Hybrid vs. Plug-in Hybrid

Hybrid and electric vehicles are becoming more common around Tampa. If you are on the search for your next car, a hybrid may be your best option. They have been around for years, but are becoming more accessible to the everyday driver. Some drivers may not have realized that there are different kinds of hybrids, and the way they operate differs as well. The new hybrids function with a gas engine and electric motor working in tandem. These vehicles have a lot of perks. At Cox Chevrolet, we are here to share the difference between the two and help you decide which may be better for you.

What is the difference between hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles? The standard hybrid that you likely have heard of uses electric power in conjunction with the gas engine. The engine and braking systems keep the battery charged. So just driving powers the electric motor. A plug-in hybrid has a larger battery that can be charged through the regular 120-volt household outlet or a 240-volt charging unit. The plug-in hybrid operates on either electric power or gas, but not at the same time. Here is more information about the differences and the benefits of each: 

Hybrid vs. Plug-in Hybrid Vehicles: Benefits of Hybrid Models

A standard hybrid vehicle works similarly to the traditional gas-powered vehicle you may have driven before. When you are driving through Palmetto, your vehicle is powered by both the gas engine and electric motor. This will boost your fuel economy significantly, and you don’t have to worry about charging your battery, as the simple act of driving will charge the electric powered components.

The benefits of the traditional hybrid vehicle is the improved gas mileage without needing to stop and re-charge your vehicle. This is advantageous for many drivers. You can handle the daily commute and long road trips, without concern or disruption to your typical daily life.

Hybrid vs. Plug-in Hybrid Vehicles: Benefits of Plug-In Hybrid Models

The plug-in hybrid vehicle also functions with a gasoline engine and an electric motor. Unlike the standard hybrid models, your vehicle is propelled by one operating system at a time. Primarily, a plug-in hybrid will run on the battery-powered electric motor, but once the battery is drained, the gas engine will take its place.

So, instead of the two systems working in tandem, the gas engine will function as a backup engine. The vehicle’s electric range is the distance that the vehicle can drive while operating only on the battery system. Once the battery is drained and the electric range has been met, the battery needs to be plugged in to recharge. 

The advantages of choosing a plug-in hybrid vehicle is that you likely won’t have to pay for gas when running small errands due to the electric range of the vehicle. When you go on longer trips, you’ll use some gas, but still enjoy the excellent fuel economy of a hybrid. 

Find Efficiency with Cox Chevrolet

We hope that the information you’ve been given on the difference between hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles helps you make the decision on your next upgrade. Shopping with our team of experts at Cox Chevrolet will help you explore a wide range of hybrid models. You’ll be able to move around Bradenton in style, and save money. If you prefer the security of the traditional hybrid, or you are ready to deep dive into a plug-in hybrid, we have all of the options you need. Contact us today and discuss with our finance team how to get behind the wheel today!