What is a Hybrid Car?

Are you considering a more fuel-efficient vehicle around Altoona? Many drivers choose hybrid models as their next option. But what does it mean when a car is a hybrid? The basic hybrid car definition is a vehicle that has an electric motor paired with a gasoline engine. As you drive in Pittsburgh, the electric motor and gas engines work together to provide the best possible fuel economy. 

When you’re looking for something to tackle your Duncansville needs without consistently stopping at gas stations, choose a hybrid. In the following overview, Blue Knob Auto will answer what a hybrid car is and discuss the different powertrains. Explore what’s available and contact our finance team to explore your options! 

Types of Hybrid Cars

So, what does it mean when a car is a hybrid? A hybrid powertrain consists of an electric motor and a gas engine. In hybrids, the motor and engine work together to maximize fuel efficiency. However, before choosing the right hybrid for your Hollidaysburg adventures, a deeper understanding of the hybrid car definition is necessary. Let’s explore what a hybrid car is and the different available powertrains.

Parallel Hybrid

A parallel hybrid is the most common hybrid available on the market. In these configurations, the electric motor and gasoline engine are connected to the same transmission, whether automatic, manual, or CVT. These vehicles use a mix of power sources to move the vehicle forward. 

Series Hybrid

Series hybrid vehicles also feature electric motors alongside a gasoline engine, but unlike other hybrids, the electric motor is the sole power source directly connected to the transmission. In a series hybrid, the gas engine acts solely as a generator, providing power to your electric motor, rather than driving the wheels directly.

Plug-In Hybrid

When answering what it means when a car is a hybrid, you might have heard about plug-in hybrids. A plug-in hybrid is similar to a parallel hybrid in that the electric motor and gasoline engine are connected to the transmission. However, what differentiates plug-in hybrids is their larger battery packs, allowing them to drive further on electric power alone. If you drive short distances frequently, you can rely on pure electric power and then plug your vehicle in at home to recharge, just like an EV.

One great aspect of a plug-in hybrid is that if you exhaust the electric range, the gasoline engine seamlessly takes over, functioning like a conventional parallel hybrid. 

Discover Your Next Hybrid With Blue Knob Auto!

Now that we’ve explored the hybrid car definition in more detail, it’s time to find your next ride around Duncansville. At Blue Knob Auto, we’ve gathered a great inventory of pre-owned models from some of the most popular automakers. If you can’t find what you want, use the vehicle finder service to determine the right option for your needs and budget. Use our calculator to establish a budget and calculate your monthly payments before agreeing to one of our deals. Experience what a hybrid car is at Blue Knob Auto!