Hybrid vs. Plug-In Hybrid: What's the Difference?

There are plenty of options for buying a new vehicle, and it doesn’t help when you’re trying to decide between Honda hybrid models and plug-in hybrid vehicles. With new technology comes new questions, so it’s no wonder there’s a lot of buzz trying to figure out how the two compare. Even though hybrid has been around for a while, not everyone knows the difference between hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles. But there’s no need to worry. We’re here to give you all the information you need to know to make the best decision.

So, the question on everyone’s mind: what’s the difference between Honda’s hybrid and plug-in hybrid models? While all new hybrid models are powered by a combination of gasoline engines and electric motors, hybrid and plug-in hybrid models have unique perks. Simply put, conventional hybrid vehicles use gas and electric power simultaneously and rely on their gas engines to keep their medium-sized batteries charged.

For hybrid, it’s a bit different. The hybrid system utilizes a larger battery that’s charged through a 120-volt household outlet or a 240-volt charging unit. Plug-in hybrids start each drive with pure electric power and switch to gas when necessary. Now the real question is: what’s the benefit of each kind of system?

Hybrid vs. Plug-in Hybrid: Benefits of Hybrid Models

Throughout your travels in Brookfield, you’ll find that how the hybrid vehicle works is intuitive because your car’s systems can work in tandem. Meaning, your vehicle will be simultaneously powered by a gas engine and an electric motor. This is good news for your fuel economy, and it also means that using your gas engine, you’re automatically recharging your battery. Just by driving like normal! You can go about your day naturally without worrying about stopping and recharging. This is a significant advantage because your driving habits not only become more efficient, but you won’t have any disruption to your life when you’re out and on the go.

Hybrid vs. Plug-in Hybrid: Benefits of Plug-In Hybrid Models

While there are benefits to the regular hybrid, know there are just as many benefits to the plug-in model. We explained how the systems are different, but how the energy is used is also different. A plug-in hybrid vehicle will primarily run on its battery-powered electric motor during your Bethel travels, but when that battery is drained is when the gas engine comes into play.

Rather than the two power sources working in tandem, plug-in hybrid vehicles treat the gasoline engine as a backup source when the first one runs empty. How far your vehicle can travel solely on the battery is what’s known as the electric range, so once that range is exceeded, you will need to plug your car in to use battery power again.

With that said, there is a range of advantages to opting for a plug-in hybrid vehicle. First and foremost, you can go down the road of being environmentally friendly with this option. Since you can pre-charge your vehicle, many plug-in hybrid cars offer the range you need to run errands around town on pure battery power!

Honda Models and the Future

At the moment, there are a lot of changes happening in the world of hybrid and electric vehicles.

Honda of Danbury is committed to the fight for global environmental issues and carbon neutrality through all of our models. Honda’s electrified lineup includes the Accord hybrid, CR-V Hybrid, and in the near future, the Civic Hybrid. Along with the Honda Prologue SUV, Honda’s first volume battery-electric vehicle will join the lineup in 2024!On top of that, we aim to have battery-electric and fuel-cell electric vehicles represent 100% of sales in the U.S. and globally by 2040. We’re dedicated to making a difference.

Find Your Efficient New Ride With Honda of Danbury

So now that you know the difference between the Honda hybrid and plug-in hybrid models, you have all the necessary tools to make the best upgrade for your future adventures through New Fairfield and Brewster, NY. Consult our expert teams at Honda of Danbury or you can browse our new hybrid models online. No matter if you prefer to go with a traditional hybrid or you want to secure a plug-in hybrid model for your Newtown travels, we have the selection you need. Contact us today to learn more, and be sure to consult with our financiers on your upgrade.

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