I thought I would start a discussion on Hybrids including the Prius.

Has anyone driven one? What do they go like? What are the running costs including battery replacement schedule or has someone had to replace them, and at what cost? What is the electric motor and system efficiency? Why do they run an electric motor through a transmission which has transmission losses instead of direct drive to the wheels? Has anyone seen other hybrid systems?

I have more questions but I will post them later....

Please post questions and answers as I'm sure people will be interested for future vehicle insights.