Sample Broadcast story

Green
11/10
KH

IT’S NOT EASY BEING GREEN

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Our investigation reveals that you may want to think twice before buying a new hybrid vehicle. We took an in depth look at America’s favorite hybrid, the Toyota Prius and compared it to a similar, all gasoline vehicle, the Toyota Yaris sedan. The results were surprising.

<> Images of Toyota dealership

<>In the areas of price and cost of maintenance, the Yaris was actually cheaper to own despite the Prius’ increased fuel economy. We took average numbers from across the board to discover that month to month, the Prius is more expensive due to increased insurance rates and maintenance fees.

<> Graphic showing the calculations.

<> Hybrids may be a hazard on the road too. Our investigation revealed a 26-page document entitled the Toyota Prius Emergency Response Guide. Outlined in the document are six pages of specific guidelines for emergency responders in the event of an accident. The manual warned of

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<> “severe electrical burn, shock or electrocution.”
But do firefighters know the potential dangers of the electric hybrid? Boulder Fire Marshal David Lowrey insists hybrid drivers are safe, but admits to not knowing the extra safety requirements.

<> “There’s so much uncertainty there. There’s what we’re supposed to do and what we do.”

<> But despite these warnings, hybrid owners say they won’t be trading in anytime soon.

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