Here you’ll find some of the most important things to consider when shopping for a hybrid vehicle.
There are two main types of hybrid vehicle: hybrids (sometimes called conventional hybrids) and plug-in hybrids.
Conventional hybrid vehicles require gas to operate - the battery is charged by the internal combustion engine (ICE), and by regenerative braking, which uses the vehicle’s forward motion to conserve energy. Full hybrids, the most commonly known to consumers, typically run using an electric motor at lower speeds and also use the onboard battery to power the vehicle’s secondary functions.
Plug-in hybrids are equipped with larger batteries and an electric motor capable of propelling the vehicle at high speeds. Their batteries are charged by the ICE, regenerative braking, or by plugging the vehicle into an external power source, like an electric vehicle charger or wall outlet. Some plug-in hybrids, like the Toyota Prius Prime, can run solely on electric power for up to 40 km of range! That allows many users to use only electric power for in-town driving, relying on the conventional engine only for long trips.
Another aspect to consider when shopping for hybrid cars is the ICE powertrain you want with your vehicle. Some hybrids are quieter vehicles with moderate speed or power - however, many still come with V6 and V8 engines to offer higher performance than more reserved models. Hybrids can also be front, back, or all-wheel drive, so you can drive a hybrid SUV without compromising on functionality.
When it comes to maintenance, hybrids often incur remarkably fewer costs than traditional, gas-powered vehicles. Regenerative braking means less wear and tear on your conventional brakes, while efficient, reliable electric motors require little upkeep and reduce wear on the ICE. Hybrids are also reliable in cold climates - your electric system will turn on even in the chilliest Ontario conditions. Our service team has been working with hybrids for many years, and will help keep your vehicle in great shape for years to come.
Contact us for more about hybrid cars today!
To learn more about the hybrid cars we have in our inventory, contact our team from 1000 Islands Toyota today. You can contact us online to find out more about our new and used vehicles or call (613) 342-9111.
