Hybrid vs. Electric: Which is Right for You?

If you’re ready to try out something different than the regular gas-powered car in Mclean, you might be considering hybrid vs. electric models. But which one is best for your lifestyle? Learn more about the difference between hybrid and electric cars below, then browse our inventory of new hybrid and electric vehicles!

Hybrid Cars vs. Electric Cars: The Basics

Before we go into the hybrid vs. electric car pros and cons, we need to first understand what each model is exactly.

What is a Hybrid Car?

While hybrid vehicles are still gas-powered, they don’t fully rely on the gas engine. Instead, they use a gas engine along with an electric motor to power your drives in the area, so you can enjoy better fuel economy. The battery for the electric motor in hybrid models self-charges, so you never have to plug into a power source. 

What is an Electric Car?

On the other hand, an electric vehicle (EV) runs only on electric power. There is no engine, but instead, there’s only a battery and an electric motor. One difference between hybrid and electric cars is that the battery in EVs is much larger than in hybrids as it plays a more significant role in providing power for the vehicle to run on the Great Falls roads. You can charge an EV via a home or public charging station. Different models have different ranges, which is how far you can go on a charge. 

Hybrid Cars vs. Electric Cars: Pros

Now that we have established what hybrid vs. electric car is all about, it’s time to go into the advantages below! 

Hybrid Vehicle Pros:

• Easier to adjust the change from gas to electric 
• Be more fuel-efficient without changing your driving habits
• The battery charges itself
• You can stop and fuel up at any gas station like you would with a gas-powered model
• Hybrids are often more affordable than EVs

Bottom Line: So when should you side with hybrid models when considering hybrid cars vs. electric cars? They’re perfect if you’re on the edge about making the switch and still want to try the electric power without having to completely adjust how you drive. Plus, you can go far without having to worry about running out of charge. 

Electric Vehicles Pros:

• Saving more in fuel costs in the long run
• Decrease your carbon footprint
• Also fuel-efficient 
• Low or zero tailpipe emissions
• Quieter ride with no engine noise
• Fewer maintenance costs (no oil changes or engine upkeep)
• Potential EV incentives based on your location 
• Flexible charging options, including home and public options as well as different levels of chargers

Bottom Line: If you’re ready to commit to a new way of driving for long-term effects, you might find it’s better to dive into the electric side with a fully electric model. While it will take some time to get used to the changes, they will be worth it. Plus, when you opt for one of the Mercedes-EQ models, like the new EQS, you can enjoy an impressive range around Chantilly!

See the Difference Between Hybrid & Electric Cars at Mercedes-Benz of Tysons Corner

After learning about the advantages to hybrid vs. electric vehicles, it’s time to see hybrid vs. electric Mercedes-Benz models at Mercedes-Benz of Tysons Corner! We have a wide selection of both, so whether you decide to go for a hybrid or electric car, you can find the model that you love in Vienna. Contact us for a test drive!