Plug-In vs. Hybrid vs. Electric: What’s the difference

Are you considering adding a more efficient vehicle to your Orange County garage this year? But which one works best with your lifestyle and Huntington Beach commute? The Beach Boulevard of Cars dealership community offers you a wide range of options and the information needed to make an informed choice.

How does a hybrid vehicle work?

A hybrid SUV, truck, or car has a gas engine and a small electric motor powered by a battery pack. Together, the engine and the motor improve your fuel economy without the need to use a plug-in charging station. Some models, like the 2022 Honda Insight, can reach an EPA-estimated 52 mpg highway. Other popular hybrid models include the 2022 Toyota Prius, the 2023 Honda CR-V, and the 2023 Hyundai IONIQ.

What makes a plug-in hybrid different?

A plug-in hybrid still has a gas engine under the hood, but its electric motor and battery pack are powerful enough to complete a short commute or a run to the store of about 20 to 30 miles without engaging the engine. The battery pack requires you to plug it into a charging station before you can use the electric-only mode again to pick up the kids. It will keep running on gas alone when your battery pack is depleted. Some available plug-in hybrids include the 2022 Kia Niro Plug-in Hybrid, the 2023 Hyundai Tucson Plug-in Hybrid, and the 2022 Subaru Crosstrek Plug-in Hybrid.

Can I save on maintenance with an electric vehicle?

An electric vehicle has no gas engine that will need oil and filter changes. Its battery packs come with a minimum 8-year/100,000-mile warranty. So, while you will still be buying new tires, you can save on visits to the service center while your EV is under its original warranty. Check out models like the 2023 Toyota bZ4x and the 2023 Chevrolet Bolt.

How far can you drive in a hybrid, plug-in, or electric vehicle?

Many hybrid vehicles have a driving range between 400 and 600 miles using a full tank of gas. The 2022 Toyota Prius can reach 633 miles between fill-ups. Your plug-in hybrid will have similar results when using the gas and electric motor combined. However, in EV mode, expect to travel up to 30 miles without using the gas engine. The 2022 Ford Escape PHEV is able to run for 37 miles on a full charge.

A few all-electric vehicles on the market can achieve a 500-mile driving range, but they are in the ultra-elite. The 2023 Ford F-150 Lightning can reach 320 miles on a full charge in optimal driving conditions. Most new EVs earn between 200 and 300 miles and need at least 45 minutes to recharge up to 80% at a Level III station.

Do you need to charge a hybrid at home?

No, a regular hybrid vehicle never needs to get plugged in to recharge its batteries. They recharge during normal operation and while braking. A plug-in hybrid does need to be recharged to make the best use of its EV mode.

Do you need a fancy charging station for an EV or plug-in hybrid?

While a Level II charger is recommended for your new EV or plug-in hybrid, your new efficient vehicle will come with a charging cable that can be plugged into your average power outlet. It will take a long time to fully charge using this method–even days.

Installing a Level II charging station at your home will enable you to fully charge your EV overnight, in time for the morning commute. Ask about manufacturer, state, and federal incentives that help to defray the cost of adding this type of station to your home.

Are you ready to take a hybrid, EV, or plug-in vehicle out for a test drive? Visit us at the Beach Boulevard of Cars to find your new eco-friendly vehicle today.