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Hybrid vehicles continue to gain popularity for their impressive fuel efficiency and environmental benefits. But what is a hybrid, exactly? What does it mean when a car is a hybrid vs. a plug-in hybrid? The team at Stingray Chevrolet Bartow has all the information on the hybrid car definition to help you make an informed decision on your next vehicle.
So, what is a hybrid car? A hybrid powertrain consists of an electric motor and a gasoline engine. In most hybrid cars, both the motor and the engine work in conjunction to maximize fuel efficiency. However, before choosing a hybrid vehicle for your Winter Haven adventures, you’ll want to learn about the different types of hybrid vehicles. Let’s take a look at the different hybrid powertrains so you can more easily understand the different hybrid car meanings:
A parallel hybrid is the most common type of hybrid vehicle available today. In a parallel hybrid, the electric motor and gasoline engine are both connected to the same transmission, whether it’s automatic, manual, or CVT. These vehicles use a blend of both power sources to drive the vehicle forward.
Series hybrid vehicles also feature electric motors alongside a gasoline engine, but unlike other hybrids, the electric motor is the sole power source directly connected to the transmission. In a series hybrid, the gasoline engine acts solely as a generator, providing power to the electric motors rather than driving the wheels directly.
A plug-in hybrid is similar to a parallel hybrid in that both the electric motor and gasoline engine are connected to the transmission. However, what sets plug-in hybrids apart is their larger battery packs, allowing them to drive farther on electric power alone. If you frequently drive short distances, you can rely on pure electric power, then plug in your vehicle at home to recharge, just like an electric vehicle.
The great thing about plug-in hybrids is that if you exhaust the electric range, the gasoline engine seamlessly takes over, functioning like a conventional parallel hybrid vehicle.
Now that you’re familiar with the hybrid car definition, it’s time to start exploring your options! We have a vast selection of pre-owned hybrid vehicles at Stingray Chevrolet Bartow, so visit our dealership near Lakeland and Mulberry today. Have questions? Don’t hesitate to connect with us online or at (863) 578-4696.
