Hybrids? Plug-in Hybrids? EVs? What’s the difference?
Full Hybrid
A full hybrid is a car which can drive under its own electric power, petrol or a combination: an electric motor onboard is capable of driving the wheels under full e-power for a short distance, although most of the time the car will be driven by a mixture of combustion engine and electric motion.
Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV)
A plug-in hybrid, sometimes called a PHEV, is a step towards full electrification. PHEVs can go between 12 and 97 miles on electricity alone. Once the battery is drained, PHEVs operate like conventional hybrids and switch between petrol and electric operation seamlessly.
Now, PHEVs do require some extra effort. To get the maximum electric range every time you drive, you’ll need to plug into a charger daily, but the beauty of the PHEV is its flexibility.
For example the Kia Niro with fully-charged battery can travel 25 miles on electricity alone. That’s enough for most commutes. Add a full tank of gas, and the combined range extends to an impressive 560 miles. The PHEV’s best for people with short commutes who can take full advantage of the EV-only capabilities. Access to a charger in your home or workplace is essential to get the most out of a PHEV.
Electric Vehicle (EV)
Electric vehicles, or EVs are true to their name. Fully electric with no petrol engine even as a backup. Today’s EVs have EPA-estimated ranges between 57 and 335 miles, with most falling somewhere around 100 miles. Motorway driving, cold weather, and driving habits can all negatively impact an EV’s range in a dramatic fashion, and since you can’t just stop for gas, you need to plan your trips carefully.
Also, the EV driving experience is different from a traditional car. EVs offer a strong swell of power from a stop, something most drivers like. Let off, and the EV will begin harvesting energy to regenerate the battery charge. The braking effect from regeneration can be quite strong. It’s a little strange at first but a lot of fun once you get used to it.
EVs are best for urban drivers who have a short commute, access to a charger, and are comfortable planning a charging strategy ahead of time so they don’t run out of juice on the road. If you need to travel longer distances occasionally, you want to visit a site like PlugShare to locate public chargers near you.
For or more information on electric cars please feel free to contact Sandicliffe Kia on Vernon Road, call 0115 790 552 and they will be happy to help.