hybrid minivan would not use as much gas, which would save many families a huge amount of money.

So, will we see the hybrid minivan in America in the next few years? More than likely we will see these new minivans sold, especially with the huge demand that there seems to be for these minivans to be sold on American soil.

Learn more about Hybrid Cars. Compare the various hybrid cars and understand their benefits. Know what to take note when buying such car. Visit Joseph's website on Hybrid Cars for more useful information.



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