US November 2009 car sales totalled 20,004 units up almost 21% on the figure of 16,536 units for the same period in 2008. Prius sales of9,617 units were up  over 11% on the November 2008 figure of 8,660. Although sales of hybrids represent less than 3% of the overall car market, they are increasing at a faster rate than non hybrids. Recent research by hybridcar.com indicates that hybrids will at least double their share of the overall car market by 2014.

Commitment by car manufacturers has, until recently, been difficult to evaluate. However recent announcements by Ford and Toyota, particularly relating to Plug -In Hybrids (PHEV’s) indicate a significant market shift towards hybrids over the next 3- 5 years. In 2009, Ford launched an aggressive plan to bring pure battery-electric vehicles, next-generation lithium-ion battery powered hybrids and a plug-in hybrid to market quickly and more affordably during the next four years. Toyota meanwhile have been touting that their next generation of hybrids will include a Plug – In version of the legendary Prius.

While 2009 is generally regarded as an “annus mirablis” by most car manufacturers, it would appear that 2010 is being seen as a catalyst for a return to growth. That growth will definitely include fleets of hybrids and other alternatively fuelled cars. Amazingly it has taken a major economic disaster to refocus on the future of personal transportation and it would appear hybrids have weathered the storm and are set to take center stage in the recovery of the auto industry.

US November 2009 Hybrid Car sales figures:

2009 Year to date hybrid car sales are 262,102 units.