Leasing a modern hybrid lets you enjoy the experience of a traditional combustion engine while reaping the money-saving and environmental benefits of a fully-electric vehicle.
But how many types of hybrids are there? And what is the difference between types of hybrid vehicles?
If you're one of the many motorists still not sure about what a 'HEV' or a 'PHEV' really is, read our easy-to-understand guide as we break down all things hybrid.
What are the different types of hybrid car?
The hybrid car market can be confusing – with each type boasting different benefits to suit different drivers’ needs.
If you’re unsure what you’re looking for and need more information about what each type of hybrid car is, we’ve got you covered.
The main types of hybrid cars on the market are as follows:
Full Hybrid (HEV)
Full hybrids have both an internal combustion engine and an electric motor. They're self-charging and never need to be plugged in. The electric motor can work in conjunction with the engine — providing extra power with less emissions at high speeds — or on its own in 'electric-only' mode at low speeds.
Ideal For: drivers who want to lower their CO2 emissions without worrying about plug-in charging. They’re also ideal for motorists who experience a mix of city and highway driving, as they benefit from regenerative braking in stop-and-go traffic.
Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV)
Plug-in hybrids (known as PHEVs) are like full hybrids but come with a larger battery that can be recharged in the same way as you would an electric car. The main benefit of a plug-in hybrid is that modern examples can travel in excess of 70 miles using electricity alone - meaning some drivers might seldom need to use traditional fuel at all. After the battery depletes, a plug-in hybrid will switch to hybrid mode, where energy is channelled back into the battery via regenerative braking.
Ideal For: drivers with shorter commutes or those who want to really minimise fuel costs. They’re perfect for people who can charge at home or work. PHEVs can drastically reduce fuel dependency and CO2 emissions if most trips stay within electric range.
Mild Hybrid (MHEV)
Mild hybrids (known as MHEVs) have a smaller electric motor and battery than other types of hybrids. The more modest electrical system supports functions like start-stop engine technology and acceleration while also helping to power accessories — all while improving fuel economy and reducing CO2 emissions. Some modern mild hybrids are also now capable of travelling short distances using nothing but electricity, which is useful for parking and for silently inching forward in a line of traffic.
Ideal For: drivers who want better fuel efficiency without the complexities of charging. They’re best suited for those who make longer trips and want smoother, efficient performance without having to switch to a full hybrid, plug-in hybrid or fully-electric vehicle. They’re also an affordable introduction to hybrid technology.
Parallel Hybrid
Parallel hybrids use both an electric motor and a combustion engine simultaneously to drive the wheels. This setup provides improved fuel efficiency and power delivery, with the electric motor primarily assisting the combustion engine during acceleration and at low speeds.
Ideal For: drivers who want a seamless experience with increased power and efficiency, without needing to plug in. These hybrids are particularly effective for people with varied driving patterns, as they adapt well to both city and highway conditions.
Range-Extended Electric Vehicle (REEV)
Range-extended electric vehicles (Known as 'REEVs' or sometimes 'REX') are unusual in that a combustion engine acts as a generator to create electricity and to charge a battery. With an REEV, an electric motor drives the wheels rather than a traditional combustion engine - so you enjoy silent, emissions-free running wherever possible, with the combustion engine only kicking-in when the battery depletes and you need additional miles of range. The Nissan Qashqai E-Power (above) is a great example of a range-extended hybrid.
Ideal For: drivers with range anxiety who primarily travel within an electric-only range but need a back-up. They’re ideal for city drivers who occasionally need longer-distance travel without stopping to charge.
What’s the difference between hybrid and electric cars?
The main difference between hybrid and fully-electric vehicles is how the car is powered.
Hybrid cars are typically powered by a combustion engine and an electric motor.
Fully-electric cars have no internal combustion engine and run purely on large battery packs that need to be recharged with a plug.
Why Choose Select Car Leasing for Your Next Vehicle?
Need help choosing the right hybrid car for you? Select Car Leasing is always on hand to get you the best environmentally-friendly vehicle at the right price.
When you choose Select, you’ll benefit from:
- Flexible leasing options to suit your needs
- Dedicated support from an account manager and administrator throughout your leasing journey
- Unbeatable discounts that lead the market
- A wide selection of in-stock special offers with fast delivery
Contact us today — our friendly team is ready to help you lease the vehicle that’s just right for you.
FAQs
What’s the difference between a plug-in hybrid and hybrid?
The main difference between a plug-in hybrid and a standard hybrid car is how the batteries are recharged. Hybrid vehicles use an internal combustion engine and regenerative braking in order to harness electricity and feed it back into the battery. Plug-in hybrids — while boasting some self-charging capabilities via regenerative braking — can be charged by a plug-in port similar to how you’d charge a fully-electric car.
What’s the difference between petrol hybrid and plug-in hybrid?
It's true that most hybrid vehicles make use of a petrol engine, though some vehicles - including the Mazda CX-60 - offer a diesel mild-hybrid powertrain. The main difference between a petrol hybrid (ie, a full or self-charging hybrid, or mild hybrid) is that plug-in hybrids must be plugged in to be recharged while other types of hybrids are recharged via a combustion engine or via regenerative braking.
What’s the difference between self-charging and plug in hybrid?
Although some plug-in hybrids come with self-charging capabilities, via regenerative braking, most rely on the owner to plug them in to keep the battery topped up. Self-charging hybrid vehicles are charged via a traditional combustion engine and regenerative braking.
What is the most common type of hybrid car?
Parallel hybrid cars (which are a type of self-charging full hybrid) are the most common type of hybrid car in the UK. Used commonly in the Honda Civic, the parallel hybrid engine uses both electrical and combustion energy to power the car’s drivetrain. The electric motor can be used independently at low speeds — saving you money on fuel – but can also work in tandem with the engine to deliver a smooth experience at higher speeds.
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