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Are you looking for a hybrid or electric car but not sure where to start? Then this guide is for you! There is so much choice on the market now for hybrids and electric with different options such a mild hybrid to plug-in hybrid, it makes it hard to know what each one is and what one suits your lifestyle best.
MILD HYBRID
A mild hybrid (also known as an MHEV) offers a small amount of electrical assistance to the engine (not enough that the car runs on electric power alone). It helps reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions of petrol and diesel-engined cars. You may notice that more and more petrol/diesel models come with Mild Hybrid technology as standard.
A mild hybrid might be the best option for you if:- You are looking for a cheaper alternative to other hybrids/electric
- Prefer a car where you don't need to plug it in but still want to reduce your CO2 emissions and fuel consumption
- Would prefer to stick to a more traditional driving experience as they can also work with manual gearboxes.
SELF-CHARGE HYBRID
A self-charge Hybrid (also known as a HEV) is another name for a normal hybrid car. A self-charging hybrid car can drive itself using electric power alone, but can't be plugged in to charge. The battery recharges by combining the engine and through recovering energy which would otherwise be lost such as slowing down.
A self-charge hybrid might be the best option if:
- You have nowhere to plug-in a vehicle but you still want the benefits of a hybrid
- You don't mind that self-charging hybrids have a smaller battery so you won't be able to go as far on electric-only power.
PLUG-IN HYBRID
A plug-in hybrid (also know as a PHEV) is a hybrid that you can charge by plugging in. It has a bigger battery than a self-charge allowing you to travel further on electric-only power.
A plug-in hybrid might be the best option for you if:
- You need flexibility and are not ready to commit to full electric. You'll be able to get around 30 miles (depending on the model) of electric-only driving but also have a traditional petrol engine for backup.
- You may also consider a plug-in hybrid if you have access to a charger or can charge it up at home.
ELECTRIC
A full electric vehicle (also known as a EV or BEV) uses only energy stored in batteries as aposed to petrol or diesel.
A full electric car might be the best option for you if:
- You have access to a charger or can charge at home
- You want to be completely emission-free when driving.
OUR TATES HYBRID/ELECTRIC BUYING GUIDE
If you are thinking about changing your car to hybrid or electric and want to learn more, please feel free to contact your local Tates dealership where a member of our team will be more than happy to assist you.
