Is it time for you to juice up your drive? There are more diverse hybrid models coming to market, so it’s easier to choose an electric vehicle if your lifestyle requires something other than a small sedan or coupé, such as the Chevy Volt, Nissan Leaf or Tesla Model S.
The Audi A3 e-tron sport wagon, Volvo XC90 crossover SUV, Mercedes S550E large sedan and Chrysler Pacifica minivan offer options to carry more people and stuff in style. Thinking about an electric vehicle? There are three main types to consider:
Hybrid:
A hybrid uses a gas engine coupled with electric motors and a battery pack. The battery is recharged during driving, such as capturing energy from braking or while the gas engine idles. The Toyota Prius is still one of the top sellers of this type of hybrid.
Plug-In Hybrid:
This type also allows the driver to plug the car into charge the battery at a public terminal or home power station. Given careful driving habits and a commute that fits the car’s electric-only range, drivers can cover hundreds of miles without using the gas engine. This option seems to give drivers the best of both worlds and can reduce range anxiety. Upmarket brands like Audi, VW, Porsche, BMW and Mercedes have joined Hyundai, Ford, GM, Chrysler and Toyota in offering models in this segment.
Battery:
This type does not contain a gas engine at all, instead relying on energy recapture and charging stations. The Teslas were among the first of this type, now there are many more on the market, including options from BWM, GM and Ford.
You’ll pay a premium for a hybrid or electric car compared to a traditional car of a similar size. The return on investment has a lot to do with the price of gas. .
If you’re in the market for a new car, check out the range of hybrid and electric vehicles on the market today. You may find one that fits your needs and helps reduce your impact on the environment.
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