What is a Hybrid Car?

Hybrid cars are increasingly popular among drivers in Myrtle Beach and the surrounding areas thanks to their perks such as lower fuel costs. But what is a hybrid car, exactly? What does it mean when a car is a hybrid? A hybrid car is a vehicle with both a gasoline engine and an electric motor. These parts work together to provide you with a more efficient, eco-friendly vehicle. Learn about the different types of hybrid cars today with the team at Hadwin-White Subaru, and contact us with questions or to schedule a hybrid car test drive in Conway. We are here to pair you with your ideal hybrid vehicle.

Types of Hybrid Cars

So what is a hybrid car? A hybrid powertrain consists of an electric motor and a gasoline engine. In most hybrid cars, both the motor and the engine work in conjunction to maximize fuel efficiency. However, before choosing a hybrid vehicle for your Charleston adventures, you’ll want to learn about the different types of hybrid vehicles. Let’s take a look at the different hybrid powertrains so you can more easily understand the different hybrid car meanings:

Parallel Hybrid

A parallel hybrid is the most common type of hybrid vehicle available today. In a parallel hybrid, the electric motor and gasoline engine are both connected to the same transmission, whether it’s automatic, manual, or CVT. These vehicles use a blend of both power sources to drive the vehicle forward.

Series Hybrid

Series hybrid vehicles also feature electric motors alongside a gasoline engine, but unlike other hybrids, the electric motor is the sole power source directly connected to the transmission. In a series hybrid, the gasoline engine acts solely as a generator, providing power to the electric motors rather than driving the wheels directly.

Plug-In Hybrid

A plug-in hybrid is similar to a parallel hybrid in that both the electric motor and gasoline engine are connected to the transmission. However, what sets plug-in hybrids apart is their larger battery packs, allowing them to drive farther on electric power alone. If you frequently drive short distances, you can rely on pure electric power, and then plug in your vehicle at home to recharge, just like an electric vehicle.

The great thing about plug-in hybrids is that if you exhaust the electric range, the gasoline engine seamlessly takes over, functioning like a conventional parallel hybrid vehicle.

Your Hybrid Vehicle is Waiting for You at Hadwin-White Subaru!

Now you know what it means when a car is a hybrid. These vehicles are a fantastic way to reduce your carbon footprint and save money, so if you want to take one for a test drive at our dealership near Columbia, now is the time! Call 843-347-4633 or contact us online today to make your appointment. For more helpful information, review our guides on the pros and cons of hybrid cars and how to be fuel-efficient while driving!