Hybrid vs. Electric Cars: Which is Better?

If you’re ready to upgrade your Atlanta commute with a fuel-efficient hybrid or all-electric vehicle, you’ll find some compelling options among the new hybrid and electric vehicles for sale at BMW of Gwinnett Place. So, hybrid cars vs. electric cars: which is the better choice for you? In this hybrid vs. electric car comparison you’ll be able to review the differences between the two and explore the benefits of both to determine which is the best fit with your lifestyle and driving needs. Then, you can stop by our showroom in Duluth to compare your hybrid vs. electric car options in person today!

What’s the Difference Between Hybrid Cars vs. Electric Cars?

To start, let’s take a look at the some of the key differences between hybrid cars vs. electric cars: 

Hybrid Cars

The two basic types of hybrid cars on the market are standard hybrid vehicles (HEVs) and plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEV). Both feature a powertrain that includes a conventional gas-powered internal combustion engine paired with an electric motor. These work together to significantly boost your fuel-efficiency on the roads in and around Lawrenceville. Standard hybrid vehicles (HEVs) self charge via technologies such as regenerative braking, while plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs) like the BMW 530e Sedan need to be plugged into an outside power source to replenish the battery.

Electric Cars

Electric vehicles (EVs) are powered solely by an electric motor and a battery that is much larger than the battery in a hybrid or plug-in hybrid. The battery in an EV can be recharged by plugging it in at home or at a public charging station. The mileage range in an electric vehicle will vary depending on the battery capacity. Models like the BMW i7 Executive Sedan can deliver an all-electric driving range of up to 321 miles on a full charge.

Benefits of Hybrid Vehicles

Owning and driving a hybrid car is very similar to owning and driving a conventional gas-powered vehicle, which is one of the main reasons why they are so appealing to Lawrenceville-area drivers. Here are some of the other benefits you can look forward to with a hybrid or plug-in hybrid vehicle:

• HEVs recharge the battery as you drive
• PHEVs allow you to drive solely on electric power for short distances, while the gas engine can take over when the electric power is depleted
• You can stop and fuel up at any gas station
• Hybrids are often more affordable than EVs

For those who have a lengthy commute or who don’t want to worry about the availability of charging stations when planning an extended road trip, a hybrid vehicle may be the better option.

Benefits of Electric Vehicles

With an electric vehicle you can eliminate your reliance on fossil fuels altogether. In addition, you’ll enjoy EV benefits such as:

• Low or zero tailpipe emissions
• Quieter ride with no engine noise
• No money spent on gas 
• Reduced maintenance (no oil changes or engine upkeep)
• Flexible charging options, including home and public options
• Potential EV incentives based on your location 

If your daily driving mostly consists primarily of quick trips around the Suwanee area an EV could be the perfect choice. If you decide to take a road trip, the ever-expanding network of public EV charging stations makes it easy to plan your route. When you opt for an all-electric BMW like the BMW iX, you’ll benefit from Electrify America which offers an open network of DC Fast Charging stations along major highways from coast to coast where you can fully charge your EV in 30 minutes. Contact us for more information on the BMW Electrify America promotion.

Compare Hybrid vs. Electric Cars at BMW of Gwinnett Place

The team at BMW of Gwinnett Place is standing by to fill you in on your hybrid vs. electric car options and answer all of your questions regarding EV and hybrid maintenance, EV charging times, and more. Give us a call at (470) 200-2865 to arrange your visit to our Duluth dealership. If you’re ready to get behind the wheel of a new BMW hybrid or electric car, schedule a test drive with us online today!