HYBRID vs ELECTRIC cars! WHICH is BEST for you? Find out!

In recent years, the global automotive market has been transformed by the growing demand for more sustainable vehicles, electric and hybrid cars.

Among the available options, electric and hybrid cars stand out. However, many consumers still have questions about the differences between the various types of electric vehicles.

In this article, we will explore the different models of electric and hybrid cars, their features, advantages, disadvantages, and how each of them works.

Models of Electric and Hybrid Cars

When we talk about electric and hybrid cars, it is important to understand that there are several categories. The main types available around the world include:

• Traditional Hybrid
• Plug-in Hybrid
• Extended Range Electric
• Mild Hybrid

Traditional Hybrid

The traditional hybrid is the best-known model among consumers. This type of vehicle combines a combustion engine with an electric motor. A popular example worldwide is the Toyota Corolla, which is the world’s only flex-fuel hybrid.

These cars work as follows: the electric motor and the combustion engine can operate together or independently. When the car is stopped or under light acceleration, the electric motor takes over, saving fuel. After reaching a certain speed, the combustion engine is activated to provide more power.

An important feature is that traditional hybrids do not need to be plugged in, as the combustion engine charges the battery while the car is in motion. Additionally, they typically have limited electric autonomy, not exceeding 5 km in fully electric mode.

Plug-in Hybrid

The plug-in hybrid is an evolution of the traditional hybrid. It can be charged from an outlet, allowing for much greater electric autonomy, usually between 50 to 60 km. This means that for short trips, it is possible to use only electric energy, saving fuel.

These vehicles are equipped with larger batteries and more powerful electric motors. However, it is important to mention that while the electric range is significant, a combustion engine is still necessary for longer trips, as the battery eventually depletes.

One point to consider is that, unlike traditional hybrids, plug-in hybrids generally need to be charged regularly to maximize the efficiency of the electric motor.

Extended Range Electric

Extended-range electric cars run exclusively on an electric motor but have a combustion engine that acts solely as a generator to charge the battery.

This means that while the car is in motion, the combustion engine does not drive the wheels but provides power to the batteries when necessary.

An example is the BMW i3, which can run only in electric mode but has a combustion engine to ensure the battery doesn’t run out during the trip.

This setup offers excellent fuel efficiency, but it’s worth noting that even though the combustion engine doesn’t move the wheels, it is still part of the system.

Mild Hybrid

The mild hybrid, also known as a micro-hybrid, is a technology that is beginning to gain traction around the world.

These vehicles have an electric motor that assists the combustion engine in specific situations, such as during start-up or sudden accelerations. However, the electric motor is not enough to operate the car on its own.

This system helps reduce fuel consumption and pollutant emissions, but it doesn’t offer the same savings as traditional or plug-in hybrids.

Kia and Chery have already introduced mild hybrid models worldwide, showing that this technology is quickly expanding.

Comparing the Models

Now that we know the different types of electric and hybrid cars, let’s compare their features and advantages.

Autonomy and Efficiency

• Traditional Hybrid: Limited electric autonomy (about 5 km), but efficient in urban situations.
• Plug-in Hybrid: High electric autonomy (50-60 km) and the ability to run solely on electric power for short trips.
• Extended Range Electric: Operates entirely on electric power, but with a combustion engine as a generator, offering great fuel economy.
• Mild Hybrid: Assistive system that improves efficiency but doesn’t fully operate in electric mode.

Advantages and Disadvantages

• Traditional Hybrid: Advantage of not needing to plug in, but with very low electric autonomy.
• Plug-in Hybrid: Allows extensive use of electric mode but requires regular charging.
• Extended Range Electric: Highly efficient, but relies on the combustion engine to charge the batteries.
• Mild Hybrid: More affordable and simple but offers less fuel savings compared to other types.