What Is a Hybrid Car?

Go back to the mid-1990s, and you’ll find one of the first fuel-efficient hybrid cars. Fast forward more than 25 years, and most automakers have hybrid vehicles, including sports cars and SUVs. When you’re looking for a great vehicle that saves you on gas money for Wakefield and Medford drives, we encourage you to take a look at a new MAZDA CX-90 Hybrid (a plug-in hybrid, or PHEV).

But what exactly is the definition of a hybrid car? Having a hybrid car means engineers tied together an electric motor with a gasoline engine. Using the hybrid car definition, both the electric motor and gasoline engines work together to provide the best fuel economy possible. The electric motor runs at lower speeds, while the gasoline engine would run on the highway.

Hybrid cars are great for Stoneham and Melrose commutes without constantly stopping at the pump. If you’re looking for a great everyday vehicle, a hybrid car might be for you. Our team will answer “What is a hybrid car?” We’ll also go over the different types of hybrid powertrains put out by modern manufacturers. 

Types of Hybrid Cars

Before choosing a hybrid vehicle for your Saugas drive, learn about the different types of hybrid vehicles. 

Let’s take a look at the different hybrid powertrains available to car buyers:

Parallel Hybrid

A parallel hybrid is the most common hybrid vehicle you’ll see. The similar hybrid car definition indicates the electric motor and gasoline engine are connected to the same automatic, manual, or CVT transmission. Parallel hybrids blend their two power sources. They switch back and forth between both powertrains automatically.

Series Hybrid

Series hybrid vehicles also have electric motors paired with a gasoline engine. The difference is the electric motors are directly paired with the transmission. It’s the sole power source of the vehicle while it’s running. The gasoline engine in a series hybrid vehicle simply acts as a generator for the electric motors. Its only job is to provide power to the gasoline engine.

Plug-In Hybrid

A plug-in hybrid (PHEV) is similar to a parallel hybrid in that both the electric motor and gasoline engine are connected to the transmission. However, what makes plug-in hybrids unique is that they have bigger batteries that can take you up to 50 miles on electricity alone. If you regularly drive short distances, like on your daily commute, you can drive on pure electric power, come home, and plug the hybrid vehicle into your garage. They typically charge quickly overnight in your garage in a few hours.

Pros and Cons of Hybrid Cars

Hybrids have plenty of pros, but also a few cons. Let’s breakdown a few of each, so that hopefully you’re in a better position to decide if a Hybrid vehicle is right for your Medford drives.

Pros of Hybrid Cars

So, what makes hybrid cars ideal for your family? Learn more about their perks. 

• Energy Efficiency: Hybrid vehicles utilize both electricity and internal combustion to maximize fuel economy. Systems like regenerative braking recapture energy typically lost during braking. This results in less fuel consumption, fewer emissions, and less money spent on gas.
• Ownership Costs: You find hybrid cars in a wide range of price points and configurations based on what fits your lifestyle. Many states and the federal government offer tax incentives to sweeten your purchase. Plus, every hybrid vehicle includes a battery warranty to protect your investment in the long run. The warranty depends on the model you purchase.
• Diverse Variety: Hybrid cars were smaller and had lower power output. But modern technology and engineering have progressed. You can find high-performance hybrids, high-powered SUVs, and any other configuration for daily commutes, weekly errands, and weekend getaways to the Catskills or your lake hideaway in New Hampshire.

Potential Cons of Hybrid Cars

Before buying a hybrid car, consider the drawbacks.

• Price: Hybrid cars typically cost more than similar-sized gas-powered vehicles. Of course, you can make up for the cost of fuel savings and possible incentives. You can expect a higher sales or lease price.
• Maintenance Costs for the Battery: Hybrid cars often require less maintenance than internal combustion cars. Hybrid car maintenance costs can be higher due to the battery’s limited lifespan. It can cost around $2,000 or more, depending on the model you have.
• Hybrid Emissions: Hybrid vehicles are more eco-friendly than gas-powered cars. However, they aren’t zero-emission vehicles like EVs. If you want the lowest carbon footprint, an EV is a way to go. 

Mazda Hybrid Models

Look at the hybrid models currently available from Mazda. We’ve already talked about the MAZDA CX-90 Hybrid. There’s also the MAZDA CX-50, a model that comes in a hybrid format for some trims. Both are SUVs, giving you and your family easy and convenient drives, no matter where you go. They are packed with high-tech safety features and connectivity that modern families want in their vehicles.

Test Drive a New Mazda Hybrid Today!

Contact us or call 978-910-0361 to schedule a test drive with us. We’re happy to help in any way we can! While we have you apply for financing if you’re ready to make a purchase.