Which Type of Electric Vehicle is Right for You?

Difference Between Battery Electric, Hybrid, Hybrid Electric and Fuel Cell Vehicles

Even just a decade ago, options for electric and hybrid vehicles were slim. There are many reasons for this, including the fact that electric technology had room for advancement and that many drivers were skeptical about adopting electric mobility solutions.

In the last few years, however, a number of battery-powered vehicles have made their way to the auto market. The technology and buyers’ desire for these types of cars has finally aligned. But if you are looking at buying one of these vehicles for the first time, you may have some questions.

Electric vs Hybrid vs Fuel Cell

When we speak about battery-powered vehicles, we aren’t just referring to fully electric cars. The truth is, there is quite a variety of vehicles that come with an electric battery. These include fuel cell vehicles, hybrids, plug-in hybrid and, of course, fully electric models.

Fuel cell vehicles are perhaps the least well-known and common here in the United States, but they are an option for electric mobility. While these models do contain a battery, they are also powered by fuel. The difference is, however, that the fuel is hydrogen rather than gasoline or diesel.

The combination of gasoline engines and electric motors/batteries is much more common here in the U.S. This is what is referred to as a hybrid. The engine and the motor work together to power the vehicle, offering a much more efficient driving experience. Plug-in hybrids are similar, but unlike a typical hybrid, these models allow for optional fully electric driving and the ability to charge the electric battery.

The fully electric driving range on these models is usually limited, though. That is why fully electric cars exist, allowing you hundreds of miles of fully electric driving range with no fuel fill-ups required. It is pure battery electric power.

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Now that you’ve learned a bit about your options, get in touch with us here at Rairdon’s CDJR of Monroe to learn more or to experience electric power for yourself.