Hybrid Cars vs Electric Cars : The Indian car market is on the cusp of an epochal shift, with petrol and diesel prices rocketing sky-high. The hybrids and electric cars now come into play. Between those two options, one asks the question…which is most suited for Indian conditions? Let us try and explore that.
What are Hybrid Cars?
Hybrid cars operate on both a petrol engine and an electric motor. The motor helps during low-speed drives and in city traffic, while the petrol engine takes over when extra power is needed. An excellent benefit is that you do not really have to charge them externally; the battery charges itself whenever you brake or drive. Hence, hybrids make a lot of sense in India with still limited charging stations. The Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder and Honda City Hybrid testify to the advantages offered by hybrids through a mix of savings in fuel and convenience.
What are Electric Cars?
Electric cars (EV) run on batteries alone, either by charging at home or at public charging points. The strongest point in favor of the electric vehicle is that it does produce any emissions, thus working for a cleaner environment. On the cost front, they work miles cheaper running per km compared to petrol or diesel cars. The likes of the Tata Nexon EV, MG ZS EV, and Mahindra XUV400 rule the EV marquee in India. Nevertheless, very long charging times coupled with the shortage of adequate charging stations is sometimes a big inconvenient what with occasional long trips. Nonetheless, which is better for India?
Hybrids are presently the safer bet for buyers unwilling to depend on charging stations. They are fuel efficient and very swell for both city and highway driving. The other side of the picture is the electric vehicle representing the future. From an immature charging infrastructure to battery technology improving each day, EVs are fast becoming better suited and cheaper to own. For city dwellers with home charging, EVs already make a lot of sense.
Hybrid cars and electric cars have their advantages and disadvantages. If one today seeks convenience and fuel economy, then hybrids will be the sensible choice. The fully green and future-forward option is thus an EV. In short, hybrids represent the bridge; EVs, the ultimate destination.