Are hybrids really all that great?

Isn't it better to get people to drive less to begin with? This column, Forget hybrids, America; diesels will provide economy, performance, by Neil Winton of the European bureau of the Detroit News, dismisses hybrids.

Last week, Baltimore announced parking discounts for hybrids. See this article, "Hybrids to get parking discount. City garages will offer reduction on monthly contracts" from the Baltimore Sun. And hybrids are allowed in HOV lanes regardless of the number of people in the car.

It would be far better to give people incentives to use non-automobile transportation, or to car pool.