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Is a hybrid car better than an electric car?
We’re buying a new car, and we know we want to go electric. We want to save money on gas, so we’re deciding between hybrid or electric vehicles. A family friend has a hybrid, and says it’s way better than fully electric. Is a hybrid car better than an electric car?
Bellina Gaskey · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Great question! Electric cars have the advantage when it comes to saving money on maintenance and gas, and on simplicity and affordability.
First, the difference between
hybrids and fully electric vehicles
. A fully electric vehicle has no Internal Combustion Engine (ICE), only a battery pack that powers the electric motor that makes the wheels move.A hybrid vehicle is a combination of the ICE that powers all gas vehicles and an electric car motor. With a large battery pack that operates the motor, and a standard battery that operates lights, stereo, and other gadgets, hybrids have a variety of ways of charging and operating depending on the model you choose.
Hybrid vehicles have a feature that is both an advantage and disadvantage, depending on who you ask; they still use gas. With more states moving toward
banning gas powered vehicles
, gas is on its way out. For those who are still worried about how often they see electric vehicle charging stations, gas is an attractive option to make sure they don’t end up stranded.
Hybrid vehicles are also a lot more complicated than fully electric cars. Because they have the components of both the electric and gas vehicles, they have a lot more things that can go wrong and need to be maintained.
Although gas costs are reduced for most hybrids, as they use electric power periodically, a hybrid still requires stopping at the gas station.
Electric vehicles don’t have the ICE that needs oil changes and other maintenance. This is a huge benefit, as car maintenance costs an average of $1,200 a year. You’ll also save on average $800-$1,000 a year on gas, as all your fuel will come from electricity, which averages at about $30 a month.
More states are introducing tax incentives to buy an electric vehicle, making it more afforadable than ever before, and charging stations are popping up across the country with increasing frequency.
No matter whether you drive a hybrid or fully electric, you need affordable insurance.
Jerry
, the number one car insurance comparison app will help you find the best rates. You can save up to $887 a year with dozens of providers like GEICO, Progressive, Allstate, Nationwide and more.View full answer
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