When it comes to eco-friendly vehicles, electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid cars are the two most popular choices. However, it is crucial to understand their working principles and differences to make an informed choice.
In this blog, we will talk about the differences between EVs and hybrid vehicles.
What is an EV?
EV stands for electric vehicles. The engines of these vehicles run on an electric motor, powered by a rechargeable battery. You can charge this battery when you need to use the car.
Leading automobile brands in India have launched electric versions of their popular models. They have equipped these EVs with the latest technologies and features, making finding an electric charging station easier, especially if you live in tier-1 and tier-2 cities.
Advantages of EVs
The key advantages of buying an electric vehicle (EV) are listed below:
- Controls Pollution
Electric vehicles do not need fuel to run. They don’t release harmful gases like carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, or nitrogen oxides. It is the very reason they are called environment-friendly vehicles.
- Low Maintenance
An electric vehicle consists of a few moving parts in comparison to a regular vehicle, reducing the cost of maintenance.
- Tax Benefits
The government offers many tax incentives to encourage people to buy electric vehicles.
- Noiseless Operation
The engines of electric vehicles do not create any sounds while moving.
- High-Performance
Electric vehicles perform efficiently as their engines do not waste any power while moving the vehicle.
- Convenient
While electric cars require charging stations, electric bikes can be recharged at home. Since EVs are less common on the roads, you don't have to wait in long queues for charging.
What are hybrid vehicles?
The main difference between EVs and hybrid vehicles is that hybrid automobiles offer more than one power option. A motor and an internal combustion engine's combined power sources allow hybrid vehicles to operate. Hybrid vehicles come in both petrol variants and diesel variants. Once a hybrid vehicle starts and covers some distance, it uses its electric motor to drive further, making it much more efficient than fuel-powered vehicles.
Advantages of hybrid vehicles
Some of the key advantages of hybrid vehicles are detailed below:Seamless Switch
You can switch between electric and fuel power seamlessly. For instance, when your car needs additional power to climb an inclined road, you can switch to fuel to drive the vehicle effortlessly.
Environment-Friendly
Hybrid vehicles do not use fuel continuously, emitting fewer carbon gases.
Saves Money
A hybrid vehicle can save you more money by using only fuel to start the engine or when the electric battery runs out. It requires less maintenance than regular vehicles and has a higher resale value.
Balances Power & Efficiency
Hybrid vehicles balance the high power of fuel engines and the efficiency of electric motors, offering the best features of both EVs and fuel-driven vehicles.
Convenient For Long Trips
Hybrid vehicles can be charged at electric charging stations, and you can refill the fuel at regular petrol/diesel pumps. This makes them a convenient option, especially if you are planning a long road trip.
EVs and hybrid vehicles: Which one is better?
Now that we have seen the fundamental difference between EVs and hybrid vehicles, let’s determine which option is better.
Let’s look at the detailed comparison table below:
|
Feature/Specification
|
Electric Vehicles
|
Hybrid Vehicles
|
|
Purchase Cost
|
EVs are costly compared to petrol, diesel-powered and hybrid vehicles.
|
Hybrid vehicles are more expensive than regular vehicles but cheaper than EVs.
|
|
Maintenance & Fuel Costs
|
The maintenance costs of EVs are low compared to hybrid vehicles and fuel-engine vehicles.
|
The maintenance costs of hybrid vehicles are less than fuel-engine vehicles but are higher than EVs.
|
|
Pollution Control
|
EVs offer higher pollution control than hybrid vehicles.
|
Though hybrid vehicles cause less pollution, they fall short of the standards of electric vehicles.
|
|
Which one is better for long trips?
|
EVs are more convenient for trips within the city. However, they can cause inconvenience during long trips, as electric charging stations are not well-established nationwide.
|
Hybrid vehicles are convenient for both long trips and trips within the city.
|
Conclusion
Before you select between a hybrid vehicle and EVs, it is important to evaluate certain factors like convenience, driving needs and budget. EVs offer savings in maintenance and fuel costs, while hybrid vehicles are a good choice for those who frequently travel long distances.
While you make a decision between the two, you also need to consider measures to safeguard your vehicle. Investing in car insurance is a smart move as it enables you to drive stress-free, no matter the type of vehicle. A good car insurance helps you financially by covering repair costs in the event of an accident, theft or other damages.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the topic featured in the article. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.