Hybrid vs. Electric: Which is Right for You?

2020 GMC Hummer EV Frunk
 

Comparing hybrid cars vs. electric cars? While either option could help you reduce your fuel costs by a significant margin, only one of these options will be right for you. Our in-depth hybrid vs. electric comparison covers everything you need to know about traditional hybrids, newer electric cars—and plug-in hybrids, too!

 

 

Hybrid Cars vs. Electric Cars: the Basics

Hybrid Cars

Hybrid cars have internal combustion engines as well as on-board batteries; these two components work together to offer impressive power and impressive fuel economy!

A traditional hybrid is a great choice for the Fairmont-area shopper who wants to save money on fuel without changing anything about the way they drive today. You can continue to fill up at local gas stations. Just expect your pit stops to be fewer and farther in between!

Electric Cars

Electric cars run exclusively on electric power and do not consume gasoline at all. The most common EVs today are Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs), which means that they use a large battery and an electric motor in order to move you forward. BEVs need to be charged for long periods of time in order to keep you moving—often overnight if you charge at home, or for one to several hours if you charge at a public DC Fast Charging station near Morgantown or Grafton. Slower public charging options are also available—and most modern EVs can offer between 200 and 300 miles of range between charges.

Electric cars do not have traditional internal combustion engines, and that means you can put oil changes (among many other services) in your rearview mirror for good! In other words, EVs are not just cheaper to refuel. They’re also more affordable to maintain.

Fuel-cell electric vehicles require special fueling stations and are not common in West Virginia, but that might change at a later date. Compared to BEVs, fuel-cell electric vehicles take significantly less time to refuel.

Plug-In Hybrid Cars

Plug-in hybrids sit in between traditional hybrids and fully electric vehicles. Although they can be driven on gasoline alone, they resemble traditional hybrids in that they most often run on a combination of gas and electric power.

The batteries on these vehicles are significantly larger than those of traditional hybrids, and they do require external charging—however, unlike traditional hybrids, plug-in hybrids often offer between 15 and 30 miles of all-electric range. In other words, you could be able to knock out your morning commute without using any gas at all. Plus, you’ll still be able to rely on gas when it’s more convenient.

Which Kind of Hybrid or EV is Right for You?

Still comparing hybrid vs. electric cars? Here are the recommendations that we make to shoppers who visit our Bridgeport dealership:

  • Choose a traditional hybrid if you want to save money on gas but lack access to charging infrastructure.
  • Choose a plug-in hybrid if you’re not quite ready to drive an electric vehicle but you’d like to get a sense of how it would feel to make the change! The benefits of hybrid performance still apply.
  • Choose an electric vehicle if you want to cut out gas entirely and you have a good place to charge up.

Traditional hybrids are the most affordable up front, but electric vehicles are eligible for the largest federal tax incentives and will save you the most money over time. Here as well, plug-in hybrids fall somewhere in between.

Compare Hybrid vs. Electric Cars at Dan Cava's GMC

Whether you’re interested in the Hummer EV or you’ve got another model set in your sights, we’d be happy to help you take the next steps. Get in touch with our team to speak with an expert about your options, or continue your research online! We’re here to answer any questions you have along the way.

 

More from Dan Cava's GMC

  • 2025 GMC Sierra 2500 Exterior

      The latest GMC Sierra 2500 features an adaptable exterior where rugged capability blends with a refined design on all your Fairmont trips. With multiple bed and cab configurations, the 2025 GMC Sierra 2500 dimensions can meet every driver’s needs around Morgantown. Let’s explore the 2025 GMC Sierra 2500 colors, features, and other specs that…

  • 2025 GMC Acadia Trim Levels

      Which of the three newest GMC Acadia configurations best suits your driving needs around Fairmont. Each trim provides a variety of GMC Acadia features that can enhance your overall experience. No matter which of these SUVs is best suited to your lifestyle, Dan Cava's GMC is here to get you behind the wheel. Our team will…

  • 2025 GMC Sierra 2500 Trim Levels

      The 2025 GMC Sierra 2500 tackles tough jobs while providing a premium Fairmont driving experience. With several GMC Sierra 2500 trim levels available, each offering unique configurations and features, understanding the range of options can help you choose the perfect truck for your needs. Let’s explore the GMC Sierra 2500 configurations and discuss the…

Garage

Your garage is empty.
Save some vehicles to get started!
Dan Cava's GMC 39.2782, -80.2772.