Hybrid vs. electric cars: What's the difference?

Defining hybrid cars vs. electric cars

There are different types of hybrid cars, but all of them have an internal combustion engine (ICE) and some ability to use electric power. Hybrid cars vary in their extent of electric power usage, depending on whether the hybrid is a mild hybrid, series hybrid, or plug-in hybrid (PHEV). But all hybrid cars can revert to the power of their ICE. Electric cars are defined by their complete reliance on electric power.

Another type of car, the fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV), runs on an electric motor but uses a hydrogen-powered fuel cell. You must fill it with hydrogen gas like you would fill an ICE car with gasoline. In that sense, it can be considered a hybrid car. But like an EV, it has no tailpipe emissions.

Pros and cons of hybrid vs. electric cars

Consider these factors when deciding which is better for you, hybrid or electric cars:

• Homeowner vs. renter: If you own your home, you can generally purchase and install a charger to charge your electric car or PHEV overnight. This may not be an option if you rent, unless you live in a community that already has chargers or would be open to adding them.
• Available charging stations: If you plan to take road trips and you're considering an electric car, make sure there are ample charging stations along the way. If there aren't, a hybrid may be better for you, so you don't end up stranded.
• Costs: Hybrids have both an electric system and an ICE to maintain, which can increase costs. Fully electric cars can even be more expensive upfront, but they have fewer moving parts, which means fewer things can break down. Electric vehicle repair costs, however, can be expensive due to the higher cost of EV parts and labor. They may be eligible for rebates or tax incentives that can help offset their higher cost, but generally electric vehicles hold their value longer.

What's the environmental impact of hybrid vs. electric cars?

Because they have an ICE that burns gasoline, hybrid cars emit some gases. The one exception is the fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV), a hybrid that uses hydrogen instead of gasoline and has no tailpipe emissions.

Electric vehicles have no tailpipe emissions. But keep in mind that the electricity used to charge an EV may come from a power plant fueled by oil, natural gas, or coal. Also, hybrids and electric vehicles use electric car batteries that will eventually need to be disposed of, and we don't yet fully understand the environmental impact of that entire process, known as cradle-to-grave emissions.

Are electric cars worth it?

An electric car may be a worthy investment if it fits within your budget, your location is convenient for electric driving, or you want to drive a car that's potentially more environmentally friendly. If there are few charging stations available in your area or you plan to drive long distances where charging stations may not be available, you may prefer a gas-powered or hybrid car.