III. Answer the questions.

Hybrid Vehicle

A hybrid vehicle uses multiple propulsion systemsto provide motive power. The most common type of a hybrid vehicle is the gasoline-electric hybrid vehicles, which use gasoline (petrol) and electric batteries for the energy used to power internal combustion engines(ICEs) and electric motors. These motors are usually relatively small and would be considered "underpowered" by themselves, but they can provide a normal driving experience when used in combination during acceleration and other maneuvers that require greater power.

The Toyota Prius first went on sale in Japan in 1997 and it has been sold worldwide since 2000. By 2010 the Prius was sold in more than 70 countries and regions, with Japan and the United States as its largest markets. In May 2008, global cumulative Prius sales reached the 1 million units, and by September 2010, the Prius reached worldwide cumulative sales of 2 million units.

1. What is an alternative fuel vehicle?

2. What is an electric car propelled by?

3. What advantages do electric cars have?

4. Why did a renewed interest in the production of electric cars take place in the mid 2000s?

5. What systems does a hybrid vehicle use?

6. When can electric motors provide a normal driving experience?

7. What car is the most popular hybrid car in the world?

IV. Translate the text “Flexible-Fuel Vehicle”. Use the dictionary if necessary.