My 2007 HCHII replaced a 2004 HCHI. I could not turn down the generous Federal and State Tax Credits.

 

I had a 2006 Dodge Charger R/T, didn't get great gas mileage, but my decision was made more on environmental reasons instead of the gas price issue. I work in the architecture business and there is constant talk of environmentally friendly design, and it eventually hit me to do something better myself. The other reason for the change is because my wife describes me as a "2 year car guy", meaning I tend to want a new car every two years.

 

My 2008 HCH replaced a 1998 Dodge Neon Sport 5sp. The car has 229,000 miles on it and still runs good. I got about 32 mpg driving to/from work going about 65-75 mph.

 

I just bought my hch yesterday and traded in my 2003 mustang, which had 104,700 miles on it. I drive 90 miles a day round trip to work and filling up every 3 1/2 days was getting old. Cant wait to see how much fun my hybrid is going to be.

 

We replaced a Toyota RAV4-EV, an electric vehicle. My wife, who drove both cars, laments it to this day but the economics were compelling. She loved the RAV4. The RAV4 was at the end of its three year lease. We bought out the lease for $26000 and sold the car on eBay for $45000. How could I refuse such a deal?

Since car pool stickers were being offered for the HCH at the time, and they are essential for my wife's commute, it was a great opportunity.

The RAV4 was an excellent vehicle. Much cheaper to "refuel", maintenance free, and a pleasure to drive. Its only drawback is the limited range and long recharging time, which makes it practical only for some people. For example, you have to own a single family home where you can install a charger.

It's a great pity that Toyota stopped offering those cars immediately after California's Air Resources Board changed its ZEV mandate in 2003. GM crushed its EVs. Toyota, mercifully, responded to the outcry and let some of the RAV4-EVs stay on the road, although they are dying a slow death because Toyota doesn't make them any more and can hardly support them. You can't get replacement batteries, although at 6 years and counting there hasn't been a single RAV4-EV to my knowledge on which the batteries have failed.

 

Elan C,

Cool! An EV

How far did you go on a charge? (the claimed 110-120?)

Did you notice any deterioration of the battery pack in time you owned it?

How was your leasing/buying experience? I've heard that getting your hands on an EV from the dealership was tough.

Did you look at any other EVs before choosing the Rav4 EV?