What Is The Difference Between A Hybrid And An EV?

Hybrid wording in metal on vehicle front

When you’re looking for a new car, there are so many factors to consider - from cost and fuel type to suitability and colour. Now, with the addition of more sustainable modes of travel, there’s even more to consider.

In this blog, we’ll help you to understand the difference between a hybrid and an electric vehicle and - hopefully - dispel the myths around these two vehicle types.

What is a hybrid?

The first thing to dispel is that hybrid does not mean electric - they are completely separate systems.

And, if you’re looking for one definition, then it’s not that simple!

As the name suggests,  a hybrid operates on two different propulsion systems.

Often, this combines a combustion engine with an electric motor. Some would say it’s a halfway house for those looking to drive green!

What is the difference between a Hybrid and an Electric Vehicle?

Our first step in answering this question is understanding the differing types of Hybrid and their power train - that’s the bit that pushes a vehicle onward and makes the wheels turn. 

There are different types of hybrid to choose from too, but the most common are:

  • Series hybrid

    This isn’t the same as a normal hybrid, but uses fuel to power the generator, which, powers the battery via a Power Control Module (PCM). The battery drives the drivetrain and wheels. They are closer to EVs than a standard hybrid vehicle.
  • Parallel hybrid

    In a parallel hybrid, as the name suggests, the electric motor and the ICE engine are both connected to the transmission and can either work separately or together to deliver a smoother driving experience and better efficiency.
  • Plug-in hybrid electric vehicle

    These are like a series hybrid but can also be charged via a plug, much like your standard EV. As a result of this, they often have a larger battery compared to your standard series and parallel hybrid

On the other hand, an Electric Vehicle, known as an all-electric or pure electric, run purely on electricity. 

EVs have a drive train exclusively powered by electric, and no ICE. With zero emissions and rechargeable batteries, they are currently the greenest option for those travelling both short and long distances.

Benefits of hybrid vehicles over ICE

Let us preface this section by saying, there’s no right or wrong way to decide upon or choose a vehicle.

Committing to a hybrid vehicle can be a larger initial investment than an ICE - although savings will be made long term on your financial circumstances, driving factors and the brand of vehicle you are looking to purchase

  • With two power sources, these vehicles are often more efficient than a traditional ICE and offer better fuel economy, especially over longer distances at consistent speeds
  • With a half battery/half electric option, hybrids are a greener way to drive than a solo ICE vehicle.
  • Smoother and quicker acceleration
  • There’s less wear and tear, due to the electric-powered power units and the fact that braking is more gradual, using ‘regenerative braking’ to generate power, compared to more traditional braking systems that ‘lose’ energy when braking

However, due to their advanced technology, hybrids can be more expensive to maintain, especially if something goes wrong in the longer term.

Six high-powered EV Chargers at Roadchef Killington Lake

Benefits of EVs compared to hybrid vehicles

If you haven’t guessed already, Roadchef loves electric vehicles - thanks in part to our partnership with GRIDSERVE.

Across our 31 locations, we’ve got hundreds of high-powered vehicle charging points ready to power your journey with 350kW-capable CCS chargers.

There is - of course - benefits to choosing an all-electric vehicles against a hybrid model, many of which are financial savings.

  • Think of the environmental impact! Choosing an EV commits you to producing zero-emissions on your journey.
  • Without the need for any traditional fuel, you can save money.
  • Whilst hybrids pay a reduced rate of road tax compared to ICE, EVs pay even less road tax. Another great financial advantage for owning an all-electric model
  • Cheaper servicing and simpler maintenance, due to their simpler build and internal drive train.

All electric vehicles will require more additional financial outlay than a hybrid, traditionally, however many manufacturers will offer incentives to you for committing to an EV.

However, the government has introduced the Electric Vehicle Chargepoint Grant to help support homeowners and landlords with the cost of installing a home chargepoint for your EV.

  Plan your EV Charging Stop at a Roadchef Motorway Service Area on your journey