Hybrid vs. Electric Cars

If you find it’s time to trade in your traditional gas-powered vehicle and you’re searching for a hybrid or electric model, which option will better fit your Corona lifestyle and driving needs? BMW of Murrieta compares the basics and benefits of hybrid vs. electric below so you can make an educated decision! 

The Basics of Hybrid Cars vs. Electric Cars

Following below, we will assess the respective benefits of hybrid vs. electric cars. Initially, however, we want to establish a base understanding of the core differences between the standard hybrid cars vs. electric cars. 

Hybrid Vehicles

So, hybrid vehicles are gas-powered, but unlike the traditional gas-powered vehicle, you’ll find that hybrids are not fully reliant on their gas engine to generate power. Accompanying the gas engine in your hybrid vehicle is the secondary electric motor. The gas engine and electric motor work in tandem to provide power as you drive through Riverside and Ontario. The coworking allows for significant improvements in gas mileage. The battery for the electric motor in traditional hybrid vehicles self-charges through regenerative braking. You will never have to plug in to charge because the energy from the braking charges the battery.

Electric Vehicles

When you get an electric vehicle (EV), you will find that it runs solely on electric power. Electric vehicles only have a battery and electric motor, and the battery in EVs is much larger than in hybrids. The battery plays an incredibly significant role in providing power for the vehicle to run, and they are getting better and better over time. Electric vehicles can be plugged into a home or public charging station, and your home can be equipped with a speed charging station. The mileage range of your vehicle depends on how much charge you have and the model of your electric vehicle. 

Hybrid vs. Electric Car: Benefits of Hybrid Vehicles

Hybrid cars can be a great option for Ontario drivers who aren’t quite ready to make the switch to completely electric. You can still get serious fuel savings without having to adapt your lifestyle and change your driving habits. Other benefits of hybrid vehicles include:

• The battery is self-charging
• You can get fuel at any gas station
• Hybrids vehicles are often more affordable than electric vehicles

Ultimately, if you have a long daily commute or you want to maintain your freedom for long distance travels without worrying about running out of power, a hybrid vehicle is probably the best option for you! You can still get gas at any gas station on your route, just like you’re accustomed to with a traditional gas engine. 

Hybrid Cars vs. Electric Cars: Benefits of Electric Vehicles

Electric vehicles eliminate the use of gas and the gas engine. This leads to significant long-term savings. Not only are they easy on your wallet, but they are better for the environment. If you want to increase your efficiency, decrease your footprint, and save money on gas in the long term, then an electric vehicle may just be your next daily driver. Benefits include:

• Fewer maintenance costs
• Potential of incentives to lower the cost of EV ownership, based on your location
• Flexible charging options, including home and public options
• Low or zero tailpipe emissions
• Quieter ride with no engine noise
• No money spent on gas 

If you more often than not take quick trips around the Murrieta area, you may want to consider an electric vehicle! Vehicles like the BMW iX offer a total electric range of 250+ miles on a single full charge. Longer trips are not out of the question with some planning ahead of time. The number of public charging stations has been increasing, so it’s becoming easier and easier to plan a road trip with an EV. 

Compare Hybrid vs. Electric at BMW of Murrieta

Hopefully this has helped you determine whether a conventional hybrid or electric vehicle is the better option for you. BMW of Murrieta can help make the transition easy with straightforward trade-ins and financing. Contact us if you want more information on hybrid and EV options, or plug-in hybrid options, at our dealership in Murrieta or explore our new inventory to get started at home!