Hybrid, PHEV, and EV: What's the Difference in Winnipeg?
Hybrid, PHEV, and EV: What's the Difference in Winnipeg?
Posted on June 26, 2024
As the world moves towards reducing its carbon footprint, we are seeing more vehicles using alternative energy sources. However, with different terms like hybrid, plug-in hybrid electric, and fully electric flying around, it can be challenging to understand the differences between these vehicles. In this article, we'll take a closer look at hybrid vehicles, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), and fully electric vehicles (EVs).
Hybrid Vehicles
Hybrid vehicles combine a traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) with an electric motor and battery pack. The ICE is the primary driving force in a hybrid car, and the electric motor kicks in to provide extra propulsion and assist during acceleration.
Hybrid cars come in two main types: series hybrids and parallel hybrids. Series hybrids rely on the electric motor to drive the vehicle, with the ICE only coming into play when the battery runs out of energy. On the other hand, parallel hybrids use both the ICE and electric motor simultaneously to drive the vehicle.
The advantage of hybrid vehicles is that they are more fuel-efficient than traditional ICE cars, as they consume less gasoline. Hybrids are also less polluting and produce fewer emissions than ICE-only vehicles.
Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs)
Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) use the same technology as hybrid vehicles but place a greater emphasis on electric power. PHEVs feature a larger battery pack, which allows the electric motor to operate for an extended range before depleting the battery and switching to gasoline.
As the name suggests, PHEVs can be charged through an external power source, typically an electrical outlet. This allows them to travel longer distances using only electric power before using the gasoline engine to extend their range.
The advantage of PHEVs is that they offer a more extended electric-only range than traditional hybrids. They are also more environmentally friendly than ICE vehicles and have lower operating costs. You can plug in PHEVs overnight in your garage and enjoy the benefits of cheap and clean electric power during the day.
Fully Electric Vehicles (EVs)
Fully electric vehicles (EVs) are the most advanced of the three types of alternative energy vehicles. Unlike hybrids and PHEVs, EVs rely entirely on electric power to propel the vehicle. This means they are entirely emissions-free and more environmentally friendly than traditional ICE vehicles.
EVs also feature larger battery packs than PHEVs, which gives them a more extended electric-only range. This means they can be driven longer before requiring a recharge. Additionally, EVs are cheaper to operate and maintain than ICE vehicles, as electric motors have fewer moving parts and require less regular maintenance.
Reserve Yours Today in Winnipeg
The decision between a hybrid, PHEV, and EV comes down to personal preference, driving habits, and lifestyle. Hybrid vehicles offer better fuel efficiency than traditional ICE cars but still rely on gasoline. On the other hand, PHEVs offer a longer electric-only range and lower running costs than hybrids but also come with a higher price tag.
Fully electric vehicles are entirely emissions-free and offer a more extended electric-only range than PHEVs. But they require charging infrastructure, are more expensive, and have longer charging times than gasoline refuelling. When you're ready to upgrade your vehicle, consider test-driving each type at Crown Auto Group in Winnipeg to determine which is right for you.