Electric vehicles are attracting more and more interest today. However, we encounter different technologies in this transformation process. Especially hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles are important steps in the transition to electric vehicles. The questions on users' minds are, "So what exactly do these two systems mean?" and "What is the difference between them?"
What is a Hybrid Vehicle and How Does It Work?
Hybrid vehicles are vehicles that run on both a gasoline engine and an electric motor. These two engines work together or separately to move the vehicle. The electric motor usually engages at low speeds, while the gasoline engine is used at higher speeds or when more power is needed.
The battery in hybrid vehicles cannot be charged externally. The energy generated while the vehicle is running, especially during braking, is recovered and this energy charges the battery. This technology is called "regenerative braking." In this way, the vehicle produces the electricity it needs.
Hybrid vehicles generally work more effectively in city traffic and in environments with frequent stop-and-go driving. This is because under these conditions, the electric motor engages more often and reduces fuel consumption.
Which Cars Are Hybrids?
- Toyota Corolla Hybrid
- Honda Civic e:HEV
- Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid
- Kia Niro Hybrid.
What is a Plug-in Hybrid Vehicle and How Does It Work?
Plug-in hybrid vehicles also run on both an electric and a gasoline engine, but unlike conventional hybrids, the battery of these vehicles is charged externally by plugging into an outlet. The term "plug-in" here refers to the ability to be charged by plugging in.
These vehicles have larger batteries, allowing them to travel between 30 to 80 kilometers on the electric motor alone, depending on the vehicle. This means it's possible to travel for short daily commutes using only electric energy, without using any gasoline. When the battery is completely depleted, the vehicle switches to the gasoline engine and continues driving.
Plug-in hybrid vehicles offer a good intermediate solution for users who want to switch to electric vehicle use but are not yet confident in the range of fully electric vehicles. These vehicles can be used at a very low cost in homes or workplaces with charging facilities.
Which Cars Are Plug-in Hybrids?
- Volvo XC60 Recharge
- BMW 330e, Mercedes-Benz A250e
- Peugeot 3008 Hybrid
- Ford Kuga Plug-in Hybrid.
Key Differences Between Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid Vehicles
While hybrid vehicles cannot be charged externally, plug-in hybrid vehicles are charged by plugging into an electrical outlet. Hybrid systems use the electric motor as a support for short distances. Plug-in hybrids, on the other hand, can travel longer distances on electricity alone. This makes plug-in hybrid vehicles more economical for daily use.
Another difference is the battery size. Plug-in hybrids have larger batteries, which allows the vehicle to run on electricity for a longer time. In contrast, hybrid vehicles have smaller batteries with limited charging capacity.
In terms of fuel consumption, plug-in hybrids consume less fuel because their electric driving time is longer. However, if they are not charged regularly, they consume more fuel than a conventional hybrid.
Hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles offer important alternatives for users who want to transition to the world of electric vehicles. While hybrid vehicles provide practical and economical solutions, plug-in hybrids are advantageous for those who want to experience electric driving more intensely. Both technologies contribute to reducing fossil fuel consumption and offering a more sustainable form of transportation.
