More hybrid cars coming

Consumers are about to lose two choices from the range of hybrid vehicles on sale, but three more of the fuel-efficient models will hit the market shortly.

The hybrid Chrysler Aspen and Dodge Durango, which just went on sale, are casualties of Chrysler's decision to close its Newark, Del., assembly plant Dec. 31.

Hybrid versions of the Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan are to debut this month at the Los Angeles Auto Show.

The Fusion and Milan get the latest version of Ford's hybrid system. It has smaller and lighter batteries that can power the midsize sedans in all-electric mode at an unprecedented 47 m.p.h.

A new version of the Saturn Vue hybrid — with the two-mode system GM developed for its full-size SUVs and pickups — should score EPA ratings of 28 m.p.g. in the city and 31 m.p.g. on the highway when it goes on sale shortly.

More hybrids arrive in 2009, including the new Toyota Prius and Honda Insight.