Hybrid vs. Electric Guide

If it is the right time for you to make the move from a traditional gas model to a revolutionary hybrid or electric model, you might be wondering which one is the right step for you. Change can be scary, but Cornerstone Auto is here to break down the differences in our hybrid vs. electric vehicles guide, so you can make the switch confidently in the Monticello, MN area. 

Keep on reading to learn more and then, explore all of the hybrid and EV models from our locations across Minnesota:

• Cornerstone Chevrolet (Monticello) – Hybrid and fully electric Chevy vehicles 
• Cornerstone Kia (Elk River) – Hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and electric Kia vehicles
• Cornerstone CDJR (Elk River) – Chrysler hybrids, plug-in hybrid and electric Jeep vehicles, and other EVs coming soon in the next few years
• Cornerstone Ford (Elk River) – Hybrid, plug-in, and electric Ford vehicles
• Cornerstone Plymouth (Plymouth) – Pre-owned hybrid, plug-in, and EV at an affordable price

Hybrid vs. Electric Cars: Definition 

Before we get into all of the detail in our guide to hybrid vs. electric cars, we need to establish what each type of vehicle is exactly. 

Hybrid Vehicles

While hybrid cars still rely on gas, they don’t solely rely on the gas engine for power on the Ramsey, MN roads. The hybrid power is due to the collaboration of a gas engine and an electric motor, which also produces an impressive fuel economy that is much more efficient than that of a traditional gas vehicle. What’s even more fascinating is that the battery in the electric motor charges itself, so you won’t have to worry about charging it manually! 

Electric Vehicle

The main difference when it comes to hybrid cars vs. electric cars is that an electric vehicle or EV, for short, uses only electric power from a battery and electric motor and eliminates the engine entirely! EV has batteries much bigger than the ones in hybrids since it is more relied on for the car’s power. The mileage range will change depending on how much charge is in the battery. 

Hybrid vs. Electric: Which One Is Right For You?

Now that we have laid the groundwork for hybrid vs. electric vehicles, we can move on to the pros and cons of each type of vehicle, so you can decide which is better for your driving needs around Anoka, MN. 

Hybrid Cars vs. Electric Cars: Managing the Switch

Cornerstone Auto understands that the switch from a gas-fueled car to a non-gas-fueled car will require some time to adjust. However, while opting out of a gas-powered vehicle is a big step into a more eco-friendly lifestyle and future, you should consider how confident you are with this big change.

If you want to opt for a greener future in a more manageable way, we recommend you to go for a hybrid model because you can start using electric power while still having gas as a familiar backup. Additionally, you can still become more fuel-efficient during your commutes without having to worry about charging the battery. 

If you feel confident that you can handle the switch flawlessly, find out how long it takes to charge an EV before you can hit the roads! 

Hybrid Cars vs. Electric Cars: Fuel Savings 

However, this is not to say drivers who are making the switch shouldn’t consider an EV for their first non-gas-fueled vehicle. Depending on the drivers themselves and how they feel about accustoming all of the changes at once with an EV, it can be a better option. Often, the benefits of owning an EV are more than enough to motivate drivers for the complete 180-degree switch! 

Usually, the long-term fuel savings does the trick for many drivers in the Coon Rapids, MN area. Without the need for gas, drivers who own an EV can save on gas money, basic maintenance (such as oil changes and engine checks), and their footprint while increasing their efficiency on the road! Other enticing perks include low or zero tailpipe emissions, having a quieter driving experience, and more. 

Hybrid vs. Electric Vehicles: Cost 

While hybrid vehicles are often cheaper than EVs, there are incentives that you can use for EVs as well as hybrids when you make a purchase in Minnesota. When you shop at any of the Cornerstone locations, you can expect to find new vehicle specials, leasing deals, and even pre-owned vehicle specials on a hybrid or EV model that you want!

If you’re worried about the cost of setting up a charging station at your home, there may also be local incentives to cover part of the installation cost. Our team at Cornerstone Auto likes to explain to drivers that while EVs may be more expensive up front, their savings and exclusive benefits are paid off as you continue to use them for longer. Because it is probably more difficult to switch to a fully electric vehicle from a fully gas vehicle, there are more significant advantages in the long run. 

Explore the Future of Vehicles at Cornerstone Auto Dealerships

Are you thinking of opting for a hybrid model or an EV? Whether you prefer one over the other, explore the lineups at any or all of our dealerships near Elk River. Contact us if you need more guidance!