How much fuel do you save with a hybrid SUV?

Wiyosaya · Apr 23, 2007

Hybrids are getting heavier, but they seem to bear their weight better than conventional vehicles when it comes to fuel efficiency, according to a recent study. In the study, the scientists found that the trend toward higher-performing hybrid-electric vehicles (HEVs) in the North American market is eroding the fuel consumption benefit of hybrid technology.

However, the gain in vehicle weight and power is not necessarily surprising or discouraging, as researchers Conor Reynolds and Milind Kandlikar explain. HEVs are new in the market and, as such, are diversifying from the compact cars that first appeared in 1999, such as the relatively light, low-power Honda Insight.

â€œIn our analysis, we found that changes in weight and power affect HEVs differently than ICEVs [conventional internal combustion engine vehicles],â€ Reynolds explained to PhysOrg.com. â€œFor example, we found that added weight doesnâ€™t matter as much for hybrids as for conventional vehicles, a comparison that reinforces the fuel benefits of hybrid technology.â€
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Full article

efusco · Apr 23, 2007

I like the following quote from the article a bit better:

Depending on the comparison model, HEVs showed a fuel consumption benefit that ranged from 2.7 to 3.25 liters/100 km. Compared with the average U.S. fuel consumption of around 20 mpg (11.3 liters/100Km), this benefit means that the mileage would improve to around 27-29 mpg.

â€œConsider an average driver who drives 20,000 km (12,400 miles) a year, who changes from an ICEV to an equivalent hybrid,â€ Reynolds explained. â€œUsing a conversion factor of approximately 3 liters/100 km saved, and 2.5 kg of CO2 emitted per liter of fuel burnt, the fuel saved is 600 liters (160 gallons), and the CO2 saved is 1.5 tons (or about 0.4 tons of carbon).â€ [/b]
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hill · Apr 23, 2007

Our 4X4 Range rover got 11.0 mpg when my wife drove it, and no better than 14mpg when I'd drive it super carefull. Our Lexus hybrid S.U.V. (the RX-400h) all wheel drive gets no worse than 25.5 when my wife lead foot's in it, and I've been able to get 31.6mpg ~ best tank, driving carefull.

Fuel savings? Just under 200% - to almost 300% better mileage, turning on whose driving. They're not apples to apples. The 400h is lighter, but has a TON more power (horse and torque).

Wiyosaya · Apr 23, 2007

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(efusco @ Apr 23 2007, 12:40 PM) [snapback]428406[/snapback]</div>

I like the following quote from the article a bit better:
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You didn't want me to give it all away, did you? :lol:

Or the fact that this appears to be quality research from a reputable source?

Tideland Prius · Apr 23, 2007

hey, that's my uni!

Here's the published article
http://ej.iop.org/links/rvNYkACin/NrVbOeLx...l7_1_014003.pdf

How much fuel do you save with a hybrid SUV?

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How much fuel do you save with a hybrid SUV?

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