Hybrids are becoming more and more popular, with many car manufacturers now offering hybrid models. The benefits of using a hybrid vehicle are numerous, which is why they’re quickly becoming the go-to choice for environmentally conscious drivers. Here’s everything you need to know about hybrids so that you can make an informed decision.
Some of the benefits of hybrids include:
- Lower emissions
- Better mileage
- Great performance
- Tax Benefits
- Reduce your carbon footprint
- Special warranties are often available for the battery pack
- Reduced noise pollution
What is the Difference Between Hybrid Car and Electric Vehicle?
The term hybrid car is often used to describe a car with a small internal combustion engine, which is powered by a battery. Many modern hybrid cars have an electric motor that can be used for extra power when needed. Hybrid cars are usually more fuel efficient than most other vehicles. Many people prefer to own hybrid cars because of their low fuel costs and to be more environmentally friendly.
What is the Advantage of Hybrid Cars?
Hybrid Cars combine the best features of vehicles powered with gas and those powered by electricity. They have the best of both worlds. For example, a hybrid car has both a gas engine and an electric motor. Also, hybrid cars are more economical than other cars because they use less energy in everyday driving. These cars can get up to 30 miles per gallon, which is twice as much as traditional gasoline-powered cars.
How Much Do Hybrid Cars Cost?
One of the most common objections for people considering buying a hybrid is the sticker price of the vehicle. While the upfront cost can be high, over the long-term fuel savings, it could actually save you money. Like any style of car, you can find more budget-friendly hybrid vehicles and expensive luxury hybrid cars. If you want to see some of the hybrid cars on the market that we reccomend, check out our blog on the top 10 hybrid cars to buy.
Hybrids Save Money on Gasoline
If you have ever driven a hybrid or know someone who owns a hybrid, then you know that the potential to save money is a very real factor. This is particularly true for those who are doing a lot of city driving and/or make relatively short trips.
If you are making short trips and thus don't have to switch over to gasoline, the cost savings of using a hybrid can be very significant. In fact, many hybrid owners have noted that they rarely fill up their car's gas tank. Of course, if you are driving longer distances, you will not have the exact same experience, but you can be sure that a hybrid will save you money regardless.
Solar Power and Hybrids
You might not instantly think about solar power and hybrids, but even a small investment in solar panels for your garage's rooftop can work wonders on cutting down on your gas bill, especially in summer months. Around the world many people have found that they can essentially drive for free if they are doing most of their driving in the city and recharging their car's battery with solar.
Hybrids Can Dramatically Increase Your Overall Fuel Efficiency
There is just no way around it; hybrid vehicles can dramatically increase your overall efficiency. Every moment that you are not using gasoline can serve to increase your fuel efficiency, and this is an advantage that can translate into serious cost savings. Charging your car's battery may not be free, but you will save money over filling up the tank at the gas station.
So how much money will you save exactly? It depends on how much you drive, of course. However, there is a calculator at the US Department of Energy website that might help you approximate the answer to this question: http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/savemoney.shtml.
Conclusion
Whether you simply want to reduce your carbon footprint or you want a vehicle that’s more reliable, there are many reasons to consider a hybrid vehicle. Today we’ve covered how hybrids work, some of their advantages, and even a few of their disadvantages. The decision is up to you, but if you’re interested in learning more about hybrids and what they can do for you, fill out our application so we can connect you with a local dealer that can help you get into a hybrid.