If a car was/is PZEV, does that mean it's a hybrid? or how can it be PZEV and not be a hybrid?

Question

If a car was/is PZEV, does that mean it's a hybrid? or how can it be PZEV and not be a hybrid?

Answer 1

PZEV is a California Air Resources Board classification that just means a car with a fuel tank that does not leak gasoline vapors (i.e. evaporative emissions).  http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/PZEV

The Prius hybrid is classified as an AT-PZEV.  Advanced Technology PZEV, because it has a fuel tank that uses a resin bladder with an EVAP vapor capture system.

Answer 2

PZEV (partial zero emission vehicle) is a California Air Resource Board rating for the entire emissions system of a vehicle.  The vehicle must meet the SULEV (super ultra low emission vehicle - 90percent cleaner than the average 2004 car) standard, and have zero evaporative emissions (no hydrocarbons are allowed to escape from the vehicle with it just sitting there off), plus a long 150,000 mile emissions warranty.

There are hybrids that do not meet the PZEV standard, and there are traditonal gasoline vehicles that do meet the PZEV standard.  Vehicle emissions (smog/air pollution forming) are mostly independent of a vehicle's fuel economy.

Answer 3

the other answer is correct. Ford has a PZEV that's not a hybrid...

http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/hot_...