Whether you are looking to upgrade your Minnetonka commute with a fuel-efficient vehicle or would like to remove gasoline from the equation altogether, you’ll find some compelling options among the hybrid and electric vehicles available at Motorwerks MINI. This hybrid vs. electric car comparison will provide you with the basics and explain the benefits of both to help you determine which is the better fit with your lifestyle and driving needs. If you’re ready to compare hybrid cars vs. electric cars in person, stop by our dealership in Golden Valley today!
Hybrid Cars vs. Electric Cars: What’s the Difference?
Before we review the respective benefits of hybrid vs. electric, let’s take a look at the some of the key differences between hybrid cars vs. electric cars:
Hybrid Cars
There are basically two types of hybrid cars on the market; standard hybrid vehicles (HEVs) and plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEV). Both feature a powertrain that includes a conventional internal combustion engine paired with an electric motor that work in tandem to significantly boost your fuel-efficiency on the roads in and around St Louis Park. Standard hybrid vehicles (HEVs) self charge via technologies such as regenerative braking, while plug-in hybrid vehicles like the MINI Countryman PHEV need to be plugged into an outside power source to replenish the battery.
Electric Cars
An electric vehicle (EV) is powered solely by an electric motor and battery. The battery in an EV is much larger than the battery in a hybrid or plug-in hybrid and 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 MINI Electric Hardtop can deliver an all-electric driving range of up to 141 miles on a full charge.
Benefits of Hybrid Vehicles
One thing you’re sure to notice when comparing hybrid vs. electric is that driving a hybrid is very much the same as driving a conventional gas-powered vehicle. This familiarity is one of the reasons that many St Louis Park drivers prefer a hybrid car. Other hybrid benefits include:
- With HEVs the battery charges itself
- 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
A hybrid vehicle may be the better option for you if you have a lengthy commute or want the freedom to go on road trips without worrying about range or the availability of charging stations.
Benefits of Electric Vehicles
If you’re ready to do away with your reliance on fossil fuels, an electric vehicle is the answer. Take a look at some of the benefits of electric cars:
- Low or zero tailpipe emissions
- Quieter ride with no engine noise
- No money spent on gas
- Reduced maintenance (no oil changes or engine upkeep)
- Potential EV incentives based on your location
- Flexible charging options, including home and public options
An electric vehicle could be the ideal choice if your daily driving mostly consists of quick trips around the Minneapolis area. In addition, the ever-expanding network of public EV charging stations is making it easier to plan road trip routes.
Compare Hybrid vs. Electric Cars at Motorwerks MINI
The friendly and knowledgeable sales associates at Motorwerks MINI can fill you in on your hybrid vs. electric car options to help you choose the vehicle that is right for you. If you have any questions or would like to schedule a test drive, please contact us online or give us a call at (952) 213-5589. We’re ready to put you behind the wheel of an exciting new MINI Cooper hybrid or electric vehicle, so come see us today!
