Electric vs Hybrid vs Plug-in Hybrid Vehicles

The many downsides associated with driving a gas-powered vehicle are becoming glaringly obvious. Drivers of these vehicles may be subject to financial stress related to rising and fluctuating fuel prices. They may be increasingly concerned about the impact that driving gas-powered vehicles can have on the environment. If you can relate to these issues, you understandably are interested in learning more about the electrified vehicle options on the market today. While electric, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid vehicles are often considered together, they are uniquely different. Before making your next car or SUV purchase, learning more about the options is essential.

Electric Vehicles

One or two electric motors entirely power these vehicles. No gasoline or diesel fuel is required, so you will not need to make unique stops at the gas station to fill up. These motors pull their energy from battery packs, and these batteries must be recharged regularly. Many drivers enjoy a full charge at the start of each day by charging their car through a standard power outlet overnight at home. With a full charge, you may expect your all-electric vehicle or SUV to take you a few hundred miles down the road before you need to recharge the battery. This may suffice for most drivers, but some will need to charge at a public charging station in the middle of the day. These fast-charging stations may replenish most of the battery’s power in approximately 30 minutes or less. Each vehicle has unique specs for charging and range, so research the options carefully.

Hybrid Vehicles

A hybrid vehicle, on the other hand, requires no charging. It has a combination powertrain with a combustion engine powered by fuel and a motor-driven by a small battery pack. This vehicle will require you to refill the gas tank periodically. The battery’s power, however, is replenished through coasting and braking. You will notice that hybrid vehicles have superior fuel economy compared to gas-powered vehicles. They are also usually more affordable than other types of electrified vehicles.

Plug-In Hybrid Vehicles

A plug-in hybrid vehicle has combustion, a gas-powered engine, and a battery-powered motor. The battery is recharged through both regenerative braking and plug-in charging. The battery will initially drive the vehicle. Once that power source has been depleted, the vehicle’s combustion engine will drive the vehicle. While you will need to make gas station stops with a plug-in hybrid vehicle, you never have to worry about being stranded with a dead battery.

We are thrilled to help you learn more about these options at Suburban Hyundai. To explore the possibilities available in today’s inventory, contact us to schedule your visit to the showroom.