Hybrid vs. Electric: Which is Right for You?

When Hartselle drivers are ready to trade in their gas vehicles and give alternative fuel options a try, which is better in hybrid cars vs. electric cars? It all depends on how they drive. Take a look at the hybrid vs. electric comparison with Mitch Smith Chevrolet, Inc. to get a better understanding of which option suits your driving style best. 

Hybrid Cars vs. Electric Cars: the Basics

Let’s start with the basics when it comes to driving a hybrid vs. electric car on Hanceville streets by taking a look at the basic science and design behind each option. 

Hybrid Cars

With over two decades on the market, chances are you’ve encountered a hybrid or two on your Decatur drives. While a hybrid car is still gas-powered, it uses significantly less gasoline than a conventional engine. That’s because a hybrid’s gas engine is paired with an electric motor. They work in tandem to power your vehicle. While you’ll still need to stop at the gas station for fill-ups, it won’t be nearly as often or as expensive because hybrid vehicles get exceptional fuel efficiency. And because your electric engine self-charges or uses regenerative braking power, you don’t have to plug in your hybrid car to charge it. 

Electric Cars (EV)

Electric cars like the Chevy Bolt EUV rely solely on electric power. In hybrid cars vs. electric cars you’ll find a much larger electric motor in the EV than in the hybrid. No gasoline is involved when you drive an EV. You’ll rely on home and public charging stations for your vehicle’s power. Instead of miles per gallon, you’ll look the car’s miles per charge range when it’s charged at 100%. A home charge station makes it easy and convenient to charge your battery when you’re not driving. An electrician can work with you to install a charger. 

Benefits of Hybrid Vehicles

If you’re a little nervous about moving away from a gasoline-powered vehicle, a hybrid car is the way to go. There’s very little noticeable difference between driving a hybrid vehicle and a gas vehicle except for the fuel economy. Also, hybrids tend to be priced lower up-front than electric vehicles. Hybrid vehicles are great for drivers with long commutes or who like to take road trips, or who like the comfort of not changing how they drive just yet. 

Benefits of Electric Vehicles

By not having a gasoline engine an EV offers low to zero emissions and you won’t be spending money on petroleum fuel. You’ll also have your choice of how to charge your car, and your carbon footprint will be lighter. You’ll also notice a drop in maintenance costs since the electric motor doesn’t require oil changes. Additional perks include a very quiet ride and potential tax incentives. Our finance department can tell you more. If you don’t spend a lot of time on long drives, an EV is an excellent option for you, although they can be great for long trips as public charging stations become more common. 

Compare Hybrid vs. Electric Cars at Mitch Smith Chevrolet, Inc.

Whether you’re interested in a Chevy Equinox Hybrid or a Chevy Bolt EV, you can compare how they drive at Mitch Smith Chevrolet, Inc.. Our team is here to help you make the switch to hybrid vs. electric as easy as possible!