Hybrid vs. Plug-In Hybrid: Everything You Need To Know
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With the surging gas prices nowadays, many people are looking past pure petrol vehicles and looking for alternatives. Pure electric cars come into mind, but many aren’t quite ready to make that total commitment to go electric. If you’re someone who has this problem, you’re likely looking to go the hybrid car route. Even if that’s the case, you’re also facing another choice: Hybrid vs. plug-in hybrid.
What is the difference between hybrid and plug-in hybrid cars, and which is better?
Understanding the differences between these two vehicle power types and their respective pros and cons is key to making the right decision. For this guide, we’ll walk you through the main difference between a hybrid and a plug-in hybrid and everything else you need to know.
What is a Hybrid Car, and How Does It Work?
Conventional hybrid electric vehicles are equipped with an internal combustion engine and an electric motor powered by energy stored in batteries. Unlike fully electric cars and plug-in hybrids, a hybrid car can’t be plugged in to charge its batteries. Instead, it uses a regenerative braking mechanism to charge the battery and boost efficiency.
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In a standard car, stepping on the brake pedal is wasted energy. When you step on a hybrid car’s brake pedal, regenerative braking takes the wasted process of slowing down the car and recharges the batteries. So when you lift off your foot from the accelerator and onto the brake pedal, the electric motor switches directions and returns energy into the battery.
The supplemental power provided by the electric motor enables the gas engine to turn off at low speeds or while coasting. Also, the extra energy may allow manufacturers to use a smaller engine and reduce engine idling when stopped. These all add up to better fuel economy while retaining performance.
Pros and Cons of Hybrid
To help you determine if hybrid is right for you, here’s a quick rundown of pros and cons that you should know:
Pros
- Excellent fuel economy - Most people bought a hybrid due to better fuel economy. Hybrid vehicles are 25 to 33 percent more fuel-efficient than their gas-powered counterparts.
- No plugging in required - If you don’t like the idea of tethering your car to a charging station, a traditional hybrid is for you. As mentioned, you don’t need to be plugged in to charge your vehicle, just drive like normal.
- Eco-friendlier - Hybrid vehicles still use gasoline, so they’re not 100% eco-friendly, unlike pure electric cars. However, compared to conventional gas vehicles, hybrids are better for the environment.
- Requires less maintenance - Since hybrid cars use two different power sources, there’s less wear and tear on the vehicle. They require less maintenance than vehicles that rely solely on combustion engines.
Cons
- More upfront cost - While you’ll be saving at the pump, hybrid cars are more expensive, and the difference ranges from $1,000 to $3,000 compared to similar gas-only models.
- Maintenance may be more expensive - Although hybrids require less maintenance, shop visits can be more expensive, especially when you need to replace the battery.
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What is a Plug-in Hybrid Car, and How Does It Work?
Plug-in hybrids or PHEVs are the happy medium between conventional hybrids and fully electric cars. Unlike hybrids powered by both an internal combustion engine and an electric motor, plug-in hybrids are powered primarily by an electric motor and only use the combustion engine as a backup in case the motor runs out of juice.
One of the distinct qualities of PHEVs is that they have larger batteries than regular hybrids have. Their large batteries allow plug-in hybrids to run on pure electric power without gas. Many PHEVs can drive up to 25 miles or more on a single charge. Because as their name implies, plug-in hybrids have to be charged in a standard 120 or 240-volt charging station.
Charging times can vary greatly depending on the size of the battery, the type of volt charger used, and the manufacturer. The larger the battery packs, the further the range, and the longer the charging times. Generally, you may expect charging times from two to six hours. Using a 240-volt charger can significantly reduce the charging times compared to a 120-volt type.
Basically, plug-in hybrids are more versatile versions of the standard hybrid car. Remember that plug-in hybrids can also work in “hybrid” mode that uses the combination of gas engine and electric, as long as you keep gas in the tank. This is similar to how hybrids function, regenerative braking included.
Pros and Cons of Plug-in Hybrid
Below are the benefits and drawbacks of plug-in hybrid cars:
Pros
- Better range - Plug-in hybrids can take you further than traditional hybrids due to larger batteries and the ability to work in hybrid mode.
- Better fuel economy - Besides being more fuel-efficient than gas vehicles, plug-in hybrid cars are also more fuel-efficient than hybrids. It’s ideal for daily commutes where you may only have to use electric power exclusively.
- Versatility - Apart from running on pure electric power for short trips, plug-in hybrids can go on longer trips without worrying about recharging and range limitations.
- Tax incentives - Some PHEVs are still eligible for tax incentives up to $7,500.
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Cons
- More expensive - Plug-in hybrids cost more than traditional hybrids, and the difference can be as much as $10,000. That’s not even including accessories like home chargers.
- Charging required - Plug-in hybrids must be charged regularly to get the most benefit. Charging can be tricky if you live in a multi-unit address or without access to off-street parking. Also, some PHEVs are less fuel-efficient when running in hybrid mode than when compared to standard hybrids.
- Less cargo space - Plug-in components can eat up precious cargo space, resulting in less room for your stuff.
Hybrid vs. Plug-In Hybrid: Which is Right for You?
The idea to drive on purely electrical power is an attractive proposition for many people. In this case, a plug-in hybrid is the way to go. However, some folks don’t like the idea of charging their cars, and they’re not ready financially, in which case, standard hybrids may be the better option.
Regardless of your choice, both will cut down your fuel costs and carbon emissions and are great stepping stones toward going fully electric.
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