From reducing CO2 emissions to making use of tax incentives, electric and hybrid cars can present many benefits. Although they’re both alternatives to conventional petrol and diesel engines, there are some key differences between them which are important to consider before going ‘green’.

Let’s have a look at each type in more detail… 

 

Electric cars 

- What is an EV? 

Electric cars are powered entirely by electricity, so they produce no exhaust emissions. They need to be charged to keep moving, with a full charge lasting around 100-150 miles depending on the model. Electric charging points are popping up all the time at supermarkets and car parks in the UK, and you can even get one installed at your home. 

 

- What are the benefits of an EV? 

As EVs produce zero emissions, they are much more environmentally friendly than conventional petrol or diesel cars. They’re also cheaper to run, and you’ll pay less tax to keep them on the road. 

EVs are quiet, smooth and relaxing to drive. Because they’re all automatic, they’re perfect for driving in slow moving traffic jams. 

 

Hybrid cars

- What is a hybrid car? 

Hybrid cars differ from electric cars in that they combine electric power with a petrol or diesel engine. They’re not as environmentally friendly as full EVs, but they generally consume less fuel than petrol or diesel cars and produce less CO2. There are three different types: full hybrids, mild hybrids, and plug-in hybrids.

Full hybrids (also known as self-charging hybrids) are the most common, and they’re powered by a conventional engine with an electric battery. You never need to charge these hybrids, as the battery is charged as you go thanks to regenerative braking. This is the process of recycling energy through the braking system, meaning a self-charging hybrid can use power which would otherwise be lost. 

Mild hybrids (MHEVs) on the other hand, have smaller batteries than full hybrids, and the electric motor works by providing a little boost for the engine under acceleration. Lastly, plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) have the largest batteries of all, meaning you can go further on electric-only power. As the name suggests, the battery of a PHEV can be filled by plugging it into an electric socket or charging point. Depending on your circumstances, a PHEV could mean you’ll rarely need to visit the petrol station, saving you money in the long run. 

 

- What are the benefits of a hybrid car?

As a hybrid car doesn’t run on electric power alone, there aren't the same range limitations as with full EVs. You can refuel as usual at any petrol station rather than having to find a charging point. They do however emit more CO2 and use more fossil fuels, and the tax incentives aren’t quite as tempting as they are with electric vehicles. 

 

Which should I choose? 

If you’re looking to minimise your carbon footprint as much as possible and are ready to take the leap to go fully electric, then an EV is the best option for you. There is a range of incentives when it comes to tax, making the switch to electric all the more beneficial. 

But if electric mileage limitations are a concern for you, for instance if you have a long commute everyday, a hybrid car could be a good middle ground and a step in the right direction.

At Motor Range, we offer a superb range of electric and hybrid cars from small city hatchbacks to larger family models. Start browsing online or at our showroom, and get in touch to book a test drive!