Hybrid vs. PHEV vs. Electric
If you’re interested in saving money on fuel or doing your part to help the environment, you’ve probably heard of hybrid, plug-in hybrid (PHEV), and electric vehicles. While all three involve some form of electric power to boost efficiency and performance, there are a number of key differences that separate each type of vehicle. To help you better understand the main differences between these three types of vehicles, our team at the Germain Motor Company has assembled this helpful reference guide. You’ll discover the main advantages and disadvantages of driving a hybrid, PHEV, or electric vehicle.
Hybrid Vehicles
Hybrid vehicles have been on the market for over two decades, easily recognizable by drivers searching for a solution for boosting their fuel economy and spending less at the pump. While their powertrain does feature an electric motor that’s able to assist at low speeds, hybrid owners don’t need to worry about plug-in in their vehicles in order to drive. They also feature regenerative braking systems that can recapture energy typically lost during braking for use at a later time by storing it inside of a battery pack. Since hybrid technology has been around for more than 20 years, these systems have been proven to be highly efficient and reliable simultaneously.
Hybrid Advantages
- Proven technology
- Increased fuel economy and reduced emissions
- No need to plug-in and charge
- You can refuel at a regular gas station
Plug-In Hybrid Vehicles (PHEV)
Bridging the gap between hybrids and full electric vehicles, plug-in hybrid vehicles deliver electric range for short trips along with long-distance driving abilities thanks to their conventional gasoline engines. PHEVs are equipped with a larger battery pack compared to a regular hybrid, allowing them to store and use more electric power. Drivers have the flexibility to charge up using Level 1 charging using a standard household outlet and drive around town using electric power. Headed across the state for a weekend getaway? The gasoline engine adds hundreds of miles of additional range, eliminating any range anxiety concerns. Offering the best of both worlds, PHEVs offer a mix of impressive efficiency and practical driving range.
PHEV Advantages
- Flexibility to drive short distances on electric power and long distances using gas power
- Electric efficiency with no range anxiety
- Potential tax incentive eligibility
- Larger battery capacity for more around-town EV travel
Electric Vehicles
Ready to experience the unrivaled efficiency and exhilaration that comes from driving an all-electric vehicle? With more and more EVs debuting each year, shoppers now have more EV choices than ever before. In addition to more choices, electric powertrains now boast total driving ranges of more than 200 miles! Better still, many EVs are now able to charge using a standard household outlet (Level 1), at your home using a dedicated charging station (Level 2), or at fast charging stations located in public areas like rest stops, shopping centers, or office complexes (Level 3). Flexible charging options help you go further without working about when and where you’ll be able to charge. Another benefit of EVs is their smooth, refined power delivery characteristics.
EV Advantages
- Emission-free driving with high-capacity battery packs and long-distance range
- Smooth, seamless power delivery for refinement and exhilaration
- Lower maintenance and energy costs compared to traditional vehicles
- Reduce your impact on the environment and energy dependence