Discovering the Benefits of Hybrid Cars

Whether you already own a hybrid car or are considering buying one it's important to understand the advantages and disadvantages of this friendly automotive choice. Let's delve into the workings of hybrid cars and how they can transform your driving experience.

What Makes a Car Hybrid?

Hybrid vehicles (HEVs) typically combine two types of propulsion systems; a motor powered by a rechargeable battery pack and an internal combustion engine (ICE) that usually runs on gasoline. The electric motor(s) fueled by the voltage battery pack propel the car at speeds while the combustion engine provides additional power, for higher velocities. Electric, hybrid and conventional gasoline vehicles have their characteristics and it's the integration of electric motor(s) with an ICE that sets hybrids apart.

There are differences between plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) and HEVs. HEVs generally use both an ICE and a high voltage electric drive system for propulsion and the battery is replenished through braking. 

On the other hand, plug-in vehicles (PHEVs) have a battery pack that can be refueled by connecting a charging cable to an external electric power source. The mechanism used by PHEVs involves utilizing the larger battery, for electric mode until a significant portion of the charge is depleted. After that, it switches to hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) mode using the remaining battery charge - the internal combustion engine (ICE) or a combination of both.

As manufacturing costs decrease and accessibility to hybrid cars has improved, becoming more common and more within the reach for drivers. To help you develop a better understanding of this category of vehicles, we’ve listed some of the top benefits of owning a hybrid car.

The Benefits of Owning a Hybrid Car

Environmental Friendliness of Hybrid Cars

Compared to gasoline vehicles’ hybrid versions offer numerous eco-friendly advantages. From reducing emissions to improving fuel efficiency, choosing a hybrid car results in reduced carbon footprint. When considering the pros, you can keep this key benefit in mind. 

Improved Fuel Efficiency

Hybrid cars rely on both a motor and a gasoline engine, which leads to efficient fuel consumption, for propulsion and ultimately better fuel efficiency. They reduce reliance on fossil fuels by utilizing the high voltage battery pack and electric motor(s) for propulsion.

Reduced CO2 Emissions

Unlike petrol vehicles, hybrids boast fuel efficiency and conserve more energy resulting in fewer carbon emissions.

Regenerative Braking

The braking system in vehicles generates energy that contributes to recharging the high voltage battery, potentially resulting in lower fuel consumption.

Lower Maintenance Requirements

Vehicles with their hybridized powertrain consisting of the high voltage battery pack, electric motor and internal combustion engine (ICE) experience less wear and tear on the engine. This setup helps alleviate the strain associated with vehicles leading to reduced repair and routine maintenance expenses overall. Please note that specific maintenance costs may vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle.

Improved Resale Value

As gas prices continue to rise and more people opt for fuel alternatives there is a growing demand for hybrid cars. Consequently, hybrids have seen an increase in their resale value. If you decide to trade or sell your hybrid vehicle there is a possibility of getting a higher return on your investment compared to a standard vehicle.

Alleviated "Range Anxiety"

Owners of battery-operated vehicles often experience "range anxiety," which refers to concerns about running out of charge during a journey. However, this concern is mitigated in hybrid vehicles as they offer both a motor and an internal combustion engine, for extended travel range without worrying about charging infrastructure limitations.

Drivers of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) generally experience less ‘range anxiety’. In the event that the high voltage battery runs out of charge the vehicle seamlessly transitions to relying on its internal combustion engine (ICE). This automatic switch provides a sense of reassurance especially considering the availability of gasoline stations.