How To Charge Hybrid Cars

If you’re wondering how hybrid cars charge or if they even need to be charged, you’ve come to the right place. Many drivers in Marlton are curious about the difference between hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and electric vehicles. Standard hybrids recharge their batteries through regenerative braking and the gas engine, while plug-in hybrids can also be charged using an external power source. Whether you’re doing research or ready to trade in your current vehicle to make the switch, understanding how hybrids work is the first step. 

Charging A Hybrid Car Battery: Hybrid Vs. Plug-in Hybrid Vs. Electric

If you’re a Vineland driver wondering how to charge a hybrid car battery, you’re not alone! The answer depends on the type of hybrid you’re looking for: a standard hybrid, plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), or an electric vehicle (EV). Knowing the difference between them can help you determine which type of hybrid is the best fit for your lifestyle:

• Standard Hybrids: If you remember when hybrids first started becoming popular, this is the type of car you’re thinking of. Standard hybrid cars use an electric motor in conjunction with an internal combustion engine. Charging a hybrid car battery in a standard hybrid is simple and requires no change to your daily routine: The battery self-charges as you drive around Turnersville!
• Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles: The PHEV segment has seen immense growth in recent years. Like the standard hybrid, it uses both an electric motor and an internal combustion engine. Unlike a standard hybrid, however, a PHEV can run solely on electric power for a certain number of miles (known as the electric range). This also means that a PHEV cannot self-charge; you will need to plug it into an external power source at a public charging station, a 120-volt household outlet, or a fast-charging home station. 
• Electric Vehicle: EVs technically stand on their own in a separate segment from hybrids and PHEVs. They have no gas engine, only an electric motor. Similar to a PHEV, an EV must be plugged into an external power source to charge the battery. 

How To Charge A Plug-In Hybrid Car Battery: Three Methods

Many Berlin drivers gravitate toward the PHEV segment because it allows them to save money when running errands around town by driving on full electric power, but they still have the option of a gas engine when going on long road trips. Charging a plug-in hybrid car battery can be achieved with three methods:

• Portable charging: Your PHEV will come standard-equipped with a portable charging cord, which should be compatible with any household-style 120-volt outlet. These are convenient in an emergency, but the catch is that they charge slowly. 
• Home fast charging: You can also opt to have a 240-volt fast charging station installed in your garage for convenient home charging. This will come at an added cost but is typically worth the investment because you can recharge at a much faster rate without leaving home. 
• Public charging: There are also public charging stations where you can stop to charge your PHEV whenever needed. Public charging stations aren’t yet as common as gas stations, but their numbers are growing at a steady rate. 

Learn More About Hybrid Vehicles With Honda of Turnersville 

We proudly help Woodbury drivers learn about the benefits of hybrid technology and find a vehicle that fits their lifestyle. Hybrids are an excellent choice for those seeking improved fuel efficiency, reduced emissions, and a balance between gas-powered and electric driving.

Why choose a hybrid vehicle? They’re easy to own, save you money at the pump, and don’t require drastic changes to your driving routine. Best of all, you’ll enjoy peace of mind knowing you’re making a more eco-friendly choice without sacrificing performance.

Still have questions about how hybrids work or which type is right for you? Contact us today to speak with our experts, explore hybrid options, and schedule your test drive.