The main difference between a standard hybrid car and an electric car is that a hybrid car gets some of its power from a non-electric source, such as gasoline. Electric vehicles like the Nissan Leaf, Ford Focus Electric or Tesla models run entirely on electricity. Once the battery is depleted, the electric car needs to be charged at home or at a charging station. With most hybrids, you can fill up on gas to complete your journey.

Similar technology
Electric vehicles are called electric vehicles (EVs), battery electric vehicles (BEVs), or zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs). For the purposes of this article, we will refer to electric vehicles simply as EVs.

Similar technologies shared by hybrid and electric vehicles include battery technology and regenerative braking. The difference is that hybrids have reduced battery range and size compared to EVs. That's by design, as power is supplemented by the hybrid's internal combustion engine. However, EVs need to be plugged in to charge.

Regenerative charging can power electric and hybrid vehicles, but its effectiveness depends on the vehicle and conditions. For example, in winter, regenerative braking is slightly less efficient than in summer. On average, the energy recovery rate is between 10% and 27%.


Not all hybrids can be charged
Hybrids like the original Prius cannot be plugged in to charge unless designated as a PHEV. Bypassing the need for plug-in charging makes HEVs ideal for drivers who want to reduce the efficiency of gas consumption without relying on a charging device. Drivers who live in apartment buildings or businesses that provide services in urban areas can also benefit from the hassle-free efficiency of HEVs.

Note that the PHEV also does not require charging, as you can run the PHEV on 100% gasoline; however, this will offset the fuel savings from using electricity as fuel.


The Cost of Maintaining a Hybrid
Over the years, a number of automakers have introduced hybrids with reliable models that require little maintenance beyond what gasoline cars require. This includes traditional maintenance such as tire changes, oil changes, coolant changes, etc.

When maintenance involves a non-functioning battery, oxygen sensor, or evaporative emission system, the cost may increase slightly. While these problems are uncommon, it's important to note that the complexity of a hybrid system may require a more specialized technician and therefore may increase the cost of some repairs.

Electric vehicles, on the other hand, are less expensive to maintain than gasoline or hybrid vehicles because they have fewer moving engine parts. No need to change oil, change transmission fluid or wear out timing belts. These additional benefits can positively impact your total cost of ownership.

(From:@greencars)