Hybrid vs. Electric: Which is Right for You?

If it’s time to trade in your old gas-powered vehicle for a hybrid or electric one, which option is a better fit for your St Louis lifestyle? The hybrid vs. electric car debate is one that’s been going on in Ballwin for several years now and we want to highlight the differences and advantages of the two. We’re your team for sales, finance, and everything else. From the many hybrid BMW models to the innovative new i Series of electric vehicles, there’s something for everyone at BMW of West St Louis.

Hybrid Cars vs. Electric Cars: the Basics

We’re about to give you a breakdown of hybrid cars vs. electric cars. First, we’ve got to establish a basic set of terms and differences:

Hybrid Cars

Hybrid vehicles are still gas-powered. However, unlike a traditional gas engine, a hybrid has a secondary electric motor that the gas engine works in concert with to provide power to the engine. The gas engine and electric motor work together to give you a gas-like driving experience while keeping you away from the pump for longer.

Electric Cars

An electric vehicle, or EV, runs solely on electric power. There’s no engine, just a battery and an electric motor. The battery in EVs is much larger than in hybrids because there’s more for the battery to do. Electric vehicles have to be plugged in, which means you have to make minor lifestyle changes to fit an EV into your life.

Benefits of Hybrid Vehicles

Hybrid cars are great for new entrants into the world of alternative fuels. You’ll be able to earn serious fuel savings while making no change to the way you drive. Other hybrid benefits include:

• The battery charges itself
• You can stop and fuel up at any gas station
• Hybrids are often more affordable than EVs

We think that if you commute long distances or you want to go on a road trip on a whim, the hybrid life is the life for you.

Benefits of Electric Vehicles

EVs completely take gas out of the equation, giving you significant savings because there’s no pump. You’re also helping the environment because there’s no tailpipe emissions for you to concern yourself with. Here’s a list of advantages:

• Low or zero tailpipe emissions
• Quieter ride with no engine noise
• No money spent on gas
• Fewer maintenance costs (no oil changes or engine upkeep)
• Potential EV incentives based on your location
• Flexible charging options, including home and public options

Find Your Perfect New Vehicle with Us

No matter whether hybrid vs. electric is the choice for you, count on the team at BMW of West St Louis to help you make the right choice. Contact us today with any questions you may have and let our team help you get through the car buying process.