Electric vs Hybrid vs Plug-in Hybrid Vehicles

Between significant fluctuations in gas prices, the possibility of gas shortages, and the impact of combustion engine emissions on the environment, you understandably may be turning your attention to the many hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and electric vehicles on the market. While these vehicles are generally lumped together as green or eco-friendly, they have significant differences that could impact your driving and ownership experiences. With this in mind, what should you know about the options before you settle your attention on a specific type?

Electric Vehicles

Electric vehicles do not require any gasoline or diesel fuel to operate. Rather than using a combustion engine, they are moved by an electric motor tied to a powerful battery. This battery will have a limited range and must be recharged regularly. Because the typical range of an electric vehicle’s battery may be several hundred miles in many cases, drivers often can meet most of their charging needs by simply charging the car overnight in their garage. However, public charging stations also offer on-the-go charging capabilities when you are away from home. These public charging stations use a fast charger, and they can give you an almost full charge in roughly 30 minutes or less. Because each vehicle has unique specs, it is important to research charging times and ranges before purchasing.

Hybrid Vehicles

As the name suggests, a hybrid vehicle has a combination engine that draws some of its power from a combustion engine and some power from an electric motor. Because it has a combustion engine, you will need to refuel the vehicle occasionally. However, fuel economy in these vehicles is usually impressive because of the electric motor component. You will not need to plug in your hybrid vehicle to charge it. Instead, braking and coasting will drive a generator that resupplies power to the electric motor’s battery. This option is usually among the most affordable than other electrified vehicles.

Plug-In Hybrid Vehicles

A plug-in hybrid vehicle is like a hybrid vehicle in some ways. For example, it has an electric motor and a combustion engine, which will need to be refueled periodically. However, a plug-in hybrid vehicle has a larger battery pack, and this pack must be plugged in to be fully recharged. However, some plug-in hybrids also have regenerative braking capabilities to get the most out of every charge. Generally, these vehicles will initially draw on their battery power to drive the car. Once that energy source is depleted, the vehicle will switch to fuel consumption for the combustion engine. With a plug-in hybrid vehicle, you do not need to worry about being stuck on the side of the road with a dead battery.

Are you ready to get serious about your search for a green vehicle? Our Wolfchase Hyundai team is available to help you explore our current lineup in detail.