[GreenHornet]

Hey Ciderbarrel,

Based on your driving commute of less than 20miles a day you would be using only electric for most all days which would mean you would not be spending anything virtually on the diesel fuel. So the hypothetical numbers you ran would be even more in favor of the diesel vs Prius. If you combined the diesel with electric the fuel economy is like 225 mpg. The Prius does not even compare to this!

Consider what you spend on a new Prius that would be a better apples to apples comparison. Diesel fuel is more expensive but electricity is much less expensive than either gas or diesel and pollutes less in our cities. We can also produce our own electricity if we have the means.

The Prius depending on model can deliver around 11mi EV only mode. With a plug it could handle all of your daily miles. I like the Prius don't get me wrong and I see where you are going with it but savings at the pump is only one figure that you calculated and not really the best one for your personal driving habits and noted yearly mileage figures.

For a brand new quality hybrid that will give you 30-40 mi electric range and 100mpg diesel only fuel economy you would pay less than 15K essentially is what you are saying. I am not even sure there is a gas hybrid new with far worse fuel economy and EV only range for 15K USD I would be curious to see the cheapest hybrid here in the states and its ratings for comparison sake!

If anyone knows the cheapest hybrid bare bones model and specs here in the states post it up so we can see some comparisons here!