Alternative Energy Forums

Hey there

This might seem uninformed and a little silly... I was watching an episode of Boston Legal where they discussed the manufacture of hybrid cars and it left me wondering whether there was any real facts in what they were saying.

It was basically noted that the nickel (or other materials) used to manufacture hybrid car batteries (in the USA at least) are outsourced to another country and refined, then shipped back. Meaning that the refining, shipping and such actually increases CO2 emissions and other toxins into the environment. The argument was that with all the toxins released during manufacture the 'good' of driving a hybrid is completely outweighed.

Does anyone know if it is true? Does the manufacturing process of hybrid batteries (or any other component for that matter) create so much toxic waste and emissions that driving a hybrid becomes worse than using a petrol/diesel/gas powered car?

I find this subject most interesting. Can anyone shed some light on the subject for me?