DISQUS

It should get better once the new battery plants come on line next year. Until then, you may want to hold off on buying a Prius since the dealers can add thousands to the MSRP right now.

It seems no one expected the rapid changes in gas prices. $4 has definitely been a tipping point for demand of hybrids.

I would suggest looking at what Toyota has done since their incentives ran out. They are still selling 3 out of every 4 hybrids in the US, despite losing their tax credits.    Hybrid Car Sales, June.

I've seen studies saying it can take as little as 2 to 3 years to make up the cost difference. Again, it depends on which hybrid car you're buying and which car is your alternative.

As for 'hidden costs,' I'm not sure I follow you.

He might also look into lower insurance rates for hybrid drivers.  Also, some states are offering rebates or other tax incentives to those who buy a hybrid car.  Then there's solo access to HOV lanes or free parking.  It all depends on which state you're in, but the time to break even on the extra money varies widely on how much you take advantage of these types of incentives.

It also depends on what the 'other' car is in your scenario, i.e. the price of the other car and its fuel economy.