Hybrid vs. Plug-in Hybrid Vehicles

If you’re searching for a fresh set of wheels, you’ve likely noticed a growing buzz around hybrid and electric vehicles. Even though we’ve all seen hybrid cars darting around for years, it can be confusing to tell the difference between hybrid and plug-in hybrid models. Though all new hybrid and plug-in hybrid models are powered by a combination of gasoline engines and electric motors, there are differences between hybrid and plug-in hybrid models. 

So, what is a Toyota hybrid car vs. what is a plug-in hybrid? Simply put, conventional hybrid vehicles use gas and electric power simultaneously and rely on their gas engines to keep their medium-sized batteries charged. A plug-in hybrid utilizes a larger battery that is 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. Learn more about the differences between hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles below!

What Is a Toyota Hybrid Car? Benefits of Hybrid Models

The way a hybrid vehicle works feels familiar and is quite intuitive. As you travel through Jackson, your vehicle will be simultaneously powered by a gas engine and an electric motor. This drastically improves fuel economy and allows your gas engine to recharge your battery as you drive. 

The way traditional hybrid vehicles propel themselves offers the benefit of improved mpg, without the need to stop and recharge. This can be a major advantage for many drivers since a hybrid allows you to drive more efficiently without changing your automotive habits.

Which Toyota Cars Are Hybrids?

Cars:

• Corolla Hybrid
• Camry
• Toyota Crown
• Prius

Minivans:

• Sienna

Crossovers:

• Corolla Cross Hybrid
• RAV4 Hybrid
• Toyota Crown Signia
• Highlander Hybrid
• Grand Highlander Hybrid

SUVs:

• 4Runner i-FORCE MAX

Trucks:

• Tacoma i-FORCE MAX
• Tundra i-FORCE MAX

What Is a Toyota Plug-In Hybrid? Benefits of Plug-In Hybrid Models

Plug-in hybrid vehicles also work with a gasoline engine and an electric motor, but the energy is deployed differently from conventional hybrid models. A plug-in hybrid vehicle primarily runs on its battery-powered electric motor during your Hattiesburg travels. Once the battery is drained, the gas engine will take over. 

Rather than the two power sources working in conjunction, plug-in hybrid vehicles treat the gasoline engine as a backup plan. The vehicle’s electric-only range is the distance traveled while operating solely on the battery. However, once that limit is reached, the plug-in hybrid switches to gas power. You’ll need to plug your car in to regain battery power. 

There are some other advantages of a plug-in hybrid vehicle. A plug-in hybrid vehicle is considered more environmentally friendly. Since you can pre-charge it, many plug-in hybrid cars offer the range you need to run errands around town on pure battery power!

Which Toyota Cars Are Plug-In Hybrids?

Cars:

• Prius Plug-in Hybrid

Crossovers:

• RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid

Find Your Efficient New Ride With Toyota of Meridian

Now that you’re familiar with the difference between hybrid and plug-in hybrid models, the time is right to make your upgrade. When you shop with the expert team at Toyota of Meridian, you can browse an extensive selection of new hybrid and plug-in hybrid models. Whether you prefer the benefits of a traditional hybrid or want to secure a plug-in hybrid model for your Philadelphia travels, we have the selection you need. Contact us today to learn more, and be sure to consult with our financiers on your upgrade.