Due to a growing focus on environmental issues, advancements in technology, and expansion of infrastructure to support more sustainable transportation, drivers are becoming more interested in owning hybrid and/or electric vehicles (EVs). Hybrids, which combine a gasoline-powered combustion engine with an electric motor, provide a transitional step toward going fully electric, while EVs rely entirely on battery power.
Depending on your lifestyle needs, driving habits, and sustainability goals, you may be exploring whether a hybrid or EV is best for you. To make an informed decision, we’ll cover key details and differences between the two vehicle types.
While EVs and hybrid vehicles both help reduce your carbon footprint, the technology behind how they do it differs.
Electric vehicles run solely on electric power, using rechargeable battery packs to fuel one or more electric motors. They’re sometimes also referred to as Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs).
BEV technology offers a zero-emissions alternative to internal combustion engines and requires no gasoline to operate. Instead, owners use at-home chargers or public charging stations to replenish the battery.
EVs are capable of running entirely on electricity, but only BEVs produce absolutely no tailpipe emissions and require no oil changes over the life of the car.
Hybrid vehicles, including mild hybrids and full hybrids (sometimes called “strong hybrids”), blend EV technology and an internal combustion engine to deliver improved efficiency and lower emissions without completely abandoning the convenience of gasoline power. Hybrid technology uses kinetic energy to charge the battery through regenerative braking, coasting, and decelerating while the vehicle is in operation.
Both mild hybrids and full hybrids automatically switch between running on an electric motor or gasoline engine to optimize efficiency depending on power needs and other conditions.
Mild hybrids have smaller, less powerful electric motors, compared to full hybrids. A mild hybrid’s engine can’t fully power a vehicle, but it is useful in certain conditions, such as ignition and accelerating at low speeds.
By contrast, a full hybrid has a larger electric battery and stronger engine, capable of powering the car for short trips without engaging the combustion engine. Full hybrids typically cost more than mild hybrids, but offer more power and greater fuel economy.
From our Crosstrek Plug-In Hybrid model, first launched in 2014 and discontinued after the 2023 model year, to our upcoming Forester Hybrid, Subaru hybrid vehicles are part of our commitment to safe, sustainable driving.
Vehicle performance and efficiency are important when choosing between a hybrid or electric vehicle.
EVs are more fuel-efficient than hybrid vehicles since they run entirely on electric power and can recharge their batteries using the kinetic energy from regenerative braking. EVs also offer a powerful, responsive driving experience, delivering instant torque and smooth acceleration. In addition, EVs provide even more efficiency and power advantages.
Hybrid vehicles can take advantage of regenerative braking and an electric motor to maximize overall efficiency, but they aren’t as fuel efficient as their EV counterparts.
Unlike EVs, hybrids need a gas-powered engine to operate. However, thanks to their ability to switch seamlessly between gasoline and engine power, hybrid vehicles can provide both improved efficiency over combustion engines and versatile performance.
For instance, some hybrids can come with advanced performance technologies that automatically delivers the best combination of electric and gas power to help optimize efficiency in various driving conditions. Hybrids may also have the option of operating solely on electric power.
Based on your typical driving habits, fueling preferences, and overall desired driving experience, you may find either an EV or hybrid makes more practical sense or better fulfills your needs.
Without the rumble of a combustion engine, EVs offer a relaxing, quieter ride while still handling the road capably and smoothly. Beyond providing an enjoyable drive experience, you’ll also want to consider some of the other lifestyle benefits that come with owning an EV.
Hybrids offer a similar driving experience to EVs and are also capable of running on gasoline, giving you more options for a smooth commute while still remaining eco-conscious. But don’t let their lean, green carbon footprint fool you. Hybrids and EVs, like the Solterra, can be a great choice for adventuring off the beaten path, and handling rough terrain.
If minimizing your carbon footprint is a priority, both hybrids and EVs demonstrate a commitment to the environment, each with their own advantages.
Without a gasoline-powered engine, EVs are known to produce less air pollution and fewer greenhouse emissions compared to hybrids. Other positive environment impacts of EVs include:
With a gasoline-powered engine, hybrid vehicles have more of an effect on the environment compared to EVs. However, hybrids still offer notable environmental benefits, including:
When comparing the cost of a hybrid vs. an EV, there’s more to consider than what you may need to pay upfront. Both types of vehicles can offer long-term savings depending on your driving habits, gas prices, and how those may weigh against energy costs if you choose to charge your EV at home. This can vary based on your vehicle and the most recent technologies available.
Qualifying new EVs and fuel cell hybrid vehicles may be eligible for tax credits and incentives as well. For example, new Subaru Solterra models may qualify for a lease incentive of up to $7,500 for eligible customers when leased through Subaru Motors Finance.
Given the environmental, efficiency, and performance benefits that hybrid and vehicles offer, it’s easy to understand their recent surge in popularity. Whether you want the ultimate efficiency of an EV or the versatility of a hybrid, Subaru is continuing its mission ongoing mission to be kinder to the planet.
With the upcoming Forester Hybrid and our all-electric Solterra – our first ever EV SUV equipped with Subaru Symmetrical AWD, Subaru is committed to producing vehicles that are safe, reliable, and offer the best of both worlds to drivers.