With the increasing need for environment-friendly automotive technology, more and more Hybrid cars emerge from the market. These vehicles got their name because they have two power sources – a standard gasoline engine and an electric motor. In Japan and other countries dedicated to lowering carbon emissions, these vehicles are quite popular. This is also the reason why we featured some of the best hybrid cars in the industry today.

Aside from releasing low carbon emissions, hybrid or electric cars also improve gas mileage. They are more fuel-efficient because they can run on electric power for several miles. However, it is important to note that these vehicles are not for everyone. After all, like any other type of car, a hybrid vehicle has its own pros and cons.

Hybrid Definition: How does it Work?

When people think about hybrid definition, the idea they have in mind are vehicles like the Toyota Prius. However, it is worth noting that there are various levels of hybridization. To put it another way, gas-powered vehicles have some level of hybridization or electrification.

Distinctly, Hybrid Vehicles use two powertrains, specifically an electric motor and a gasoline engine. A large battery pack powers the electric motor. It is recharged by the gas engine, as well as the energy recouped from the brakes. In a way, hybrids are the vehicles that bridge between the limitations and benefits of electric and gasoline powertrains.

What are the Pros and Cons of Hybrid Vehicles

Hybrid technology is available in almost every class of vehicle, including sedans, SUVs, minivans, and even pickup trucks. Of course, we all know how fuel-efficient these cars are. However, that’s just the tip of the icing.

Advantages of Hybrid Vehicles

• Clean energy – Hybrids run on a combination of electricity and gas. As such, they emit lower levels of carbon as compared to gas-only vehicles.
• Rebates – There are governments that offer federal tax credits or rebates for individuals who own hybrid cars.
• Benefits for your brakes – A good amount of energy generated from braking is captured and fed to the electric motor’s battery. With more charge to the battery pack, you can enjoy less fuel consumption. What’s more, it also prolongs the life of your brakes.
• Lower dependence on fuel – Hybrid vehicles encourage the nation to reduce its dependence on oil, keeping gasoline prices stable.
• Lighter in weight – Since a lot of hybrid cars are made of lightweight materials, they do not consume as much energy as their heavier, gas-only counterparts.
• Smaller engines – Hybrids are not powered by gasoline engines alone. As such, they only need smaller and lighter yet highly efficient engines.
• Good resale value – Even in the Japanese used car market, hybrid vehicles are quite popular. As such, you can regain a high percentage of the original amount you spent to buy the car.

Disadvantages of Hybrid Vehicles

• Not built for speed – If you are an adrenaline-pumped driver, hybrid vehicles may not be for you. Compared to gas-only vehicles, hybrids do not produce the same output and acceleration.

Weight conservation is important in this technology. So, vehicles under this class typically do not have sport-tuned suspensions and performance enhancements.

• More expensive – Expect to spend more on a hybrid vehicle. They are always more expensive than regular cars.
• Difficult to maintain – Hybrid vehicles are more costly to repair and not all mechanics have the expertise and tools needed to fix them properly.

So, do you think a hybrid car may be perfect for you? If you’re not ready to spend big cash on a brand new vehicle, contact Carused.jp today. We also carry a range of used hybrid vehicles. So, you are sure to find one that suits your budget and preferences.

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