If you are looking for a new vehicle, you might want to consider a hybrid vehicle for your next purchase. Hybrid, including plug-in hybrids, are becoming more widely available in many styles. Hybrids have several advantages over gasoline-powered engines. thanks to technological improvements over the years. Here is more information about new hybrid vehicles and the kinds that are currently available.
What Is a Hybrid Vehicle?
The term "hybrid vehicle" refers to a vehicle that runs partially on gasoline and partially on electric battery power. Different models have different combinations of these methods. The different methods involve how and when the battery is charged. Vehicles can run on batteries first, then switch to gasoline when the battery runs down. Or they can alternate between battery and gasoline as they are driven.
Vehicles vary on how their batteries recharge. On some cars, the gasoline engine recharges the batteries and keeps it charged throughout the trip. Some hybrids recharge the batteries with regenerative braking. This is when energy during deceleration is recaptured and used as a power source to charge the batteries. With plug-in hybrids, the batteries can recharge by using household electricity but still run partially on gasoline. An all-electric vehicle runs only on batteries and uses no gasoline.
How Are Hybrids Different From Gasoline Vehicles?
Traditional, gas-powered vehicles use gasoline as their only fuel source. The battery and alternator are used mostly as a power source for the starter and electrical components. As a result, gas-powered vehicles get lower gas mileage and produce more pollutants than hybrid vehicles. If you do a lot of stop-and-go driving, gas-powered vehicles may do better mileage-wise. But hybrids have better gas mileage overall.
What Types of Hybrid Vehicles Are Available?
Pretty much any type and style of vehicles are available as a hybrid and more types are being released each year. You can buy the typical compact car, or move up to a full-sized SUV. Even pickup trucks are available as hybrids. Some owners of older models complain that hybrids lack power. However, new vehicles with the latest technology have comparable power and acceleration to gasoline-powered vehicles. If you don't plan to drive long distances, then an all-electric vehicle may be a good choice as well.
The good news is that you have a variety of options available when it comes to hybrid vehicles. There is likely one out there that fits your needs in terms of space and handling. A new hybrid may even save you money in fuel costs depending on the way you drive. For more information about hybrid vehicles, or any other type of new vehicle, contact a local dealership.