Hybrid vs Electric Cars | Fort Dodge, IA

During this time of rising gas prices, many folks in the Fort Dodge area may be wondering how they can save money on their automotive upkeep expenses. One way is to invest in a vehicle that has low fuel costs. The two best choices for this are hybrid vehicles and all-electric vehicles.

While both of them use less gasoline than traditional internal combustion engines, there are some key differences between the two. This article is going to examine both hybrid and electric vehicles to help Central Iowa drivers figure out which one is right for them.

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How do hybrid and electric vehicles differ from traditional cars?

Both hybrid and electric vehicles have motors, powered by batteries, that propel the car. In a hybrid vehicle, this is paired with a traditional engine to increase range and power. 

By combining the battery and motor system with a traditional engine, hybrid vehicles cut down on fuel use. Some hybrids can drive short distances purely on battery power, reducing fill-ups. Dropping the kids at school? No gas needed.

All-electric vehicles, of course, do not use any gasoline. While your electric bill is likely to increase with a car charging in your garage, it's not even close to the amount you'll save on gas and regular maintenance. One way in which this happens is regenerative braking. 

When Fort Dodge, IA drivers use their brakes in traditional cars, a great deal of heat is generated by the brake pad. With a hybrid or electric, however, the motor runs backwards during braking and actually helps to recharge the battery. While this doesn't capture enough energy to run the car by itself, it helps hybrids cut down on fuel use and electric vehicles increase their range.

Maintenance Costs

Another way hybrid and electric vehicles save Humboldt drivers money is on maintenance costs. The constant combustion of gasoline in traditional engines causes lots of wear-and-tear on the vehicle. All-electric vehicles, on the other hand, just use batteries and motors.

One benefit of fewer moving parts? No more oil changes! The greatly reduced maintenance list saves owners of EVs like the Mustang Mach-E time, money, and the inconvenience of service appointments.

Conclusion

Hybrid and electric vehicles are a great option for Fort Dodge, IA area drivers who want to save time and money on maintenance. As you've seen above, models from Ford & Toyota offer more benefits than just lower emissions.

Here at Fort Dodge Ford Lincoln Toyota, a full-service family dealership, we work closely with you to help decide which vehicle best meets the needs of you and your loved ones. We look forward to seeing you on the lot soon.

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