Hybrid or Electric - Which Hyundai Vehicle is Right for You?
Hybrid or Electric - Which Hyundai Vehicle is Right for You?
Posted on June 9, 2023
As one of the key players in the global automotive industry, Hyundai is pioneering the way forward with its impressive range of electrified vehicles. Whether you're considering a fully electric vehicle (EV), a hybrid, or a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), Hyundai's versatile lineup offers something for everyone. This article aims to provide an overview of the advantages and characteristics of these three types of vehicles to help you make a more informed decision.
Electric Vehicles (EVs)
Electric vehicles are powered entirely by an electric motor that uses energy stored in rechargeable batteries. New Hyundai electric models such as the brand-new Hyundai Ioniq 6, Ioniq 5 and Kona EV, have become quite popular due to their impressive range, reduced operating costs, and zero emissions, making them a perfect choice as a first electric vehicle. Offering up to 581 km of range and with all models offering at least 400 km of range, a Hyundai electric vehicle takes range anxiety out of the equation.
The benefits of choosing a Hyundai EV include fast and smooth acceleration, lower maintenance costs due to fewer moving parts, and a significantly lower environmental impact compared to traditional vehicles. However, the main thing to consider is the charging infrastructure in your area and whether the EV's range meets your daily driving needs.
Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs)
A plug-in hybrid electric vehicle, as the name suggests, can be plugged into an external power source to charge the battery, much like an EV. However, PHEVs also have a traditional combustion engine that can be used when the battery is depleted. Hyundai's PHEVs, like the Tucson Plug-in Hybrid and Santa Fe Plug-in Hybrid, offer a balance of electric and gas power, allowing for up to 50 km of all-electric driving.
PHEVs offer more flexibility than EVs, especially for those who occasionally need to make longer journeys. These vehicles typically have a smaller battery than pure EVs, resulting in a lower electric-only range, but the combustion engine acts as a backup when necessary. However, owning a PHEV means you will still be using fuel, and maintenance costs are similar to traditional gas-powered vehicles.
Hybrid Vehicles
Hybrid vehicles use a combination of an internal combustion engine and an electric motor to optimize fuel efficiency. Hyundai offers several models, such as the Hyundai Elantra Hybrid and the Sonata Hybrid.
Hybrids offer better fuel efficiency compared to traditional gasoline vehicles, and they don't require any external charging – they recharge their small batteries through regenerative braking and by utilizing the combustion engine. While they do consume more fuel than PHEVs and EVs, they're a perfect choice if you're not ready to fully transition into electric driving but want to benefit from lower fuel costs and emissions. The Hyundai Elantra Hybrid, for example, averages just 4.7 litres per 100 kilometres compared to 6.7 litres for most gas-powered Elantra models.
Choosing between an EV, PHEV, and a hybrid largely depends on your lifestyle, driving habits, and personal preferences. If you do a lot of city driving and have access to a charging infrastructure, an EV might be the best fit. For those who frequently go on long trips but still want the benefits of an electric powertrain, a PHEV would be ideal. If you're looking for improved fuel efficiency but aren't quite ready to switch to an EV or a PHEV, a hybrid could be the perfect compromise.
Hyundai's diverse lineup offers a variety of options to meet your needs. Regardless of the choice you make, going for an electric or partially electric vehicle is a step towards a more sustainable future.