What is a Hybrid Car?

If you need a more fuel-efficient new ride to save money on your Oak Lawn commute, a hybrid car is an excellent option! But what is a hybrid car exactly? The hybrid car definition is a vehicle with an electric motor and a gasoline engine that work in tandem to maximize your mpg. Here the team at Oak Lawn Toyota explains the hybrid car meaning in detail and answers the common question, “What is a hybrid car?” If you have more questions or want to climb behind the wheel of a new hybrid, contact us today!

Types of Hybrid Cars

Not all hybrid cars are the same. In most hybrid car definitions, the electric motor and the engine work together to maximize fuel economy. However, before choosing a hybrid vehicle for your Evergreen Park lifestyle, you should learn about the different types of hybrid cars.

Parallel Hybrid

A parallel hybrid is the most common type of hybrid vehicle on Orland Park roads and beyond. The parallel hybrid car meaning is that the electric motor and gasoline engine are connected to the same transmission. Parallel hybrids mix their two power sources together to power the vehicle forward.

Series Hybrid

Series hybrid vehicles also have an electric motor and a combustion engine. The difference is the electric motor is paired with the transmission and is the only power source of the vehicle. The gas engine in a series hybrid acts like a generator for the electric motor and provides power to the gasoline engine.

Plug-In Hybrid

A plug-in hybrid is like a parallel hybrid. Both the electric motor and gasoline engine are connected to the vehicle’s transmission. However, what makes plug-in hybrids unique is that they have increased battery packs, so you can drive to Countryside and beyond using only the electric motor. Essentially, you can drive on pure electric power and plug the hybrid vehicle in to recharge it. One of the most significant benefits of a PHEV (plug-in hybrid vehicle) is that if you run out of electric power, the gasoline engine kicks in and acts like a traditional parallel hybrid vehicle.

Your New Hybrid Vehicle Awaits You at Oak Lawn Toyota!

Now that we’ve answered the question, “What is a hybrid car?” is a hybrid right for you? Hybrid vehicles are a wonderful option if you want to avoid range anxiety but want a more fuel-efficient car. Whether you want a new or pre-owned hybrid vehicle, Oak Lawn Toyota has it! Contact us today or shop our impressive inventory online! You should also check out our new vehicle specials to save big on your next purchase!