Hybrid vs. Plug-in Hybrid Vehicles

Are you comparing hybrids vs. plug-in hybrids while shopping for a new vehicle? Although the two designs are certainly similar, there are important differences between hybrids and plug-in hybrids that you’ll want to keep in mind! Here’s what every Philadelphia shopper should know right off the bat:

• Hybrids use gas and electric power simultaneously. As long as you fill up with gas, your alternator will charge the vehicle’s battery and allow you to travel more efficiently—especially in the city.
• Plug-in hybrids utilize electric power whenever possible, and switch to gas power only in certain circumstances. They need to be charged overnight, or at public charging stations in Sewell and Williamstown.

Now, let’s dig a little deeper to help you decide which kind of hybrid is the best fit for your needs!

Differences Between Hybrids and Plug-In Hybrids

The main difference between hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles is that plug-in hybrid vehicles can drive on electric power alone. After this all-electric range has expired, plug-in hybrids start to drive a lot like normal hybrid cars.

• Should you choose a plug-in hybrid? You might want to ask yourself if you’d like to complete your commute using nothing but electric power! If you charge up overnight, you can keep a full tank of gas in your vehicle but use almost none of it during your day-to-day.
• Should you choose a standard hybrid? These models tend to be more affordable than their plug-in hybrid counterparts, and since you don’t need to worry about plugging in to charge, you might find that they’re a little bit easier to own!
• It’s important to note that BMW offers several plug-in hybrids, but no standard hybrid models. Additionally, the lineup of BMW EVs is expanding in the near future.

Plug-in hybrid vehicles generally require a little bit more work to own and maintain, since you’ll need to install a home wallbox and start getting familiar with local charging stations. On the other hand, plug-in hybrids give you the ability to drastically lower your gas consumption when prices are running high in Turnersville.

Hybrid models drive more or less just like their gas-powered counterparts, which means that they offer less flexibility; you’ll always use gas and electric power together when you’re behind the wheel of a hybrid. However, for some drivers, the ability to enjoy greater efficiency without changing their habits might be an important benefit in its own right!

Hybrids vs. Plug-In Hybrids vs. EVs

There are hybrids and there are plug-in hybrids—and then there are fully-electric vehicles like the new BMW i4 and the new BMW iX! Fully electric models need to be charged up overnight or in public, just like their plug-in hybrid counterparts. However, they don’t have gasoline-powered engines that can take over in a pinch! This means that an EV can help you break free from gasoline consumption entirely, but it also means that EVs require a little bit more care and planning on the part of their owner.

Since EVs don’t have to use any non-renewable resources, they have the potential to be much better for the environment. However, cost benefits will vary depending on the relative prices of gasoline and electric power.

Find Your Efficient New Ride With BMW of Turnersville

Whether you’re leaning toward a hybrid, a plug-in hybrid, or an EV, our team would love to help you take the next steps! Contact us with any questions you have about the ins and outs of owning a PHEV or an EV, and let us put your doubts to rest today. You can even pre-order an i4 or an iX from the comfort of your home!