The hybrid has come a long way since the two seater Honda Insight. More and more models of hybrid cars are popping up all the time. And more Americans are buying them if only out of concern for their pocket books and not the environment.

Most car manufactures now offer a hybrid version of their most popular models. The gas/electric versions of the Honda Civic and Toyota Camry are being pushed pretty hard right now with gas price at ass puckering highs. And for those who cannot let go of their SUV, there is a less fuel hungry version of the Ford Escape, Toyota Highlander and even the Lexus RX 200h.

But there is a long way to go still. Even though models like the Honda Insight and Toyota Prius have been around for years, many people still do not get the whole Hybrid thing. I still get people asking me where I plug in my Prius.

But we are not here to educate the masses on the basics of gas/electric technology. If you want to know more about how hybrids work… look it up.

Right now I want to introduce you to a new eco-friendly car that will put to rest the misconceptions about the hybrid vehicles. Mainly that of performance. The new Hybrid Camry and Lexus GS are designed with power hungry americans in mind but it still may not be enough.

To fill the gap, the Toyota Volta!

Toyota, the pioneers in hybrid technology introduce the first high-performance hybrid. The Volta, named after Alessandro Volta, the mild mannered scientist that first arranged zinc and copper discs in a column and invented the battery.

The Giugiaro designed carbon-fiber body seats three people and features “drive-by-wire” controls, allowing you to position the steering wheel and pedals in front of any one of them. So if someone does not like your driving, give them the wheel.

The Volta’s 408 hp Hybrid Synergy Drive (a 3.3-liter V6 with an electric motor for each axle) delivers 0-60 acceleration in a mere 4 seconds. That is .3 seconds faster than the 2006 Lamborghini Gallardo (0-60 in 4.3 sec.) and a hefty 30 MPG over the Lambo’s 10 MPG.

That is not too bad for green machine. You can help the environment and still get laid.