As you’ve driven around Arlington, you’ve likely seen an increase in the number of hybrid vehicles on the road. As this segment becomes more accessible to a wider range of drivers, everyone from daily commuters to the occasional driver are becoming increasingly more interested in trading in their gas-powered car for a more eco-friendly option. If you’re apprehensive about transitioning to a hybrid vehicle, especially when it comes to charging a hybrid car battery, Wolfchase Honda is here to ease some of your worries.

Drivers often want to know how to charge a hybrid car, and this will ultimately depend on whether it’s a traditional hybrid, plug-in hybrid, or a full-electric vehicle. Read on to learn more about charging a hybrid car battery and charging options with Wolfchase Honda.

Hybrid vs. Plug-in Hybrid vs. Electric: What’s the Difference?

If you aren’t too sure on how to charge a hybrid car battery, you’re not alone! The answer ultimately depends on the type of hybrid you’d like to drive: a standard hybrid, plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), or an electric vehicle (EV). Knowing the difference between these types of hybrids can help you determine which vehicle is the best fit for your Memphis lifestyle:

• Standard Hybrids use an electric motor that is paired with an internal combustion engine. Charging a hybrid car battery in a standard hybrid is quick and easy as the battery self-charges as you drive around Bartlett!
• Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEV) have become increasingly popular over the past few years. Like standard hybrids, they use an electric motor and an internal combustion engine. However, unlike a standard hybrid, 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’ll 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 Vehicles (EVs) are in their own separate segment, apart from hybrids and PHEVs. EVs 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 Bartlett drivers opt for the PHEV segment as it saves money because of less refueling due to electric power, but it also offers the option for gas so they never have to worry about running out of power. There are three ways to charge a plug-in hybrid:

• Portable charging: PHEVs come standardly equipped with a portable charging cord that should be compatible with any household-style 120-volt outlet. While these are convenient in an emergency, they charge at a slow rate.
• Home fast charging: You can have a 240-volt fast charging station installed in your garage for convenient home charging. While this type of charging will come at an added cost, it’s worth the investment because you can recharge your vehicle at a much faster rate without leaving home.
• Public charging: When you’re on the go, there are also public charging stations where you can stop to charge your PHEV. Although public charging stations aren’t as common as gas stations, their numbers are steadily increasing.

Shop for a Hybrid or PHEV for You at Wolfchase Honda!

If you have any additional questions about how to charge a hybrid car, contact Wolfchase Honda for guidance! We’ll also walk you through the Honda hybrid lineup which consists of models like the Insight and the Clarity Plug-In Hybrid. Our team will work hard to help you secure the keys to the perfect hybrid, PHEV, or EV for your driving habits and lifestyle!