Hybrid vs Plug-in Hybrid: What’s the Difference?

However, it’s not as straightforward as opting for the first model you find because there are different types, such as a classic hybrid and a plug-in hybrid. Which one should you choose when it comes down to hybrid vs plug-in hybrid? Here’s our advice.

The differences

As the name suggests, the two vehicles are similar in lots of ways because they use technology that is related. However, there are differences you must be aware of before you sign on the dotted line.

Hybrid cars

Hybrids are famous thanks to the release of the Toyota Prius, the poster boy of the hybrid era. The technology has been around for longer, too, which is why you might have heard of them over plug-in hybrids. Essentially, the key distinction is that a classic hybrid uses an electric motor and a fuel-burning engine to power the vehicle while it’s on the move.

Why? It’s for several reasons, but the main one is that the fuel element of the engine gives hybrid cars more range. This isn’t only because it runs on petrol or diesel, but because the fuel recharges the electric motor when it isn’t in use. Hybrids do this through regenerative braking, where the battery charges up every time you press the brake pedal.

Plug-in hybrid cars

A plug-in hybrid has the same elements, yet it can’t do the same things as a regular hybrid. The reason for this is that the electric power unit in a plug-in model is much larger than in normal hybrids. Therefore, the fuel engine can’t charge it up when it isn’t in use, meaning it must be recharged at a plug-in station like an electric vehicle (EV).

What are the benefits?

Straight away, it’s worth noting that both models enable you to drive using electric power, which is much better for the environment. Hybrids epitomise this as they leverage electricity to reduce drivers’ fuel economy. For example, the electric motor kicks in at slow speeds, such as in traffic or towns and cities, allowing you to get around without using the fuel-burning engine.

However, plug-ins have more electric energy because they need charging directly from an EV charger, which means they can drive longer distances on a single charge. Of course, it takes longer to top up the motor, yet new powerful chargers mean it shouldn’t be longer than twenty-five minutes.

Hybrid vs plug-in hybrid: which is best for you?

The verdict for hybrid vs plug-in hybrid depends on your circumstances. If you require a run-around vehicle for getting around town, a hybrid is perfect as it has a lower range that you can use to complete your entire journey. Plug-in hybrids, on the other hand, use a full electric charge, which means they can go farther for longer and give off very low CO2 emissions.

Whichever you choose, our range of finance options at My Car Credit will ensure that you find the most suitable deal for your needs. With our car finance calculator, you can work out how much your repayments will be to the penny. Plus, finance means you don’t have to save up to land the vehicle of your dreams.

Call us now for more information and to speak to a knowledgeable member of our team!