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First, consumers were introduced to hybrid cars and then electric vehicles (EVs). Today, both are more common on the road, with more models debuting each year. According to Edmunds, by May 2024, 6.8% of light-duty vehicle sales (what most of us drive) in the U.S. were electric, and the other 1.7% sold were plug-in electric hybrids.
With all the different makes, models and features available, some consumers find it challenging to understand the differences between hybrids and EVs. Which one is best?
The answer depends on your needs and driving habits. EVs and hybrid cars offer similar benefits, such as more efficient mileage and lower emissions than gas-only vehicles, but important distinctions exist. Here’s a rundown of the differences between electric and hybrid cars so you can decide which is best for you.
A hybrid car (there are also hybrid SUVs, trucks, vans and more) pairs an electric motor with a gasoline engine. Electricity is powered by a small, high-voltage battery pack, which is separate from the vehicle’s conventional 12-volt battery.
Standard hybrid cars are driven similarly to regular vehicles and don’t need to be plugged in because electrical energy is replenished through the process of regenerative braking.
PHEVs are another type of hybrid vehicle. Like standard hybrids, they have a traction battery pack that can be recharged by braking, but they can also be plugged into an external power source to replenish electrical stores.
With a PHEV, the gasoline engine will seamlessly switch on once the electric charge has run out, making this vehicle a popular middle-ground option for drivers looking for electric capabilities without being limited to the mileage range of an electric charge. As of September 2021, PHEVs in the U.S. provided an EPA range (distance you can go electric-only via combined city and highway driving before needing to recharge) of 14 to 65 miles.
EVs run on a powerful battery that allows them to operate for approximately 100 to 400 miles before needing to be recharged. As with gasoline-only cars, power efficiency depends on factors including model, year, driving conditions and driver. Here’s a list of EVs with the longest ranges in 2024.
EVs have a quick and quiet acceleration and are known for good handling on the road. At the end of your day, you can plug in your EV at home (some garage outlets may need to be adapted) and charge it overnight for the next day’s driving.
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Start drivingThere are many things to consider when switching from a gasoline-only car to a hybrid or electric vehicle. Here’s a look at four of the top considerations.
Hybrid cars will require many of the maintenance steps that their gasoline-only counterparts do, such as oil changes, transmission checks, fluid changes, belt replacement, etc. By contrast, electric cars tend to be a lower-maintenance option, but they still require care, including some fluid changes, tire changes, and brake maintenance.
For some people, the choice between an EV and a hybrid may come down to the availability of a preferred make or model. But if you’re open to both vehicle types, consider this: If you need a daily commuter car, an electric vehicle is often the best choice because it can be plugged in at home, possibly at work (if your workplace has a charging station) or at a public charging station.
There are now nearly 5,700 public-access EV charging stations in the U.S. and more than 300 in Canada. (This information is available through the AAA Mobile app.)
However, if you plan to travel often or for long distances, select a hybrid that can efficiently use both electric and gas power to get you to your destination.
Fuel savings, environmental concerns and cost are three considerations for consumers looking at alternative-fuel vehicles. And with more brands jumping into the fray, deciding between an EV or hybrid often comes down to lifestyle and personal preference.
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1Cash back can be redeemed in the form of a statement credit or ACH deposit ($25 cash back minimum redemption). Cash back is not earned on business related transactions or activities. You may not redeem cash back, and you will immediately lose all of your cash back, if your account is closed to future transactions (including, but not limited to, due to Program misuse, failure to pay, bankruptcy, or death). Cash back will expire at 11:00 p.m. Central Time on the last day of the calendar quarter that is five (5) years from the date on which they are earned. Account must be open and in good standing to earn and redeem rewards and benefits. Upon approval, please refer to your Cardmember Agreement for additional information. Cash back is earned on eligible net purchases. Net purchases are purchases minus credits and returns. Not all transactions are eligible to earn cash back, such as Advances, Balance Transfers, and Convenience Checks and other advance transactions as defined in the Cardmember Agreement, as well as interest charges and fees do not qualify. U.S. Bank cannot control how merchants classify their business or transactions and reserves the right to determine which Purchases will qualify in which category. Earn 2% per dollar for qualifying net purchases made with the card through any participating AAA Club when AAA is the merchant of record, on qualifying net insurance purchases (MCC = 6300) and at eligible retail travel merchants. AAA Clubs located in Northern California, Nevada and Utah are not participating AAA Clubs and purchases made at those clubs will not qualify for 2%. Earn 4% per dollar for qualifying net purchases on AAA purchases, travel and insurance for your first 6 months up to $6,000. After that, earn cash back in the standard 2% category. Foreign Transaction Fee: None.
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*Annual Percentage Yield (APY) is valid as of 11/26/2024. Personal accounts only. Rates are variable and may change without prior notice. $100 minimum balance to open and avoid fees. Fees may reduce earnings. $250,000 maximum opening deposit when account is opened online. After online opening deposit is verified, you may deposit additional funds to your account. $500,000 maximum balance. Auto Club Trust, FSB.
**Annual Percentage Yield (APY) is accurate as of 11/26/2024. Rates are variable and may change without prior notice. Interest rates are fixed until initial maturity after the account is opened. A $1,500 minimum deposit to open the account and obtain the APY is required. A penalty may be imposed for early withdrawal. Fees may reduce earnings. Personal accounts only.
†Annual Percentage Rate (APR). Rates and terms effective as of 10/11/2024. APR is accurate as of 10/11/2024. Advertised rates and terms are subject to change without prior notice. Additional terms and restrictions may apply. Other loan rates available. Subject to borrower qualification. Advertised rate includes a 0.25% discount when you set up automatic payments from any checking or savings account. Rate is variable. Offer valid on personal vehicle loans only. Criteria to receive the stated APR: Loan term 48 months or less new or used, model year 2018 – 2024 with a credit score of 720 or higher based on the Vantage scoring model. Buyer is responsible for all state or local fees. Auto Club Trust, FSB uses a managed credit program and final APR is dependent on your credit score. An auto loan with an APR of 5.49% for a $20,000 loan at a term of 48 months, your estimated monthly payment would be $465. An auto loan with an APR of 5.74% for a $20,000 loan at a term of 48 months, your estimated payment would be $467. Private party sales will not be financed.
††Terms and Conditions apply. Offer valid for loans on vehicles purchased through the AAA Auto Buying Program from a TrueCar, Inc. (TrueCar) Certified Dealer; and approved and funded by Auto Club Trust, FSB. Applicant must submit the Member Price Summary provided by TrueCar during the application process. Must be an active AAA member to receive the additional TrueCar discounted rate. Loans offered by Auto Club Trust, FSB. Equal Opportunity Lender.
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