Hybrid vs Electric


The excitement surrounding the modern BMW model lineup is only growing. Electric vehicles are being introduced with greater frequency, building off the already-strong hybrid lineup BMW has crafted. So, the real question for shoppers around Norwood, Dedham, and Westwood, MA, is, what’s the difference between hybrid vs. electric?

With powerplants in modern vehicles becoming exceedingly unique, it’s good to understand the difference between hybrid and electric. Our BMW of Norwood team wants to help out, so we’ve created this overview which covers the discrepancy between hybrids and electric cars.


What to Know About Hybrid Cars

What might be most important to understand about hybrid cars is that not all hybrids are the same. In fact, there are quite a few different types of hybrids including mild hybrids, full hybrids, and plug-hybrids.

If you start with mild hybrids, it’s basically a car which has an electric motor that automatically intervenes while driving to create slightly greater fuel economy. You won’t be able to travel on electric power alone with a mild hybrid, but you should see an uptick in fuel economy.

Go for a full hybrid engine and the electric motor will be more involved. Again, you won’t be able to ride solely on electric power, but the fuel economy typically is greater with full hybrids than mild hybrids.

Lastly comes the plug-in hybrid, an ideal choice for those who want to take the first step towards electrification without going all in. Plug-in hybrids allow you to travel a certain range on just electric power, typically 50 miles or so, while also having your gas tank around for the rest of the driving. Plug-in hybrids can be charged in your home and make for splendid family vehicles.

What to Know About Electric Cars

As you’re likely aware, electric cars run solely on electricity and don’t require any fuel whatsoever. You can charge these vehicles in your home each night and, assuming you have the right charger in place, should be able to expect full battery when you leave for your morning commute.

There are also public charging spots you can rely on to get your car’s battery up to full power in the middle of the day or during a road trip.


So, Hybrid vs Electric: Which Is the Right Call?

Both hybrids and electric cars are undergoing radical changes and advancements with each passing model year. So, the versions of these vehicles you see today might look noticeably different if you’re car-shopping in three years. Currently, though, the biggest divide between hybrids and electric cars is the use, or absence, of gasoline. If you want to skip gasoline altogether, go electric. If you want to test out electric driving but keep the gas tank around for reassurance, go for the plug-in hybrid.

Whatever the choice might be, the BMW lineup has some tantalizing options. You can search our BMW of Norwood inventory now or reach out to us for a test drive around Dedham, Westwood, and Norwood, MA!

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