Hybrid vs. Electric: Which is Right for You?

 
With exciting new Mercedes-Benz hybrid and electric models on the horizon, you may be thinking about replacing your traditional gas-powered vehicle. There are more options than ever, especially from the new electric division at Mercedes-Benz, Mercedes-EV. Below, we’ll compare hybrid cars vs. electric cars to help you decide what kind of model is right for you in West Bloomfield.

Hybrid vs. Electric Cars: How They Work

Before we compare the efficiency and performance benefits of a hybrid vs. electric car, let’s take a closer look at how they work.

Hybrid Cars

• Hybrids use a traditional gas-powered engine in addition to an electric motor. The engine and the motor work together to power the vehicle, resulting in lower fuel consumption than fully gas-powered cars.
• Using a battery, the electric motor self-charges while you drive. That means you never need to plug in your vehicle to charge up.

Electric Cars

• Electric vehicles don’t have an engine at all. Instead, they rely fully on power generated by an electric motor and a battery.
• EV batteries are larger than the batteries in hybrid vehicles, and require an external power source in order to charge. Most Southfield-area EV drivers install a Level 2 charger in the garage for easy overnight charging.
• Electric range varies by vehicle. For example, the Mercedes-Benz EQS delivers up to 478 miles of range on a full charge.

Advantages of Hybrid Vehicles

The area you live in can also impact your choice between hybrid vs. electric vehicles. That’s because the distribution of electric vehicle charging stations is still uneven, with the majority of stations located in densely populated urban areas. If you need to cover long distances and you’re in an area where charging stations are scarce, you’ll appreciate the flexibility of a Mercedes-Benz hybrid. More advantages of hybrids include:

• Self-charging battery
• Typically more affordable upfront than EVs
• Do not depend on the availability of charging stations

Advantages of EV Vehicles

If peak efficiency is your goal, you can’t beat an EV. Without a motor to consume fuel, EVs are able to achieve zero emissions. That’s a major advantage in cities, where stop-and-go traffic can drain your fuel tank. Below, compare the hybrid vs. electric vehicles with a closer look at the benefits of EVs:

• Quiet and relaxing drive
• Zero tailpipe emissions
• Far lower fuel costs
• No engine maintenance
• EV buying incentives offered by many states
• Flexibility to charge at home or at public stations

Upgrade With a Mercedes-Benz Hybrid or Electric Vehicle in Bloomfield Hills!

If you have further questions about the pros and cons of driving a hybrid vs. electric car in Southfield, our team is happy to help. We want you to be confident in your choice, whether you head home to Birmingham in an affordable pre-owned Mercedes-Benz hybrid or the all-new Mercedes-Benz EQS. Contact us today to learn more!