If you’ve been searching for a fuel-efficient vehicle, you’ve likely come across hybrid options like the new Clarity Plug-in Hybrid or the Accord Hybrid. Although you may be wondering, “What is a hybrid car, exactly?” In short: the hybrid car meaning is essentially an automobile that’s equipped with an electric motor and a gas engine. The electric motor and the gasoline engine work in conjunction with one another to achieve the best fuel economy specs possible.

Arlington drivers who want a vehicle upgrade that won’t require them to spend lots of fuel should consider a hybrid car. Read on with Wolfchase Honda as we do a deep dive on the hybrid car meaning and answer the frequently asked question, “What is a hybrid car?” When you’re done reading, feel free to check out our ongoing new vehicle specials to potentially get a great deal on your next hybrid vehicle.

What Are the Different Types of Hybrid Cars?

As mentioned previously, the hybrid car meaning states that the vehicle’s powertrain consists of an electric motor and a gasoline engine. Most hybrid car definitions will indicate that both the motor and the engine work together to maximize fuel efficiency. However, before you make a final decision on the hybrid vehicle for your Memphis drive, you’ll need to know about the different types of hybrid vehicles. Keep reading to learn more about the different hybrid powertrains:

Parallel Hybrid

Parallel hybrids are the most common hybrid vehicles on Bartlett roads today. The parallel hybrid car definition means that the electric motor and the gasoline engine are connected to the same automatic, manual, or CVT transmission. Parallel hybrids combine these two power sources to produce the vehicle’s forward motion.

Series Hybrid

Series hybrid vehicles also have electric motors paired with a gasoline engine. However, the biggest difference is that the electric motors are directly paired with the transmission and are the sole power source of the vehicle. The gasoline engine acts solely as a generator for the electric motors.

Plug-In Hybrid

Plug-in hybrids are similar to parallel hybrids in that their electric motors and gasoline engines are connected to the transmission. However, what makes plug-in hybrids different is that they have increased battery packs and allow Arlington drivers to travel further on electric power alone. If you frequently drive short distances, you can rely on electric power and plug the hybrid vehicle into a power source to recharge its battery when you return home.

The great thing about plug-in hybrids is that if you ever run out of electric driving range, the gasoline engine will kick in, making it just like driving a conventional parallel hybrid vehicle.

Shop for a Hybrid Car at Wolfchase Honda

Bottom line: hybrid cars are great options for Bartlett drivers who want a fuel-efficient automobile without worrying about a depleting driving range. Contact Wolfchase Honda today, and we’ll help you find the perfect Honda hybrid for your driving lifestyle.