Hybrid vs. Plug-in Hybrid: What’s the Difference?

If you’re looking for a new vehicle that will also lessen your carbon footprint, you’ll probably consider hybrid and electric vehicles. Albuquerque drivers might be familiar with the hybrid combo of gasoline engines and electric capability. However, what about plug-in hybrid models? What’s the difference?

The difference between hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles can be explained simply. Conventional hybrid cars use simultaneous gas and electric power with a normal sized battery. A plug-in hybrid, however, begins your drive with energy from a larger battery and then switches to a gas option when necessary. Read on with this guide from Toyota of Santa Fe about the differences between hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles below.

Hybrid vs. Plug-in Hybrid: Hybrid Benefits

Toyota Hybrid models like the Camry Hybrid utilize a combination of a gasoline engine and an electric motor. The electric motor is powered by a battery pack that recharges while driving on Rio Rancho roads. Here are some additional benefits of a hybrid model:

• Lower Emissions: By combining electric power with a gasoline engine, hybrid vehicles emit fewer greenhouse gasses and pollutants compared to traditional gasoline-only vehicles.
• Seamless Transition: Hybrid vehicles automatically utilize gasoline and electric power simultaneously, without the need to stop and re-charge the battery.

Hybrid vs. Plug-in Hybrid: PHEV Benefits

Like hybrid models, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV) utilize gasoline and electricity, but the energy output differs from the conventional hybrids. These vehicles can be charged by plugging into an external power source, allowing for extended electric range. Once your battery is drained from driving around Espanola, it’ll switch over to the gas engine. The important difference is that the gas engine works more as a backup plan. Here’s what you can expect from a PHEV vehicle:

• Extended Electric Range: Plug-in hybrid cars allow you to drive on all-electric power for a certain number of miles. Just remember that you have to charge the battery first!
• Environmentally Friendly: Plug-in hybrids are generally better for the environment than their hybrid counterparts, since they can drive on pure electric power when you’re running around town every day.

Compare the Differences Between Hybrid and Plug-In Hybrid Vehicles With Toyota of Santa Fe!

Are you familiar with the difference between hybrid and plug-in hybrid models? Make an upgrade today by visiting our dealership near Santa Fe. We have a model showroom stocked with both traditional hybrid and plug-in hybrid options. We can also answer additional questions you might have about hybrid vehicles, like how often you need to change the battery.