Re: realistic gas mileage in a new Prius

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>
> Question: Why does a Prius getting 48 mpg make us less dependent on
> oil than an Echo getting 48 mpg?[/color]

I did not say that. I was making the point that buying a car with high gas
mileage sends a message that that is what the public wants. Buying an Echo
or a Prius or any other economical car is vote. Prius is more symbolic of
the need for high gas mileage cars. Echo is a fine car but Americans have
shown that we want comfort as well as economy.
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> I got the Echo because of 2 uncertainties:
>
> - What will be the cost of a few sets of batteries over the next 20
> years. Will I even be able to get them 20 years from now if the
> design changes?[/color]

I don't really care. I'm not keeping this car for 20 years. If I drive the
car 200,000 miles, I'll have to buy one battery.
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> - Will an independent garage be able to service a Prius, or will the
> dealer have a monopoly, and command higher prices?[/color]

The engine on a Prius is just like any other fuel injected engine when it
comes to service. If the hybrid system needs service within 100,000 miles,
it's free. I remember when fuel injected engines first came out. You would
never bring one of those engines to an independant dealer. Now, no problem.
Put enough hybrids on the road and everyone will service them. Toyota can't
crank them out fast enough. They increased production. The independants
will have to catch up, just like they did with fuel injection and anti-lock
brakes.