While a car with a gas engine is suitable for most people's needs, some may want a more eco-friendly option. Hybrid and electric cars are great ways to be conscientious of the impact you have on the environment while still having a reliable mode of transportation. Let's face it - not every city has great public transportation and not everyone can use completely green methods of getting around, such as biking or walking. Cities were designed for vehicle use and as such are not always completely walkable. That's why it's important to many people to have a vehicle with the smallest effect on the environment as possible. Keep reading to see how hybrid and electric cars can benefit you and the environment.
Hybrid and Electric Cars
Hybrid and electric cars offer a large variety of benefits. While these two categories of cars may seem similar, they are actually quite different.
The difference is in how these two types of cars are powered. A hybrid is powered by a combustion engine and an electric motor, which is why it is called a hybrid. In contrast, electric cars only have a battery and an electric motor.
Hybrid Vehicles
Considering hybrid vehicles have both a combustion and electric motor, it can be kind of confusing to some people how they work. While it may seem confusing at first, though, it's actually quite simple.
Hybrid cars use something called regenerative braking. Regenerative braking stores electricity created when braking in the electric motor. It then uses that electricity instead of gasoline the next time you accelerate. This ends up saving the driver a lot of gas, especially in the city where stop-and-go traffic is much more common.
This is how regenerative braking saves the driver a lot of money on gas, because they use a lot less in the long run.
Electric Vehicles
Electric vehicles on the other hand only use an electric motor. This is a much cheaper alternative to a combustion engine that guzzles gasoline. Cars with electric motors are typically much less complex and as such require much less maintenance. This lack of repairs can save the driver a significant amount of money compared to those who drive cars with gas engines.
These cars also save you quite a bit of money as electricity is much cheaper than gas. The reliance on electricity also reduces petroleum consumption, making it healthier for the environment.
Not only is it better for the environment, but it also creates a more pleasant driving experience. Electric motors are much quieter than gasoline engines so you don't have to deal with noisy engines anymore. This also eliminates the noxious smell of gasoline coming from the car.
That being said, while electric cars provide multiple benefits, they also come with a few drawbacks.
While charging an electric motor is cheaper than gas, it is harder to come by. You need to find specific charging stations to charge your car. This means you'll need a charger of your own in your garage if there are none near you.
And while the engine will usually require less maintenance, in the event it does break down, it often costs more to fix. Because electric cars are still somewhat uncommon, not every mechanic knows how to fix the electric motor, meaning labor would cost more than a gas engine does.
All types of engines offer unique benefits and disadvantages, so think carefully about what sort of car is right for you.
Find the Car For You
If you are looking for a car that will suit your needs, contact Tillema Auto today! With a wide range of makes and models, chances are we have the car you are looking for. Whether you want a hybrid, an electric car, or even a gas-powered car, we have what you need. Explore our inventory to find what you want and schedule a test drive today, our staff is ready and waiting to help you find your next car!
