Whats the big deal with hybrids when geo metros get 50 to 70 mpg?

Question

i dont understand the thinking with hybrids when the geo metro kills hybrids with gas milliage, also doesnt need expensive batteries!!!! or electric motors

http://1989geometro.com/

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Geo_Metro

Answer 1

The Metro was available in both three door and four door and both got the same mileage.

Both are attractive and reliable cars but you do have to keep an eye out for rust...other than that they are very practicle especially today.

As far as collision safety, the one thing the smaller car has over any other is they are very nimble and more capable of avoiding an accident over being involved in one.

Answer 2

The big deal is that they don't make Geo Metros anymore.  The reason Geos got such good mileage was because they were small, light, didn't have all of the safety features modern cars have (i.e. airbags), probably did poorly in crash tests, etc.

Just look at the SmartCar.  It's basically the modern equivalent of a Geo, but even smaller, and only gets 36 mpg.

http://autos.yahoo.com/newcars/model/ove...

In comparison, a Prius is much bigger and still gets 47 mpg.

http://autos.yahoo.com/toyota_prius/

That's the big deal.  They vastly improve efficiency without sacrificing safety.

Answer 3

It's really two main issues:

1.) "hybrid" is a trend (like global warming),and it makes $$$, so corporations buy into it.

and

2.) Geos are very unattractive and very un-safe to ride in. What happens if a larger car hits you? Check the insurance rates on them. Oh, and life expectancy.

Besides, how can you roll with a Geo?! ;D

Answer 4

i don't have a family so that works for me.. but try sticking a wife and a couple of kids in car seats in that thing.. then go grocery shopping...

i think you will rapidly see that smaller doesn't always work.

Answer 5

Hybrids cost a lot more to maintain that a geo that's for sure.  Batteries can cost anywhere from $1,000 - $2,000.  I think if anything the huge difference between the cars isn't the MPG but the safety and structure of the vehicle.  Geo's are small, compact cars, that aren't build very durable and if are involved in an accident can crumble.  Hybrids have a stronger structure than geo's do.  A buyer may be concerned with MPG and crash test ratings

Answer 6

Geo Metros are no longer in production and finding a used one is super difficult considering the price of gas.  Who would have ever guessed there would be a demand for the Geo Metro or Ford Festiva?!

Answer 7

who wants to drive a metro- a metro gets its mileage based on size and weight.  If that was the sole consideration, we'd all drive mopeds

for the average family a metro can not accomodate their needs.

The hybrid can be a larger vehicle with improved performance thanks to the electric motor, regenerative braking etc.

Answer 8

And they are more expensive.

edit - Maybe it's because of the emmissions that the geo makes?

Answer 9

Air bags and etc cost weight, which costs mileage. The big advantage I see is that it IS half electric, and so when we get a decent battery technology, they will be easily converted simply by replacing the battery pack.