Drivers considering purchasing a new or new-to-them used vehicle have a lot to think about when making this decision. Not only are comfort and style features important, but it’s also key to choose a vehicle that fits each driver’s lifestyle and needs.
In recent years, interest in electric and hybrid vehicles has been on the rise, particularly as fuel prices rise. Now, more people are giving plug-in cars a second look.
If you’re looking to choose between a hybrid or electric model, there are a few things you should know to help you make this decision.
While many people are familiar with the concept of electric vehicles, it’s important to understand the available choices here, and the difference between them.
First up are electric vehicles, or EVs. These models use only electric battery power, and include no combustion engine. These vehicles can support ranges of around 100 to nearly 400 miles on a full charge, depending on the model. Because these are fully electric cars, though, they must be plugged in and charged, either through public chargers or residential home charging stations.
Hybrid cars, on the other hand, include the battery-power capabilities of EVs, but also have a backup gasoline engine that can take over if the electric battery runs low. In this way, hybrids run on traditional gasoline as well as electric power, and can be plugged in or gassed up like a regular car. As AutoTrader pointed out, though, the electric battery on most hybrid models typically only supports about a 40-mile driving distance, at which point the combustion engine turns on.
A main differentiating factor for drivers often comes down to the price of gas in their local area, compared with the cost of electricity. Certain states have higher gas prices than others, particularly when you factor in the state’s gas tax — which can be as high as 60 cents per gallon, in the case of California.
These costs can really add up, especially for hybrid drivers who may need to travel longer distances than their battery engine can support.
Speaking of distance, it’s also important for drivers to consider the kind of range that their EV or hybrid can offer, and how many miles they typically drive on a regular day.
While different models of EVs vary in their battery ranges, NewMotion noted that on average, EVs usually have an average range of about 180 miles on a single charge. However, some models can support considerably longer ranges, like the Tesla Model S, which boasts a 402-mile range.
When making this consideration, though, it isn’t just about how far the vehicle can travel — drivers should also think about their own habits. People who don’t need to drive far on a typical day might opt for an EV, whereas those who usually travel longer distances might instead pick a hybrid, due to the fact that the gas engine can take over if the battery power is exhausted.
In addition to saving on fuel, EV drivers can also benefit from lower car maintenance costs.
“And consider, you’ll be saving on other vehicle maintenance costs — no more oil changes, tune-ups, replaced mufflers or catalytic converters,” WIRED pointed out.
However, many EVs and hybrids are priced a bit higher than traditional gasoline engine cars, and this comes due to the cost of the battery. Thankfully, though, factors like reduced gas expenses, less maintenance and available tax credits help balance this out.
One of the biggest benefits of choosing an EV or hybrid over a traditional car is the reduced environmental impact. Combustion engines are some of the largest contributors to greenhouse gases, and many drivers concerned with their carbon footprint choose a fully electric vehicle for this reason.
While some drivers worry about having access to a charging station when their vehicle needs it, this is becoming less of a concern.
As Consumer Reports noted, the public charging infrastructure for EVs and hybrids is growing in many areas, including at traditional gas stations and other retail businesses.
In addition, drivers also have the option to invest in residential charging stations for their own homes. In this way, once you return from a day out, you can plug in your vehicle and ensure it is fully charged for the next outing.
Webasto provides several choices for residential charging, including cords that can charge EVs up to three times faster than the Level 1 cords that come with their vehicles.
Check out our website and connect with Webasto today to set up an appointment with a professional installer.