Comparison between Hybrid and Electric Car: Nowadays people have become very conscious about environmental protection and saving fuel, due to which the trend of hybrid and electric cars is increasing as compared to traditional petrol and diesel vehicles which harm the environment. Both these vehicles play an important role in reducing pollution and saving fuel. However, there are some basic differences between hybrid and electric cars, which can help consumers make the right choice. In this article, we will compare various aspects between hybrid and electric cars.
- Engine and power source
Hybrid car: Hybrid cars have two power sources – a petrol/diesel engine and an electric motor. Both these power sources work together to run the vehicle. When you are driving at normal speed, the petrol engine works, and when the car has to be started or driven at low speed, the electric motor is used. Hybrid cars also have a battery, which stores electrical power and keeps charging according to the speed and energy of the vehicle.
Electric car: Electric car runs completely on electric power. It does not have any petrol or diesel engine. Its power comes from one or more electric motors, which are charged from the battery. The power source in an electric car is only the battery, which is charged and the vehicle is run.
- Environmental impact
Hybrid cars: Hybrid cars are less polluting as they use both types of energy sources. However, hybrid cars have higher emissions than fully electric cars due to the presence of petrol or diesel engines. But they pollute less than conventional petrol and diesel vehicles because the combination of the engine and electric motor works intelligently, and the engine works only when needed.
Electric cars: Electric cars are more beneficial for the environment as they do not cause any pollution. They run completely on batteries, which is a clean energy source. Electric cars do not release pollution into the air and also have a low carbon footprint. However, if the source of electricity used for charging is from coal or other polluting sources, then its impact on the environment may increase, but it is still much more eco-friendly than petrol or diesel vehicles.
- Fuel efficiency and cost
Hybrid cars: Hybrid cars have higher fuel efficiency as their battery power is recharged regularly. This means they require less fuel than petrol or diesel, and give better mileage on long journeys. However, hybrid cars cost slightly more than electric or conventional cars because they have two engines (electric and petrol/diesel). Also, the cost of hybrid batteries is higher.
Electric cars: Electric cars have very low fuel costs because they run entirely on batteries and are charged from electric charging stations. Electric charging is cheaper than petrol or diesel. However, electric cars usually have a higher initial cost than hybrid and conventional cars because their batteries are expensive. But in the long run, this cost reduces because they do not depend on petrol or diesel.
- Range and Charging
Hybrid Cars: The range of hybrid cars depends on both petrol engines and electric batteries. Their range is similar to that of conventional petrol or diesel cars, and they can be driven continuously for many hours, as the petrol engine takes over when the battery runs out. Hybrid cars do not require charging, as the battery power is automatically charged during vehicle operation.
Electric Cars: The range of electric cars depends on their battery size and charging infrastructure. The range of a typical electric car is around 200-400 km, depending on the car model and battery capacity. However, the range depends on the availability of charging stations and battery charging time. Some electric cars have fast charging facilities, which can charge the battery quickly, but these facilities are not available everywhere.
- Maintenance and Care
Hybrid Cars: The maintenance of hybrid cars is similar to that of conventional cars, although it requires additional care, such as maintenance of the electric motor and battery. Hybrid batteries need to be replaced from time to time, and require more care.
Electric cars: Electric cars are low maintenance as they do not have petrol or diesel engines and there is no gearbox. This means fewer parts and lower maintenance costs. However, it is important to charge the battery properly to maintain its lifespan.
