SOOOOO! You're fed up with the amount that you're spending at the petrol station. A common mantra these days. "Katie!" I hear. "These high fuel prices are cutting into my Stanley budget!"

Well, we can help! There's lots of different ways that you can save money at the pump, and maybe yes-get the latest new Stanley with your savings.

Hybrid (see also light hybrid, conventional hybrid, regenerative braking hybrid)

For those who want to have simple efficiency, a hybrid is a great way to save money! The Toyota Prius is the best example, however you have many vehicles that are now only available in a hybrid powertrain, or have availability in both standard and hybrid powertrains. These work by a battery that can help power the vehicle, and braking will help put power into the battery-which is why you will get better efficiency for city driving as opposed to highway driving. 

Plug-In Hybrid (also known as a PHEV)

PHEVs will utilize the hybrid battery to not only help power the engine, but also standalone usage for those short trips. It has the traditional fuel tank, but it will also have a battery with a range anywhere from 20 to 45 miles that you can utilize an external charger for. They are not meant to be used just as electric, due to the dual powertrains. However, if you love taking long trips you would love one of these! In many cases, you also will have a "Power Mode" which can get you more power for robust acceleration or not feeling feeble going up hills. Regenerative braking can provide some power to the battery, however the best results come from utilizing the charging cord.

Electric (EV)

These vehicles have no gas whatsoever-just a battery for the ultimate of efficiency! These will take more planning in your day to day, however you can have the convenience of your daily commute and then charging it at night when you get home. Infrastructure is getting built out and many newer build apartments and houses will have some semblance of EV charging. Public charging, also, is sprouting up like those Himalayan blackberries that take over your garden. There are varying options-from small cars perfect for small commutes and those who rarely drive, to trucks and SUVs to give the utility you need minus the high fuel bill. While it is still not the right solution for everyone, it is the fastest growing segment of the car market with new options arriving all the time.