Over the last couple of decades, cars have been moving away from the standard internal combustion engine that’s been around forever. Electric cars are getting plenty of buzz, but in the middle is the “hybrid,” which combines both gas and electric power. Even though Toyota introduced their beloved Prius in the late 90s – and they’ve gotten even better since then — many consumers still harbor misconceptions about hybrid vehicles. Peruzzi Toyota in Hatfield, PA is here to clear up some of those myths.
HYBRIDS HAVE TO BE PLUGGED IN
Not necessarily. While there are some plug-in hybrids that offer a longer driving range, many hybrids typically utilize another power method. Regular hybrids combine gasoline and tools like “regenerative braking” to capture electrical energy and keep the engine juiced up.
HYBRIDS ARE SUPER-EXPENSIVE
When hybrids first arrived on the scene, they were in fact more costly than “normal” cars (aren’t all “new” things?). But that was then. Now, hybrids are priced along the lines of many internal combustion vehicles.
HYBRIDS COST A TON TO REPAIR
Actually, hybrids utilize many of the same parts as a regular vehicle and have compatibility with typical auto parts. The only part that may be more costly versus “normal” cars is replacing the battery.
HYBRIDS ARE TRICKY TO DRIVE
Driving a hybrid is really no different than driving an internal combustion engine (ICE) car. They’re built on the same kinds of frames and suspension, so the “feel” behind the wheel is the same. The one thing that might take a little getting used to is that they’re so much quieter than gas-powered vehicles. Like, a lot quieter.
HYBRIDS HAVE NO “GET UP AND GO”
Some assume that a hybrid doesn’t have the “oomph” of a gas-powered engine. In truth, the electric drivetrain in a hybrid adds a pretty impressive kick to the gas side. For example, Toyota’s RAV4 Prime (available at Peruzzi Toyota) is among one of the brand’s fastest vehicles.
HYBRIDS DON’T REALLY HELP THE ENVIRONMENT
Sure, hybrids still burn some fossil fuels – and that’s not optimal for Mother Earth. But they burn far less than ICE’s. Don’t let the perfect be the enemy of the good: until we’re fully into electric or hydrogen-cell vehicles, hybrids can still support the environment in an important way (and save you money on gas!).
Got more questions about hybrids? We’re always happy to give you the lowdown at Peruzzi Toyota in Hatfield, PA!
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