Hybrid Cars are perfect fit in the Black Hills

Black Hills Hybrid owners share a unique interest
By Curtis Finnegan

Curtis Finnegan's car isn't a one of the kind in the Black Hills, but it is unique. Curtis is one of a number of growing residents to purchase a "hybrid car" or a car that has two or more sources of power. These new hybrid vehicles feature small, fuel-efficient, gas engines combined with an electric motor that kicks in to assist the engine when you accelerate or go up hill. The motor is powered by batteries that recharge while you drive and do not require an electrical plug in. Ford, Honda, Toyota and even Saab are some of the auto manufacturers who are stepping up to the plate to provide the most economical vehicles on the market today with prices from the 20k to 50 k range. Out of this interest, the Black Hills Hybrid Car club was established. This club is a 'gathering' of hybrid car owners. So far just 2004-'05 Prius cars have shown up for the clubs events but interest is growing. Curtis Finnegan, the Black Hills Hybrid Car club founder reports "lots of on-lookers have also 'wondered' what these cars are, when we get together".

Curtis reports "I basically wanted to get a group together to talk hybrids/share tech info and to drive our special cars. After getting mine (2004 Prius) and after learning so much online, I wanted to get together with others that have discovered the next step in auto technology. It's been great to talk with other's hybrid experiences, and to help others that are interested in getting a hybrid car. I think more than one person whom I've showed my car to (and let drive!) have gone on to order one."

The Prius (as well as the Ford Escape SUV) are considered full hybrids. They can run on electricity alone (lower speeds), gas alone, or a combination of the two power sources. The Hondas (now an Accord, as well as the Civic and the Insight) are mild hybrids. They run the gas engine all the time and use the electric motor to boost and help the gas engine when needed. They can not move with just electricity; the gas engine must be on.

And then there's the Chevy/GMC trucks. "Not a hybrid! They just aren't. Basically the engine will stop at stoplights and a battery/motor will restart it as you accelerate. The electric motor in NO way is being used to move the vehicle. These are really not going to be part of our hybrid club. They are just a start/stop type technology."

Reasons to get a hybrid: Low emmisions (the Prius is the cleanest gasoline car produced) , great fuel economy (around 50 MPG, lower if you speed and in colder weather), support new and better technology for our planet and lessen foreign oil imports. Finnegans reason "they are a kick to drive! So far in 8 months and 16,000 miles, I'm averaging 47 MPG, and have saved 700 gallons of fuel over my old SUV. That's about $1400. And it keeps getting better."