If you’re looking to cut down on your gas expenses without fully committing to an electric vehicle, a hybrid car might be the perfect solution. Unlike fully electric vehicles, hybrids don’t require plugging in and can be refueled at any gas station.
A Brief History of Hybrids
Hybrids have been available in the United States since the 2000 model year, when the compact Honda Insight first appeared in showrooms. The Toyota Prius followed closely behind, having been sold in Japan since 1997. Initially, “hybrid” was synonymous with small, fuel-efficient hybrid sedans but recent years have brought many popular models offering a hybrid powertrain. Today, hybrids are commonplace, with many vehicles “hybridized” to improve fuel economy. Some, like the Ford F-150 Hybrid pickup, use their hybrid powertrains to give additional electric power for towing or faster acceleration.
How Hybrids Work
Hybrid vehicles combine a gasoline engine, an electric motor, and a battery pack to save fuel and cut down on tailpipe emissions. “Hybrids are so fuel-efficient because they utilize energy that would otherwise be wasted,” says Jake Fisher, senior director of CR’s Auto Test Center. In fact, their emissions are up to a third lower than comparable nonhybrids, according to CR’s calculations.
The electric motor usually drives the vehicle at lower speeds (typically up to 30 mph, depending on the battery’s charge level) or when power demands are low. At higher speeds, where the gas engine operates more efficiently and generates most of its power, or when you need to accelerate quickly or climb hills, the gas engine kicks in. Hybrids can run on electric power for short distances, but often the engine and motor(s) work together. The gas engine recharges the car’s battery, so there’s no need to plug it in. Additionally, they have regenerative brakes that convert momentum into electricity while slowing down or coasting. This electricity also helps recharge the battery, unlike traditional brakes that just create unusable heat from friction.
By supplementing the engine with an electric motor, the gas engine doesn’t need to be as big. This results in a combined horsepower rating that is comparable to a gas-only car and further boosts efficiency. City fuel economy will be higher (where the electric motor has a greater impact) than on long highway stretches at higher speeds. The opposite holds true for conventional vehicles.
Hybrid Drawbacks? Not Many
Early hybrids could sometimes have a slight shudder when the gas motor activated, and their regenerative braking systems could make it tough to come to a smooth stop. These problems have largely been resolved, and most current hybrids tend to have smoother handling and more power than their gas-only counterparts.
One potential drawback is that hybrids often use an electronic continuously variable transmission (eCVT), which can improve fuel economy but may also produce a monotonous “droning” sound from the gas engine. In addition, drivers may notice a “flaring” sensation when the engine seems to rev up loudly and suddenly, such as on a highway merge or while climbing a hill. The good news is that, despite the additional technology, many hybrids cost approximately the same as their nonhybrid counterparts. Analysis has shown that in many cases the monthly fuel savings offset any rise in monthly payments, saving you money from the start. Also, hybrid batteries in many long-running models have shown to be reliable over several years and hundreds of thousands of miles. Consequently, they tend to rate well in reliability as well.
Hybrids vs. EVs
Fully electric vehicles lack a gasoline engine and require plugging in to recharge their batteries. They often offer driving ranges exceeding 200 miles and can be charged at home or at public charging stations. However, charging an EV takes much longer than refueling a gas car – anywhere from 20 minutes to several hours, depending on the charger’s speed and how many miles you need to add. Moreover, finding a charging station on the road isn’t as convenient as locating a gas station, making hybrids a more practical option for individuals who either lack access to EV charging at home, or prefer the long-trip convenience of a gas-powered engine.
CR’s analysis shows that pure electric vehicles are more efficient than hybrids and often cost less to maintain and repair. They’re also often eligible for tax credits that hybrids can’t get. However, some hybrid models can be cheaper to own and operate compared to similar electric cars. This is particularly true for small SUVs and compact cars, especially for consumers in areas where electricity costs are high. A key reason: Hybrids are often cheaper to purchase.
What About Plug-In Hybrids?
Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) operate like a hybrid but can also be connected to a wall outlet or EV charger. When fully charged, they can run primarily on electric power for roughly 20 to 40 miles (depending on the vehicle) until they switch back to regular hybrid operation.
Unlike regular hybrids, a PHEV might be eligible for federal tax credits. Considering that the average American drives less than 40 miles each day, some drivers might be able to do most of their daily traveling using electric power, provided they charge regularly, using the gas engine only for longer journeys. Nonetheless, due to the added weight associated with their larger batteries, motors, and charging equipment, PHEVs typically have higher purchase costs and deliver lower mileage compared to a conventional hybrid when their electric charge runs out. If you charge your vehicle daily and have a short commute, you will consume very little fuel. In all other situations, your fuel consumption could be higher than in a regular hybrid. A pure EV might be a better option if you can charge easily at home and rarely drive long distances.
Is a Hybrid the Right Choice for You?
In summary, modern hybrids can be priced the same as, or less than, a comparable gas-powered vehicle – or at least save you money over time. Generally, they are reliable, have a high owner satisfaction rating, and many offer a better driving experience as compared to the gas-only versions. Plus, they don’t require plugging in and can be filled up at any gas station.
