As you are looking at hybrid and electric vehicles it can seem overwhelming! There is a lot of information about these new hybrid vehicles that can be covered, and it may be difficult to know exactly where to start. In this article we will look in-depth into the details of hybrid and electric vehicles so that you can make an informed buying decision.
Key Takeaways:
- Hybrid and electric vehicles are both great platforms that are relatively new, however, they are slightly different in the way that they deliver power.
- Plug-in hybrids are a great way to get the best of both worlds as you are able to rely on the plug-in electric motor and the gasoline engine as well. On top of that you will be able to charge these vehicles in your own home.
- Gasoline engines have come a long way and deliver impressive fuel efficiency. We will look into the difference between these engines and those of hybrids and electric vehicles.
What is the Difference between Hybrid and Electric Vehicles?
The biggest difference in these two different vehicles is how the drivetrain gets its power. The electric vehicle runs solely on electric motors that will need to be recharged in order to maintain the power. A hybrid vehicle has both a traditional gasoline engine and an electric motor to power it along. Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) powertrains will be able to run for a short period of time on the electric motor, after which it will switch to the traditional gasoline engine. This is different from a traditional hybrid vehicle.
What is the Difference Between a Plug-In Hybrid and Traditional Hybrid?
The biggest difference is implied in the name of these two different types of vehicles. The traditional hybrid will not need to be plugged in at all as the regenerative braking charges the battery. However, the plug-in hybrid will need to be plugged in to charge. This will be the same for the electric vehicles on the market as well. Charging these plug-in hybrids and electric vehicles has never been easier!
There are many charging stations that are available around the country, and there are options to charge these vehicles at your house. Most vehicles are able to quickly charge when charged on 240 volt outlets. This outlet can be professionally installed by an electrician. There are also options to be able to charge with a standard 110 volt outlet, which is the typical outlet you will see in most homes.
Is a Gas or Hybrid Vehicle a Better Choice?
Ultimately this depends on your personal preference, however there are a few aspects to consider. The hybrid and electric vehicles that are on the market will save on gas, or in the case of fully electric, completely eliminate the need for fuel all together. Gasoline engines (internal combustion engines or ICE) have come a long way when it comes to being more fuel efficient.
Your perfect engine will depend on your needs. For local and daily commutes EVs are great. For road trips and long distance travel hybrids, PHEVs and gas are more suitable. For towing and hauling capacity ICE vehicles still hold the top spot.
Does Chevy Have any Hybrid Vehicles?
Chevy has a plethora of electric and hybrid vehicles that are coming out in the 2024 model year. There are vehicles ranging from the smaller Bolt sedan, all the way to the faster Corvette E-Ray. Other models are coming to the market, such as the newer Equinox EV which will bring an electric spin to the well-known SUV.