Includes bibliographical references and index.

Historical roots of hybrid automobiles -- Why the crisis? hybrid vehicles as a mitigation measure -- Overview of hybrid vehicles -- Hybrid automobile : what is it? -- Why hybrids get good mileage -- Multifaceted complexity of batteries -- Obesity : bad in humans, bad in cars -- Vital role of the control system -- Regenerative braking -- Narrow operating band for gasoline engine -- Hybridness : a basic design decision -- Mileage ratings -- Enhancing the sales brochure -- Torque curves : a match made in heaven -- Economics of hybrid ownership -- New technologies : hybrids -- New technologies : internal combustion engine -- Hybrids : mainstream or fringe? -- Factors influencing resale value -- Dangers of aftermarket add-ons -- Safety issues -- Future.