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Understanding the Difference Between Hybrid, PHEV and EV Cars

Posted on September 24, 2023

Over the past few years, the demand for eco-friendly vehicles has risen, and there are several options to help you save on fuel costs and encourage sustainability. But you’ll want to understand the various differences between hybrids, plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) and fully electric vehicles (EVs) before making a purchase. Read on to find out more about them.

 

Battery Pack

 

Backed up by an internal combustion engine for extra power, hybrids use a smaller battery for low-speed city driving. PHEVs and EVs sport larger batteries, which bring with them more power and the ability to travel longer distances and go higher speeds. However, this also means that they are more expensive. Note that when a PHEV's battery depletes, it switches to hybrid mode, offering continued performance.

 

Charging and Driving Range

 

Hybrid vehicles recharge their battery pack through a generator attached to the gasoline engine or through regenerative braking. With little reliance on electricity, these cars have no standard full-electric driving range. Because EVs and PHEVs are all-electric, they can have ranges anywhere from 40 km all the way up to 415 km. In any case, the car should be charged overnight with a standard 120V or 240V charger. 

 

Fuel Efficiency

 

Hybrids and PHEVs boast great gas mileage to go along with the distance they can travel in all-electric mode. For example, hybrids like Toyota Prius can go as low as 4 L / 100km, while PHEVs like the Kia Niro can get nearly 5 L / 100km and go nearly 50 km in all-electric mode. However, some PHEVs can get worse mileage than gas vehicles if you don’t keep them charged, so make sure you stay on top of that. That is especially true for EVs, which can travel great distances when they’re fully charged.

 

Incentives and Pricing

 

The cost of owning an electric vehicle depends on performance and features. PHEVs and EVs usually cost more because of their larger battery pack and range. When it comes to incentives, hybrid cars have none, while EVs and PHEVs have two levels. Drivers with electric vehicles can enjoy a point-of-sale incentive of up to $2,500 for ranges under 50km and $5,000 for ranges of 50 km or more.

 

Which One Should I Choose?

 

Finding the best electric car depends on several factors, including charging accessibility, budget and driving style. Short-distance drivers going 40 km or less should go for the PHEV, which reduces trips to the gas station. However, a hybrid model would work fine if you can't afford the extra costs. The ultimate decision would depend on your individual needs and requirements.

 

Book Your Test Drive in Peterborough Today!

 

Electric vehicles can help you save on fuel costs, especially if you are a short-distance driver. Visit us at Peterborough Hyundai to check out our electric and hybrid vehicle inventory as we explain the available payment options for the hybrids, PHEVs and EVs we have in stock .