Electric or Hybrid Vehicle – Which One to Buy?
A question that has left many motorists in the country confused is “How to choose between electric and hybrid cars?” These environmental-friendly vehicles have taken the automobile industry by storm, with a number of people looking to switch from traditional cars to greener alternatives. If you are one of them and wondering how to choose between electric and hybrid cars? Here are some points that will help you make a choice.
Think About Charging Options
If you do not own a house with a garage, buying an electric vehicle is not a wise decision. People on rent or lease need to get permission from their landowners before using an electric vehicle because of the extended charging times. Hybrid cars are easier to handle as their charging cycles are quicker.
Miles Cover in a Year
Another point that can help you figure out how to choose between electric and hybrid cars is the mileage you hit every year. If you are love driving all over the country or if you live in the outskirts, and need to travel several hours a day for work, then go for hybrids. Electric vehicles are perfect for those who commute within the city.
Initial Expenditure
Still wondering how to choose between electric and hybrid cars? Well, you can also take into account your ability to invest in the car. An electric vehicle is more expensive than a hybrid car. Even if you are taking a car loan, the down payment and the interest rates are going to be higher for electric vehicles.
Charging and Fuel Expenses
It is obvious that electric vehicles do not have any fuel expenses. You may have to pay a little extra for the electric charging, but that is all. Hybrid vehicles still need both battery charging and traditional fuel to run. If you are looking to eliminate fuel costs altogether, electric vehicles are better than hybrids.
Battery Replacement Costs
One of the biggest maintenance costs for both electric vehicles and hybrid cars, is battery replacement costs. Batteries for these cars are super expensive and need to be replaced every ten years or even before, if you use the car a lot. The batteries last longer in hybrid cars as they also use alternative fuel. A single time replacement of an electric car battery will cost you about $30,000. This is huge point to consider when you are deciding between an electric car and a hybrid car.
All these points will help you find the answer to the question how to choose between electric and hybrid cars. Both these cars can help reduce your carbon footprint. The vehicles are safe and comfortable to drive. Many families prefer hybrid cars as they do no want to be dependent on public charging stations. On the other hand, people who do not want to use traditional fuel find electric vehiclesto be better.