A Look at Some Key Hybrid and EV Terms

Drivers who aren't familiar with eco-friendly alternatives to traditional vehicles often ask, "What does hybrid mean?" when they contact us. It's wise to familiarize yourself with terms like "hybrid" and others before you start shopping for a hybrid or EV so you'll understand how your choice will impact your ownership experience. In keeping with our standard of excellence, the team at Gillman Chevrolet GMC has compiled a list of must-know EV and hybrid terminology for you.

 

Hybrid

If you want to shrink your carbon footprint, you might want to get a hybrid car. Hybrid automobiles come in two varieties, traditional and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles.

Both types of automobiles have hybridized powertrains that include a gas-powered engine, a battery pack, and at least one electric motor. Traditional hybrids rely exclusively on regenerative brakes to charge their batteries while PHEVs rely on similar brakes and an external power source to do the same.

Regenerative Brakes

PHEVs, hybrids, and EVs have regenerative braking systems. Regenerative brakes recapture energy to charge the batteries that are part of hybridized powertrains. Hybrids and PHEVs also have conventional brakes that help to slow and stop the cars.

Electric Vehicles

As you look through the new Chevrolet vehicles in our showroom, you'll see a growing number of electric vehicles or EVs. An EV only consumes electricity for power, unlike PHEVs and hybrids which also consume gas as needed. The Chevy EV lineup currently includes enticing models like the Chevrolet Silverado EV.

One-Pedal Driving

Automobiles that have one-pedal driving don't necessarily have just one pedal. The term instead refers to a vehicle's ability to slow down and/or stop when drivers reduce the pressure on their respective accelerators. Adding more pressure on the accelerator is all that's needed to bring a car with one-pedal driving back up to speed.

DC Fast Charging

Also known as Level 3 Charging, DC Fast Charging is the quickest way to add miles to a PHEV's or EV's driving range. DC Fast Charging stations are located throughout the United States, with more added on a regular basis. If you're not close to a DC Fast Charging Station, you can use a 120- or 240-volt outlet like the ones in our San Benito, TX Chevy dealership to charge an EV or PHEV at home.

Find an Eco-Friendly Vehicle in San Benito, TX

Now that you know the requisite terminology, it's time to shop for an eco-friendly ride at our location. Apply for Chevy financing now. Then, head in our direction to find your next Chevrolet vehicle.