Surging gas prices may have you thinking about an electric, hybrid or plug-in vehicle for your next purchase. But in the automobile era of alternative energy technologies, it can be hard to differentiate between the many options to determine which type of car might be right for you.
Below is a look at EVs, hybrids and plug-in hybrids to explain the key differences and help you decide which option may be best suited for your driving and spending styles.
What is an EV?
“EV” is short for “electric vehicle” and applies to cars with no gas tank or engine. Electric vehicles use a large battery that is charged by plugging it into a standard wall outlet, wall charger or roadside plug-in station.
Many EVs can be driven around 250 miles on a single charge, while some models can travel more than twice that distance before needing a charge.
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What is a Hybrid?
A hybrid car has a gas engine as well as at least one electric motor. Sometimes the gas engine is propelling the car, sometimes the electric motor is doing all the work and at other times the two systems are teaming up together. Unlike an EV, the battery in a hybrid is not plugged in to charge. Instead, it’s charged by regenerative braking and internal combustion of the engine.
When the gas engine is engaged, the electric motor supplements the powertrain to improve gas mileage. Many hybrid cars get more than 50 miles per gallon of fuel economy.
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What is a plug-in hybrid?
A plug-in hybrid is a mix between a gas-powered hybrid and an EV. Like an EV, the battery can be charged by plugging in and serves as the primary energy source. And like a hybrid, a gas engine can work in tandem with the electric motor or take over completely when the battery dies.
Which type of car is right for you?
Now that you understand the basic difference between an EV, hybrid and plug-in hybrid, which type of car is right for you?
Test drive all three at Zimbrick Automotive and let our team of experts help you further understand each type of car so you can decide which one fits your needs. Shop our new and used car selection online or visit one of our many Madison, WI locations.
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