Beginner’s Guide to EV and Hybrid Vehicles

If you’ve been around our showroom in the last few years, no doubt you’ve noticed an increase in Dodge hybrid cars and other electric vehicles (EVs) amongst our great lineup of brands. Popularity in these models is growing fast due to their terrific upside, and if you’re new to the “electric world”, Helfman Dodge Chrysler Jeep® RAM FIAT offers this helpful primer.

Types of Electric Vehicles (EVs)

Battery electric vehicle (BEV): Also known as fully electric vehicles, these vehicles run solely on battery power and don’t have a traditional internal combustion engine (ICE). The lack of an engine also means that BEVs require fewer visits to a Dodge service center.

Plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV): These cars combine a battery-powered electric motor with an ICE. Since they can be plugged in for charging, they can run for a certain number of miles on pure electricity before switching back to the gas engine. The groundbreaking Dodge Hornet R/T is a great example of a PHEV.

Mild hybrid: These vehicles, which have come into fashion lately, incorporate a small electric motor to assist the gasoline engine’s efficiency. The motor isn’t big enough to let the car run on electricity alone – instead, it plays a more complementary role.

Full hybrid: Similar to a mild hybrid, only the electric motor is much bigger. This allows a full hybrid to run on electricity at low speeds, e.g., in the city, before the gasoline engine engages at higher speeds. The motor recharges through a process called regenerative braking.

Glossary:

Electric range: The distance in miles that an EV or PHEV can travel on battery power alone.

Charging: EVs and PHEVs can be charged in three ways: from a 120V household electrical outlet (Level 1), via a 240V charging station that’s either located in a public space or installed at the car owner’s home (Level 2) or at a DC fast charging station (Level 3), which is the most powerful option.

Fuel efficiency: By combining electricity with gasoline, HEVs, and PHEVs deliver significantly better fuel efficiency compared to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles.

Zero emissions: Full EVs produce zero tailpipe emissions, thus reducing air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.

Shop Our Dodge Hybrid Cars in Houston

Electric and hybrid vehicles offer a range (no pun intended) of distinctive amenities and benefits. Even better, the diversity of different model choices is growing steadily. Visit Helfman Dodge Chrysler Jeep RAM FIAT to check out our own inventory of hybrids and EVs and learn how our Dodge financing can be a smooth path to ownership.