Hybrid vs. Electric: Which is Right for You?

Torrance and Cerritos drivers want vehicles that can be both efficient and powerful, and that’s where hybrid and electric models come in. But how do you know which one is right for you? Explore the hybrid vs. electric car comparison below to learn about the differences and similarities between your options. If you’re ready to trade in your gas-powered vehicle for something that’s much more eco-friendly, then visit us at Lexus of Cerritos or speak with a member of our Cerritos team to learn more about your new vehicle options.

Hybrid Cars vs. Electric Cars: the Basics

In the coming sections, we’ll dive into the respective benefits of hybrid vs. electric cars. First, though, we must establish a base understanding of the core differences between hybrid cars vs. electric cars. 

Hybrid Cars

Technically, hybrid vehicles are still gas-powered which is one big difference between hybrid vs. electric cars. Unlike traditional gas-powered vehicles, however, hybrids aren’t fully reliant on the gas engine to generate power for forward motion. Accompanying the gas engine in hybrid vehicles is a secondary electric motor. The gas engine and electric motor work together to provide power as you drive through Long Beach, allowing for significant improvements in gas mileage. The battery for the electric motor in hybrid vehicles self-charges, so you never have to plug into a power source. 

Electric Cars

An electric vehicle (EV) runs solely on electric power. There is no engine, only a battery and electric motor. The battery in EVs is much larger than in hybrids because it plays a more significant role in providing power for the vehicle to run. Electric vehicles can be plugged into a home or public charging station to charge the battery. Depending on how much charge the battery has, the mileage range you have to work within an electric vehicle will vary.

Benefits of Hybrid Vehicles

Hybrid cars are a good option for Torrance drivers who are a little apprehensive about making the switch from gas to electric. You’ll be able to earn serious fuel savings without having to change your driving habits. Other hybrid benefits include:

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

Bottom line? If you have a lengthy commute or want the freedom to go on road trips without worrying about running out of power on the road, a hybrid vehicle is probably the best option! You can stop at any gas station to fuel up quickly, just like you’re accustomed to with a traditional gas engine. 

Benefits of Electric Vehicles

So what is one big difference between hybrid vs. electric vehicles? EVs completely eliminate the use of gas, leading to significant long-term savings. Not only are they friendly for your wallet, but also for the environment. If you’d like to increase your efficiency and decrease your footprint, an EV may just be your next daily driver. Common EV benefits include:

• Low or 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 options

If your daily driving mostly consists of quick trips around the Cerritos area, you may be able to consider an EV! The number of public EV charging stations is constantly increasing, so it’s only becoming easier to plan road trip routes in an EV as well. 

Compare Hybrid vs. Electric Cars at Lexus of Cerritos

Whether you’re looking to go electric or explore hybrid options instead, we have what you need here at Lexus of Cerritos. Explore our new vehicle specials and then contact us to schedule a test drive for the model of your choice. Be sure to contact us with any questions and review our electrified vehicles hub for more information.