Hybrid vs. Electric: Which One Suits You?

Are you struggling to decide whether a hybrid or electric vehicle is a better choice for your driving experience in the Sterling area? Compare hybrid vs. electric with BMW of Sterling to learn how they work and explore their respective pros and cons.

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Hybrid Cars vs. Electric Cars: How Do They Work?

In order to make the best choice for your lifestyle and driving habits, you should understand the difference in how hybrid cars and electric cars operate. Learn more below.

Hybrid Cars

Hybrid vehicles still require gasoline as a primary fuel source. Like traditional gas-powered cars, hybrids have an internal combustion engine and a fuel tank that you can fill up at any gas station around Loudoun County. However, you won’t need to fill up the tank as often because hybrid cars also have a secondary electric motor that helps improve gas mileage. While you drive around Virginia, the gas engine and electric motor operate simultaneously to propel you forward. The battery in a hybrid vehicle self-charges while you drive, so there’s no need to plug into an external power source.

Electric Cars

Electric vehicles eliminate the need for gasoline because they do not have an internal combustion engine. Instead, they have a battery and an electric motor. The battery is much larger than what you’d find in a hybrid because it needs to provide a more substantial amount of energy to drive the vehicle. When the battery in an electric vehicle is depleted, the vehicle must be plugged into an external power source like a domestic or public charging station. Charging times vary between different types of electric vehicles, and it can take anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours depending on the type of charger. The level of charge on an electric vehicle also affects how much range (or mileage) is available. A model like the BMW i4 can get up to 307 miles of range when charged to 100%.

Hybrid vs. Electric Cars: Hybrid Benefits

Now that you understand how hybrid and electric cars work, it’s time to compare hybrid vs. electric benefits.

Hybrids are a smart choice for Sterling drivers who may not feel ready to fully jump into electric vehicle ownership. You’ll still see a substantial improvement in your fuel economy, but you won’t need to make any changes to your daily routine. Explore more benefits of hybrid cars:

The battery charges itself
You can stop and fuel up at any gas station
Hybrids are often more affordable than EVs

What’s the bottom line? If you regularly make road trips from Virginia to Maryland or have a high-mileage commute to the office, you may do better to consider a hybrid car.

Hybrid vs. Electric Cars: Electric Benefits

While comparing hybrid cars vs. electric cars, are you drawn to the idea of spending less time at gas stations? Choose an electric vehicle, and you’ll never have to stop at a gas station again. But that’s not the only benefit of electric vehicles. Check out additional perks below!

Better for the environment
Zero tailpipe emissions
Quieter ride with no engine noise
No money spent on gas
Fewer maintenance costs (no oil changes or engine upkeep)
Potential EV incentives based on your location
Flexible charging options, including home and public charging stations

What’s the bottom line? If you don’t have much of a commute and spend most of your driving time in the DC Metro Area, an electric vehicle could be a great choice for you! And, with the ever-growing network of public charging stations and the generous ranges offered in BMW electric models, longer trips are still possible with proper planning.

Learn More at BMW of Sterling

After exploring hybrid vs. electric car facts and benefits, which way are you leaning? You can find a brand-new BMW all-electric model in the new inventory at BMW of Sterling. Or, if you prefer hybrid power, you can find an affordable option in our pre-owned inventory. If you still have some questions for us about hybrid cars vs. electric cars, reach out anytime to start a conversation! We’ll help you choose what’s best for your driving experience.