Favoured by those looking to limit the negative impact they have on the environment around them, hybrid vehicles have become incredibly popular during the past five years. Celebrities such as Brad Pitt, Susan Sarandon and Tom Hanks can all be spotted driving hybrid vehicles - a factor that has only aided this relatively recent rise in popularity.
But what are hybrid vehicles?
Well hybrid vehicles are powered by a mix of electric and standard fuel types (petrol and diesel). In a hybrid car the typical single large internal combustion engine is replaced by a smaller version; this is complemented by an electric motor, meaning that hybrid vehicles are capable of providing a desirable blend of engine power, minimal emissions and fantastic fuel efficiency rates.
The fuel efficiency rates offered by these hybrid vehicles vary significantly depending on the model.
Innovatively designed and manufactured by Peugeot, the 508 RXH is a hybrid model that offers an incredible fuel efficiency rate of 68.9 miles per gallon (mpg) - an achievement that is made all the more exceptional when its size is taken into consideration. Those driving short distances can also viably rely solely on its electric motor, resulting in no emissions and no fuel consumption. Although not an option for drivers regularly driving across the UK, having the ability to switch the 508 RXH into electric drive mode is great for those that want to save money on diesel or petrol.
Meanwhile the Citreon DS5 can only offer a fuel efficiency rate of 42.2 mpg. Though this might be seen as unimpressive - especially when compared to the Peugeot 508 RXH - it isn't; the fuel efficiency rates offered, as well as the amount of emissions produced, by hybrid vehicles are significantly better than those offered by their petrol and diesel-powered counterparts. This reinforces the idea that hybrid vehicles vary significantly. Each car manufacturer incorporates its own advanced technology into the hybrid vehicles it produces.
However, one piece of technology that is featured in most hybrids is in regenerative breaking systems. This means that when the driver of a hybrid car, featuring regenerative braking, brakes, the electric motor becomes a power generator, which recovers energy from the drag that brings the vehicle to a halt. For safety reasons though hybrid vehicles also feature standard hydraulic braking systems. Tried and trusted for many years, a hydraulic braking system can be utilised to bring the vehicle to a halt when the regenerative braking system isn't going to cut it.
Most car manufacturers manufacture at least one hybrid model, with a number of newer models planned for release during the next couple of years.
With the prices of both petrol and diesel continuing to rise on a monthly basis, people are increasingly turning their attention towards hybrids. Because of this they can be expected to become a common sight on the roads and motorways of Europe.
So if you're looking to trade in your old, standard internal combustion engine-powered car for a more environmentally-friendly option, why not give a hybrid model a try?

Driven by a number of well-known celebrities, hybrid vehicles can provide amazing fuel efficiency rates. This article explains what one could expect from a hybrid model.