 Are you thinking about trading in your gas-powered vehicle for something more fuel-efficient? If so, you have lots of options at Kolosso Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram! Dive into the details with our comparison of hybrid vs. electric hybrid vs. electric cars, below.
Hybrid vs. Electric Hybrid vs. Electric Cars: Understanding the Basics
What is a Hybrid Vehicle?
How do hybrid vehicles work? While they're technically still powered by a gasoline engine, hybrid cars use an electric motor as a secondary source of power. This allows their gas engines to run more efficiently and use less fuel. The battery for the electric motor is charged by the engine and through regenerative braking, so there's no need to plug in and charge a hybrid. If you'd like to enjoy lower fuel consumption without adjusting your normal driving habits, a hybrid is a great choice.
What is a Plug-In Electric Hybrid Vehicle (PHEV)?
A plug-in hybrid is a hybrid because it uses both an electric motor and a gasoline engine. However, as the name suggests, you must plug it into a power source to charge the battery. That's because the battery on a PHEV is much larger than the battery in a conventional hybrid, and can even power the vehicle on its own for short distances. Plug-in hybrid vehicles such as the Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe and Wrangler 4xe SUVs and the PHEV version of the Chrysler Pacifica minivan can also run exclusively with their gasoline engines, or in a hybrid mode that combines power from both. They're a good choice if you want the option to drive your vehicle on all-electric power in Kaukauna without giving up gasoline as a backup power source.
What is an Electric Vehicle (EV)?
Electric vehicles run 100% on electric battery power and have no gasoline engine. Many have an electric range of 250 miles or more, so you're unlikely to run out of juice unless you're taking long trips through areas without charging stations. Many Green Bay-area EV drivers appreciate the simpler maintenance of EVs compared to vehicles with combustion engines. Without oil changes and other engine-related services, you'll spend a lot less time at your local Neenah auto service shop.Â
Hybrid vs. Electric Hybrid vs. Electric Cars: Choosing Your Fuel-Efficient Vehicle
Benefits of Hybrid Vehicles
- Do not require charging
- Better fuel economy than conventional engines
- Requires no change to your normal driving habits
- Typically more affordable than EVs
- No worries about running out of power on the road
Benefits of Plug-In Hybrid Vehicles
- Can run on gasoline alone, on electric power alone, or both together
- More efficient than hybrid vehicles, especially if you make lots of short trips using electric power
- Gasoline engine offers peace of mind on longer trips through areas with few charging stations
Benefits of Electric Vehicles
- Low or zero tailpipe emissions
- Quieter ride with no engine noise
- Lower maintenance costs (no oil changes or engine upkeep)
- Potential EV incentives based on where you live
- Flexible public and home charging options
Explore Fuel-Efficient Vehicles at Kolosso Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram
Need assistance comparing hybrid cars vs. electric cars? We're here to help! Contact us or visit our dealership in Appleton to speak with our team of automotive experts about whether a hybrid, PHEV, or EV would deliver the right balance of efficiency and convenience.