The Big Push to Hybrids

With gasoline pricing increasing to historic levels comes a new push from automobile manufacturers to "educate" consumers about hybrid vehicles that promise improved gas mileage and protection for the environment.

Toyota, for one, will soon begin an aggressive new advertising campaign for its hybrid offerings. Other manufacturers will begin offering new hybrid versions of SUVs. Look for all manufacturers to try to increase consumer awareness for hybrid vehicles. They'll spend a lot of time and money trying to convince the public that hybrids are cool and smart.

Hybrid is in; big gas guzzlers are out -- at least for now. It remains to be seen how the automotive public will react to the new direction. Are we really concerned about gas prices? Do we really care about the environment? Are we really convinced that hybrid vehicles help solve the problems? Are hybrids really cool, or geeky?

Let's wait a year and take another look.