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Hybrid vs electric
Deciding between hybrid, plug-in hybrid or an electric vehicle
In today's world, electric vehicles have become a significant part of the automotive landscape. The great news is that there are various ways to embrace electric mobility. However, understanding the distinctions between a hybrid, a plug-in hybrid, hydrogen and a fully electric vehicle is crucial. Let's delve into these options:
A hybrid car operates on a blend of an electric motor and an internal combustion engine. It primarily relies on the electric motor for acceleration and speeds up to 25 km/h, making it an excellent choice for urban environments. When higher speeds are required, the internal combustion engine seamlessly takes over. Notably, the electric motor recharges each time you brake, enhancing efficiency.
Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) feature both an internal combustion engine and a larger battery, similar to hybrids. What sets them apart is the ability to charge via an external charging station, hence the name "plug-in hybrid." This capability grants PHEVs a significantly extended electric range compared to hybrids.
A battery electric vehicle (BEV) relies solely on a large battery connected to at least one electric motor. It operates without any involvement of petrol, gas, or diesel. Thanks to innovations by companies like Tesla, as well as established manufacturers like Audi, BMW, Mercedes, Volkswagen, and Nissan, fully electric vehicles have become more affordable and widespread. Furthermore, the charging infrastructure and technology continue to evolve, with rapid growth in charging networks worldwide.
Fuel cell electric vehicles, often referred to as hydrogen vehicles, are powered by hydrogen, emitting only water vapor instead of harmful pollutants. Hydrogen cars, along with battery electric vehicles, are considered the most environmentally friendly transportation choices. However, it's worth noting that currently, approximately 99% of hydrogen is produced using polluting methods known as grey or brown hydrogen production. In terms of charging infrastructure, battery electric vehicles have an advantage because hydrogen refueling infrastructure is not yet widely available.
Embracing sustainable transportation
A hybrid car operates on a blend of an electric motor and an internal combustion engine. It primarily relies on the electric motor for acceleration and speeds up to 25 km/h, making it an excellent choice for urban environments. When higher speeds are required, the internal combustion engine seamlessly takes over. Notably, the electric motor recharges each time you brake, enhancing efficiency.In a world increasingly focused on sustainability and climate consciousness, the options for environmentally friendly transportation are expanding. Technological advancements, political pressures, lower prices, and investments from car manufacturers, mobility solution providers, and companies with large fleets are driving this shift.
At Ayvens, sustainability is a key strategic focus, and we're committed to offering solutions that promote greener transportation. Enter Ayvens, designed to simplify the adoption of eco-friendly car policies for companies and employees. We provide a diverse range of sustainable car models for private and business leasing and offer personalised guidance to help you choose the ideal green car. In this guide, we explore the differences between hybrid and electric cars to assist you in making an informed choice for your next eco-conscious vehicle.
Three types of hybrid cars and their CO2 impact
Hybrid vehicles come in three main types: mild hybrid, full hybrid, and plug-in hybrid. While all three combine a fuel engine with an electric motor, they differ in how these components work together, affecting their CO2 impact.
Mild hybrid
Equipped with a small electric auxiliary motor that offers extra torque, the mild hybrid primarily runs on petrol or diesel. It briefly engages the electric motor during acceleration to boost torque. This type of hybrid does not significantly impact CO2 emissions but boasts up to 10% better fuel economy compared to conventional petrol and diesel cars.
Full hybrid
Full hybrid vehicles utilize a combination of an electric motor and a fuel engine for efficient and environmentally friendly driving. These two engines cooperate to enhance fuel efficiency, particularly during periods of high fuel consumption. Like mild hybrids, full hybrids cannot be externally charged but rely on the fuel engine for charging. This results in limited CO2 effects, with notably improved fuel economy compared to traditional vehicles.
Plug-in hybrid
The plug-in hybrid closely resembles a regular hybrid but stands out due to a larger battery, a smaller internal combustion engine, and the ability to charge externally. This allows more extensive electric-only driving, especially on shorter trips, making plug-in hybrids more fuel-efficient and eco-friendly. However, it's crucial to align your driving patterns with this type, including daily electric charging, to maximise its benefits.
Fully electric cars operate exclusively on electricity from batteries. They lack a fuel engine, relying on external power sources for charging. While electric cars are restricted by battery range, typically around 400-600 km on a full charge, they offer 100% CO2-neutral journeys and significant fuel savings. As technology and infrastructure continue to advance, electric vehicles are set to overcome range limitations and charging concerns.
The choice between hybrid and electric company cars depends on your preferences, needs, and corporate car policies. If you prioritise green driving without being constrained by charging time and range, hybrid cars are a compelling option, with plug-in hybrids leading in eco-friendliness, if they are charged and driven on electricity. However, hybrids typically have two engines, making them heavier, which makes them less fuel efficient and creates greater wear and tear on your tyres.
Selecting a green company car involves trade-offs. Your decision should align with your individual preferences, company policies, and budget constraints. As electric vehicle technology and charging infrastructure continue to evolve, the limitations of range and charging will diminish, making the transition to electric vehicles even more appealing.