I would beg to differ with you that the only benefit of Hybrids is regenerative braking. Toyota who pioneered hybrids have Atkinson Cycle engines that operate at optimum efficiency between 1700 RPM and 3500 RPM. These engines have very short compression strokes which increase their fuel efficiency (Normal petrol ICE converts about 30% of fuel energy into useable power while the Atkinson Cycle engine is closer to 40%. The downside however of an Atkinson Cycle engine is that it sacrifices power vis a vis a similar displacement ICE.
Nowadays ICEs go part way towards an Atkinson Cycle via VVT-I
Of course the Hybrid compensates for the lack of engine power by combining its ICE with MG2 (motor generator 2) when a quick burst of power is needed.
Other benefits: -no extra starting motor -no fanbelts -electric controlled water pump (quick to get engine to op temp) -easy on brakes due to regenerative electric braking
Just talk to your friendly Taxi Driver and she will tell you that taxis use Hybrids because they have the lowest cost of ownership over the life of the car.
The bottom line here is that you don't seek opinions; but instead seek experienced advice...eh?
