Hybrid vehicles are becoming more popular today for drivers in the Rochester Area. Getting outstanding fuel efficiency is always appealing. Finding the right hybrid can be difficult because there is more than one hybrid type. Many drivers aren’t aware of the different types. We at Auto Outlets USA are excited to show you and tell you the difference between a PHEV and a traditional hybrid.

Hybrid Vehicles

Hybrid vehicles are run by a diesel or petrol engine along with an electric motor. They can run using the gas engine, just the electric motor, or using both at the same time. The vehicle’s computer determines which engine should be used based on your driving. An onboard chargeable battery powers the electric motor.

The battery can be charged by electricity generated while braking or coasting or can be charged by the engine when the vehicle is moving. These type of hybrids are known as self-charging hybrids.

PHEV Cars

PHEV (plug-in hybrid vehicles) are just what their name implies. They are similar to a regular hybrid in that they also have an electric motor and extra battery to help the gasoline or diesel engine. The main difference between the two is the PHEV vehicles have a must larger battery, which allows drivers to drive around 15 to 25 miles on just the electric motor alone, which might take you up 15 to 25 miles depending on the vehicle.

While it can be recharged by the vehicle as it’s driven, drivers will have to plug it into an outlet to fully recharge the battery. With a PHEV, you can drive much further on a charged battery. If the PHEV doesn’t travel far and is kept plugged in each day, the driver may never need to buy gasoline.