Owning a hybrid car can be a rewarding experience that comes with a lot of benefits. In this article, we discuss the differences between your standard petrol engine and the different types of hybrids to help you make an informed decision before you purchase.
Unlike in a standard car, where power is supplied solely by an internal combustion engine (ICE), a hybrid vehicle uses a combination of electric battery power and a combustion engine.
A hybrid engine is different from a standard petrol or diesel engine, as it does not solely rely on one source of power; instead, it uses two. This means a hybrid car can function more efficiently by utilising both the electric motor and petrol motor as and when needed. As with any vehicle regular maintenance and appropriate use can help maximise the lifespan of key vehicle components, including the hybrid battery or vehicle engine.
Although most hybrids use similar technology, there are some differences between Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs) and Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs).
In a standard HEV, the petrol engine is the primary source of power for the vehicle, while the electric motor acts as a secondary power source by using kinetic energy.
The electric motor is integrated into the transmission to serve as a source of propulsion. This allows the HEV to accelerate from standstill before switching over to gas when the accelerator pedal is pressed down to a certain angle. It can also activate if the car goes over a certain speed.
A plug-in-hybrid vehicle runs differently from a standard hybrid vehicle. A plug-in hybrid electric vehicle works with an electric motor (powered by batteries) and an internal combustion engine, but a PHEV's battery can be charged via an electric power outlet.
Unlike a conventional hybrid vehicle, a PHEV will run on electric power until the battery depletes. Once this occurs, the vehicle switches to the ICE, giving it incredible range.
The battery of a hybrid car works by recovering energy that would otherwise be wasted in a petrol engine. When a car slows down and puts on the brakes, kinetic energy is created. In a standard car, this energy is released as heat. In a hybrid vehicle, this energy is reused in a process called regenerative braking and is fed back into the battery.
Most hybrid car batteries tend to last about 8–10 years (or roughly 100,000–150,000 miles) before you may need a replacement [1]. However, how long the battery truly lasts often depends heavily on how the car is used:
Similarly, climate and maintenance habits (e.g. regular servicing, avoiding extreme temperatures, ensuring battery health checks) play an important role.
These considerations also apply to other vehicle types; car usage, climate and maintenance habits also impact in the lifespan for internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles.
Hybrid cars are charged either automatically while driving or by connecting to a charger. However, this differs depending on the type of hybrid vehicle you own.
A standard hybrid vehicle cannot be charged at a power outlet like a purely electric vehicle or a PHEV, instead it charges itself using the energy created by the engine and braking system.
However, you still need to fill the fuel tank with petrol or diesel. Meaning HEVs require very little change to your driving habits while still helping to reduce fuel consumption.
A plug-in hybrid can be charged in two ways. Like a HEV, the plug-in hybrid's battery can be charged by energy created through braking. Most PHEVs can be fully charged overnight using a standard home charge point, while public charging points offer quicker top-ups when you’re on the go.
For more information, read our guide on how to charge an electric car.
A HEV can run on fuel alone, as the combustion engine will power the car normally if the battery is low. However, keeping the fuel tank topped up is essential. Even if the battery has some charge, running out of fuel can prevent the engine from operating and recharging the battery, which could cause serious damage to the vehicle.
Similarly, a PHEV can run on fuel only when the battery is depleted. PHEVs are designed to switch to the combustion engine when the electric range runs out. However, the battery never fully depletes. The battery maintains a reserve charge that allows it to function like a standard hybrid. The dual capability is what gives PHEVs their versatility.
Both HEVs and PHEVs require fuel to function properly and are not designed for long-term battery-only operation.
Modern hybrid vehicles can come with dedicated smartphone apps that give drivers more control, insight, and convenience. While specific features vary by brand and model, many hybrids offer:
We're here to help. If you're thinking about saving money and lowering your carbon footprint, see what electric and hybrid vehicles our brands offer and upgrade your car with Stellantis Financial Services.
References
Our guide to hybrid cars and which one may be suitable for you.
Everything you need to know about the types of finance options for electric and hybrid cars.
Find out how hybrid cars are more efficient than standard ICE vehicles.
