It used to be power locks and windows, then came seat warmers, and more recently, cars that come equipped with hands-free controls and increased safety features. But perhaps the biggest change we’ve ever seen is the introduction of hybrid cars, electric vehicles, and hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles.
With an increased focus on fuel efficiency and the environment, hybrid cars couldn’t have arrived at a better time. While the popularity of hybrid cars is increasing across the auto industry, at 1000 Islands Toyota, we’re proud that Toyota has sold over 13 million electrified vehicles since 1997. In this article, we’ll touch on some of our favorite Toyota hybrid cars and the benefits they offer. First, we want to start by highlighting the environmental benefits of all hybrid cars and electric vehicles.
As the effects of climate change continue to be felt and more people become environmentally aware, hybrid and electrical vehicles are becoming more and more popular. From fuel production to daily emissions from driving, there are many aspects of fuel-run cars that can add to pollutants.
For many cities around the world, pollution and vehicle emissions-related deaths are a stark reality. For this reason, options like hybrid, battery electric and fuel cell electric vehicles are becoming more popular not only in North America but around the world.
All vehicles produce some level of pollution during three stages of life: the manufacturing process, daily use of the vehicle, and at the vehicle’s end of life. While production of certain types of electric and hybrid vehicles can produce more pollution than their internal combustion engine counterparts, they are much more efficient during daily use. For most users, this means any environmental effects associated with manufacture are more than balanced out over the life of an electrified vehicle. Additionally, certain components of hybrid and electric vehicles (like the battery) can be re-purposed or recycled at the vehicle’s end of life, further decreasing their net environmental footprint.
There are a few types of electric vehicles you can choose from…
These are often the vehicles that people refer to when they say “electric car.” BEVs come with a rechargeable power source (battery) and can be charged with a specific type of charger. Chargers are categorized by charging speed and include Level 1, Level 2, and DC Fast Chargers. BEVs also return energy to the battery whenever the vehicle slows down using an onboard regenerative braking system.
Sometimes referred to as Extended Range Electric Vehicles, these vehicles operate using two different sources of fuel - electricity and gas. Like the aforementioned BEVs, PHEVs can be charged by plugging into a designated power source, and also feature regenerative braking capability.
In addition to the onboard battery and electric motor, PHEVs also utilize an internal combustion engine powered by gas. The electric motor and battery mean fewer trips to the gas station are needed, particularly if the battery is kept charged. It is even possible to utilize all-electric power for most daily driving, particularly for shorter trips. Likewise, a PHEV user may choose not to charge the battery, in which case the vehicle operates like a traditional hybrid vehicle, requiring gas.
PHEVs can save up to roughly 60% on fuel use and are less reliant on traditional fuels. Toyota’s PHEV models include the Prius Prime and upcoming RAV4 Prime.
HEVs come with both batteries and an internal combustion engine (ICE) that functions on fuel. These vehicles cannot be plugged in and charged: they solely rely on regenerative braking and the operation of the internal combustion engine to return energy to the battery. There are two HEV options: full and mild hybrids.
Mild hybrids need the internal combustion engine to move. Full hybrids come equipped with a larger battery, as well as an electric motor that can propel the car – normally for shorter distances, and at lower speeds.
HEVs are also categorized by how the electric motor and the ICE function together. Parallel hybrids, as the name would indicate, have both the electric motor and the ICE connected, and can function at the same time. The other category, called series hybrid, can function completely off the electric motor.
Toyota offers a variety of great HEV models like the Corolla Hybrid, Camry Hybrid, RAV4 Hybrid, and more.
This is a newer technology that uses hydrogen as the source of energy to power an onboard electric motor, and only emits water as a by-product. An example of this amazing technology can be found in the Toyota Mirai. With zero emissions and a 5-minute hydrogen fueling time, this Toyota represents the pinnacle of automotive ingenuity.
Since hybrid cars and electric vehicles need little or no fuel to operate, the cost savings that they offer are extremely attractive. While hybrid cars may cost slightly more when compared to an ICE model, the long-term savings you get from fuel efficiency are what make them such a great deal.
When compared to traditional gas vehicles, hybrid cars can average up to 25 km per litre and offer up to 30% improved fuel efficiency. So, if you're looking for some great savings on fuel, a hybrid car can go that extra mile while saving you money.
1000 Islands Toyota
Our team in Brockville has been providing exceptional service since 1980. Our dealership has a variety of new and used vehicles, including the latest Toyota hybrid cars. Our exceptional financing and leasing options and our certified used options mean there is a Toyota waiting for you.
To learn more about our hybrid cars and other Toyota models, please contact our team today!
