If you’re searching for a new vehicle that can get you around Bountiful, Utah, in style, you may wonder whether a hybrid or an all-electric model is right for you. Before you make your decision, it’s a good idea to compare the differences between the two.
Although both types of power produce lower emissions than their gas-powered counterparts, they aren’t equal. Knowing the pros and cons of a hybrid versus a fully electric vehicle ensures you make the best choice for your lifestyle. This guide explains the differences between a hybrid and an electric vehicle (EV) and the pros and cons of each.
What Are the Differences Between Hybrids and EVs?
The main difference between a hybrid vehicle and an EV is that a hybrid uses an internal combustion engine (ICE) combined with an electric motor, while an EV only has an electric motor for power. A hybrid vehicle can switch between using gas and electric power for maximum efficiency, so you’ll still need to hit up the gas station occasionally. With an EV, power comes from the electric motor and a battery pack, which you must recharge regularly. You can recharge the battery by plugging it into a standard wall outlet or using a fast-charging station.
Because a hybrid vehicle has an ICE, you don’t have to plug it in to recharge the battery. Instead, hybrids have a regenerative system that replenishes battery power as you drive. You can’t drive as far on electric-only power with a hybrid as you can with a fully electrified motor. Another key difference between hybrids and EVs is that a hybrid requires oil to lubricate engine parts, whereas an EV doesn’t have the same complex parts and, therefore, doesn’t need oil. Both vehicle types have their pros and cons. Here’s a look at what they are.
Pros of Driving a Hybrid
The following benefits apply to driving a hybrid.
Fuel Efficient
A hybrid vehicle is more fuel-efficient than a gas-powered vehicle. With a hybrid SUV model, you can get an average of 35 mpg. To compare, a gasoline-only SUV gets an average of 29 mpg. Hybrid sedans can get 45 mpg on average, while ICE sedans average only 24 mpg.
Less Expensive Than an EV
It’s significantly less expensive to purchase a hybrid vehicle than an EV. On average, a hybrid vehicle costs around $40,000, while an EV costs more than $60,000. The price you pay will depend on the vehicle you buy and the incentives you receive.
Lots of Options
Hybrids are quite popular with drivers, and many automakers offer at least some of their vehicles as hybrid versions. This means you’ll have many options when choosing a hybrid vehicle to meet your needs.
No Charging Time
With a hybrid, you don’t have to worry about charging your vehicle. You won’t have to factor charge time into your day or be left waiting while powering up. You can go to the gas station like you do with your ICE vehicle.
Less Need for Maintenance
Your hybrid vehicle may not require as much maintenance as your gas-powered car. A hybrid is more efficient and puts less strain on the brakes and other engine components because it relies on the electric motor and battery for some of its power.
Cons of Driving a Hybrid
There are some downsides to driving a hybrid.
Less Power
Hybrids have less power than both ICE and EV cars, so you won’t get the same acceleration or power from their engines. This means slower acceleration times and less get-up-and-go when you choose a hybrid.
More Expensive Than a Standard Car
Although a hybrid vehicle is less expensive than an electric car, you’ll still pay more for one than you will a gas vehicle. On average, ICE vehicles cost around $34,000. So you’ll pay a few extra thousand dollars for a hybrid.
Harder To Find a Mechanic
It might be challenging to find a good mechanic in Bountiful to work on your hybrid vehicle. The engines combine an ICE with an electric motor and a battery, so it can be more complicated to work on them. Plus, the technology is still fairly new, meaning fewer mechanics have the training to care for these vehicles.
Pros of Driving an EV
Consider these advantages when deciding if an EV is right for you.
No Stopping for Fuel
One of the best things about owning an EV is that you no longer have to stop for fuel. Most EV drivers charge their cars at home overnight. You may need to use public chargers if you go on longer trips, but you can mainly charge your car from the comfort of your home.
Lower Maintenance Costs
An EV doesn’t need oil changes, new spark plugs, or other maintenance types that gas engines require. This significantly reduces upkeep costs for these vehicles.
Excellent Acceleration
The electric motor setup in an EV provides almost instant power. So, when you step on the acceleration pedal, you can get up to speed fast. EVs are also fun to drive, offering exceptional handling that responds quickly to your input.
No Emissions
EVs have zero tailpipe emissions because they don’t burn fuel. This makes them cleaner to drive. You’ll eliminate odors and fumes by driving an EV.
Cons of Driving an EV
Driving an EV has these potential downsides.
Limited Charging Network
The charging network for EVs is still limited. You may have a hard time finding a convenient charging station near where you need to go. Additionally, you may have to wait for a charging station if there aren’t many available.
Less Range
You can’t drive as far in an EV because they have a shorter range than most gas vehicles. While some EVs offer a range of over 300 miles, this estimated distance is based on ideal driving conditions. Taking trips out of Bountiful may require some planning.
High Purchase Cost
EVs use special batteries that cost more to produce than regular car batteries, and this drives up the vehicle purchase price. These cars often cost $50,000 or more, with the average EV being over $60,000. This is out of the average driver’s budget.
Is Driving a Hybrid or an EV Right for You?
Whether driving a hybrid or an EV around Bountiful is right for you will depend on your lifestyle. You can contact the team at Bountiful Mazda to find out more about electric and hybrid vehicles. Check out our new vehicle specials to find amazing deals on Mazdas of all types and sizes.
Image by CHUTTERSNAP | Licensed with Unsplash License
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