Hybrid vs. Electric: Which is Right for You?

Although many Bakersfield-area drivers are considering newer green technology when they trade in their conventional gas-powered vehicles, they often wonder if they should choose a hybrid vs. electric car for their next vehicle. Compare the differences between hybrid cars vs. electric cars with Coastal Chevrolet so you can make an educated decision.

Hybrid Cars vs. Electric Cars: the Basics

Follow along as we dive into the features and benefits of hybrid vs. electric cars. Let’s begin by going over the tech that drives both of these powertrains.

Hybrid Cars

Technically, hybrid vehicles are still gas-powered, which is one big difference between hybrid vs. electric cars. Unlike traditional gas-powered vehicles, however, hybrids aren’t fully reliant on the gas engine to generate power for forward motion. Accompanying the gas engine in hybrid vehicles is a secondary electric motor. The gas engine and electric motor work together to provide power as you drive through Thousand Oaks, allowing for significant improvements in gas mileage. The battery for the electric motor in hybrid vehicles self-charges, so you never have to plug into a power source. 

Electric Cars

An electric vehicle (EV) runs solely on electric power. There is no engine, only a battery and electric motor. The battery in EVs is much larger than in hybrids because it plays a more significant role in providing power for the vehicle to run. Electric vehicles can be plugged into a home or public charging station to charge the battery. Depending on how much charge the battery has, the mileage range you have to work within an electric vehicle will vary. Models like the Equinox EV provide an electric range of up to 319 miles when charged to 100%. 

Benefits of Hybrid Vehicles

Hybrid cars are a good option for Ventura drivers who are a little apprehensive about making the switch from gas to electric. You’ll be able to earn serious fuel savings without having to change your driving habits. Other hybrid benefits include:

• The battery charges itself
• You can stop and fuel up at any gas station
• Hybrids are often more affordable than EVs

Bottom line? If you have a lengthy commute or want the freedom to go on road trips without worrying about running out of power on the road, a hybrid vehicle is probably the best option! You can stop at any gas station to fuel up quickly, just like you’re accustomed to with a traditional gas engine. 

Benefits of Electric Vehicles

So what is one big difference between hybrid vs. electric vehicles? EVs eliminate the use of gas, leading to significant long-term savings. Not only are they friendly for your wallet, but also for the environment. If you’d like to increase your efficiency and decrease your footprint, an EV may just be your next daily driver. Common EV benefits include:

• Low or zero tailpipe emissions
• Quieter ride with no engine noise
• No money spent on gas 
• Fewer maintenance costs (no oil changes or engine upkeep)
• Potential EV incentives based on your location 
• Flexible charging options, including home and public options

If your daily driving mostly consists of quick trips around the Santa Barbara area, you may be able to consider an EV! With vehicles like the Blazer EV offering a total electric range of up to 324 miles on a single full charge, longer trips aren’t out of the question, either. The number of public EV charging stations is constantly increasing, so it’s only becoming easier to plan road trip routes in an EV. 

Compare Hybrid vs. Electric Cars at Coastal Chevrolet

Now that you have a better understanding of how hybrid cars vs. electric cars work, as well as their advantages and disadvantages, it’s time to experience our lineup to see which one is best for your needs and budget. Contact us today to explore our new vehicle inventory, including our electrified models. We look forward to your visit to our Santa Barbara showroom!