Advantages and Disadvantages of Hybrid Cars
Recent years have witnessed a rapid surge in the sale of hybrid cars. But many people do not know about hybrid cars. Unlike traditional cars, hybrid cars are powered by two or more engines i.e. an electric motor and a conventional engine. The electric engine powers the car at low speed while the conventional engine powers the car at higher speeds. Thus hybrid cars converse fuel and produce less carbon dioxide emissions.
If you are confused about buying a hybrid or conventional car, here is what you need to know. Keep reading to know about the advantages and disadvantages of hybrid cars.
Advantages of Hybrid Cars
Hybrid cars have many advantages; here are a few of them.
- Good for Environment:
It is not a secret that we use hybrid cars because these are good for the environment. A hybrid vehicle is powered by a twin powered engine (electric motor and gasoline engine) that slashes fuel consumption and conserves energy.
- Financial Benefits:
Many governments are working for the promotion of hybrid vehicles to reduce environmental pollution. To achieve this objective, many incentives are provided to customers like lower taxes. These initiates are helping in the ease of the purchase of these cars.
- Less Dependency on Fossil Fuels:
As compared to a gasoline-powered car, a hybrid car is much cleaner and requires less fuel to run which means lesser emissions and less dependence on fossil fuels. It helps in the reduction of gasoline in the domestic market.
- Regenerative Braking System:
When you apply brakes during your journey on a hybrid vehicle, it helps you recharge your battery a little. An internal mechanism dive in that captures the energy released and uses it to charge the battery. It saves time and you do not need to stop often to recharge the battery.
- Higher Resale Value:
A huge focus on environment and increasing gasoline prices are making the hybrid cars more popular. A shift towards hybrid cars seems more advantageous to many peoples. People are willing to pay good money for a used green car in a good working condition.
Disadvantages of Hybrid Cars
There are many advantages to having a hybrid car, but there are a few disadvantages as well. Here are 5 disadvantages of hybrid cars.
- Not as Powerful:
Even though Hybrid cars are powered by two engines but the combined energy of both of these engines is not enough for fast driving. Hybrid cars are good for you if you are driving in the city but are not recommended if you are focused on speed and acceleration.
- Costlier:
Cost is a major barrier to the popularity of hybrid cars. This is a major reason many people are not buying hybrid cars. However, it is a one-time investment and that extra money can be offset with lower running cost and tax exemptions.
- Poorer Handling:
Automakers are continuously working on improving the efficiency of their cars. A major focus is on reducing the weight of the cars to make them more fuel efficient. Since hybrid cars use an electric engine, gasoline engine, and batteries, this adds a lot of weight to the vehicle. Extra weight results in reduced fuel efficiency so manufacturers cut down weight to counter this. This has forced automakers to downsize on motors and batteries. Meanwhile, suspension and body do not have as much support as they did before.
- Higher Maintenance Costs:
The presence of dual engine and continuous improvement in technology can make it difficult for the mechanics to repair. A lot of mechanics out there may not have the necessary expertise that is required to repair these cars.
- Presence of High Voltage in Batteries:
Hybrid car batteries contain a higher voltage in them. It can prove lethal for you in the case of an accident. It can even make it harder for other peoples to get you out of the vehicle.
Related Articles:
8 Best Hybrid Cars for the Money
8 Best Hybrid Sedans You Can Buy Today
9 Best Used Hybrid Cars You Can Buy Today
