Learn the Difference Between Your Electric Vehicle Options

Electric vs Hybrid vs Fuel Cell

If you’re considering a fuel-efficient electric vehicle, it’s important to keep in mind that a fully electric model isn’t your only option. Fully electric vehicles are great, but they may not be for everyone. That’s why it’s good to learn the difference between some battery-powered vehicles, such as electric vs hybrid vs fuel cell.

Let’s explain fuel cell vehicles right away. Fuel cell vehicles aren’t all that common here in the United States, and though you may find some options out there, they haven’t taken off the way fully electric and hybrid vehicles have. That said, fuel cell models are a form of electric vehicle you can buy. They consist of an electric battery and hydrogen fuel, requiring you to fill up at fuel cell stations.

Differences Between Hybrid and Electric

Hybrid models are similar, in a way. A hybrid vehicle will utilize a fuel tank and an electric battery. The difference, however, is that the fuel tank consists of gasoline instead of hydrogen. With a gasoline engine and electric battery combined, however, you will notice a significant increase in fuel efficiency.

A form of hybrid model is plug-in hybrid. These operate in very much the same way, with the key difference being that a plug-in hybrid allows you to operate in a fully electric mode if you wish to. You won’t be able to travel long distances in fully electric mode, but the option is there. When necessary, you can plug in your vehicle at home or at a charging station to charge up the electric battery.

A fully electric vehicle uses no fuel whatsoever. It is powered only by the electric battery, and instead of regular fuel fill-ups, it requires regular charges. It can be charged at home or at a charging station. Unlike a plug-in hybrid that usually can only travel a short distance in fully electric mode, a completely electric vehicle can travel hundreds of miles before requiring a charge.

[Read more: Why You Want a Home Charging Station for Your EV]

From cars to SUVs, we offer a wide range of electric, hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicle options here at Rairdon’s Hyundai of Bellingham. Learn more by calling us or stopping by.