What is the Difference Between Electric, Hybrid, Hybrid Plug-in, & Fuel Cell?

• Electric: Powered solely by battery. Must be plugged in to charge.
• Hybrid: Powered by battery first and gasoline second. Once the battery is low on juice, the vehicle will switch to gasoline and start charging the battery by braking the vehicle and the internal combustion engine.
• Hybrid Plug-in: Powered similar to the hybrid, only the vehicle has a larger battery that can also be charged by being plugged in as an all-electric vehicle would.
• Fuel Cell: A hydrogen fuel cell is powered by gasoline, which is converted to electrical energy versus being burned. This energy then powers the electric motors. You can compare this to a hybrid vehicle, with healthier fuel consumption for the environment.

The Perks of Driving All-Electric Vehicles

Zero Emissions Means Zero Gas Money

Without the primary need for a tailpipe, you reduce your carbon footprint exponentially. With zero emissions being emitted into the air, you won't have to pay for gas like you used to. Save the planet and your wallet by switching to electric.

Convenient Charging

On top of saving gas money, you can conveniently charge your EV or plug-in hybrid at your own home or at one of the thousands of charging stations across the country.

Less Maintenance

Maintenance is no longer a hassle with an electric or hybrid vehicle. Without an internal gas-powered engine, there are fewer moving parts that need maintenance. Focus your upkeep on less expensive services like tire rotations and alignments instead.

Tax Credit

Many electric and hybrid models have a guaranteed tax credit for reducing your carbon footprint and lessening your emissions output. Why not maximize your return and bank on even more money you can save by switching to electric?

When should I charge my fuel alternative vehicle?

Make a habit of charging your vehicle overnight to take advantage of lower rates and save money. It also saves you the burden of waiting to use your car if you tend to run errands during the day. Conveniently, you can charge your electric or hybrid vehicle at any time that suits you, day or night.

Do battery-operated vehicles emit electromagnetic radiation?

There is no data to suggest that there are harmful levels of exposure to electromagnetic fields, and studies show that conventional vehicles emit larger electromagnetic fields than electrified cars do.

How often will I need to replace the batteries?

Not often. In fact, you'll most likely replace the battery in a more extended period than you would in a conventional car. What's great about these lithium-ion batteries is that they are also 90 percent recyclable, further impressing the market.

Start Your Journey Today by Going Green with A Toyota

If you find yourself looking for a fuel-efficient Toyota in the Muleshoe area, visit us at Hamilton Toyota. We take pride in our Earth-friendly collection of Toyota hybrids, plug-ins, all-electric, and fuel cell vehicles. As gas prices continue to rise and global warming becomes a more significant issue, going green never looked so good. Save your time and money by opting for a fuel alternative Toyota. Your planet and wallet will thank you.

Do I ever need to get gas?

If you opt for a model that performs on both electric and gasoline, it's always good to make sure your tank is well stocked with fuel if you run out of electricity.

How long do electric vehicles and plug-ins take to charge?

There are different levels of charging stations. Depending on the model, a standard charging station can fully charge your vehicle anywhere from two to 50 hours depending on the depletion of the battery, while higher level charging stations can fully charge your car in as little as 30 minutes.

How do I install a charging station at my house?

Call a licensed electrician to install a charging outlet in your garage or near your house.