Hybrid vs. Electric: Which is Right for You?

As gas prices rise and fuel-free technology matures, there’s never been a better time to invest in an EV! Electric vehicles, however, aren’t a monoculture—in fact, there are several different types of vehicles that use electricity. The difference between a hybrid vs. electric car is that hybrids run on both an electric motor and a combustion engine, while an electric vehicle runs on electric power alone.

Not sure which will fit better into your lifestyle in Hood River? We’ve outlined the benefits and potential drawbacks of hybrid cars vs. electric cars in the guide below.

Hybrid Cars vs. Electric Cars: the Basics

Driving either a hybrid or an electric vehicle will use less fuel than conventional vehicles, but they are different in some fundamental ways. First, we’ll look at the defining characteristics of hybrids and EVs:

Hybrid Cars

Hybrid vehicles run primarily on a combustion engine, which is paired with a secondary electric motor to increase fuel efficiency. If you’re apprehensive about making the leap to an electric vehicle, you might appreciate that a hybrid won’t require you to change anything about the way you drive in Goldendale, WA. That’s because the electric motor in a hybrid is self-charging, so you can continue to drive as normal without plugging into a power source.

Electric Cars

An EV doesn’t use an engine at all, so it has a larger battery to power its electric motor. Fueling up is different with an EV, but once you get used to it, many drivers feel that it’s more convenient. With a home charging system installed in your garage, you can charge your car overnight, much like you charge your phone. Electric range varies by EV model, but you can usually get between 200 and 300 miles from a single full charge.

Why Buy a Hybrid Vehicle?

If you have a long commute or frequently travel in areas that may not yet have EV charging stations, you may be more comfortable with a hybrid. Or, consider a plug-in hybrid, which offers the capability to plug in and drive on electric power alone and the assurance of a gasoline engine. Other hybrid benefits include:

• The battery charges itself
• You can fuel up at any Portland gas station
• Hybrids are typically priced lower than EVs

Why Buy an Electric Vehicle?

If you’re looking for the most efficient vehicle possible, then choose an EV! A fully electric car will also save you money; charging an EV at home—and even at public charging stations in Portland—costs significantly less each year than filling up with gas. Here’s what you might appreciate about an EV:

• Low or zero tailpipe emissions
• Quieter ride with no engine noise
• No money spent on gas
• Lower maintenance costs (you’ll never need an oil change!)
• Potential EV incentives based on your location
• Flexible charging options, including home and public options

Compare Hybrid vs. Electric Cars at C. H. Urness Motors Co.

No matter what kind of driving experience you’re looking for with your next new vehicle, we’re here to help find the perfect fit. Find out how you can save on a premium EV with new vehicle specials or by trading in your current car at C. H. Urness Motors Co.!