These days, a great deal of attention is being given to electric vehicles (EVs) in the news and even in government circles, but not all of the attention is positive. EVs have demonstrated that they are a great option for daily commuting and for errands around town. However, EVs can exhibit shortcomings for drivers who live in rural areas, and are not always an ideal choice for people whose driving habits may make range, charging, and cold weather issues a significant concern. Yet even people with more varied driving needs find the idea of EVs appealing.
These concerns can create a dilemma for people who want to buy an EV but question whether it will meet all their needs: should they stay with a traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle or shift to an EV? Mike White Ford in Coeur d’Alene and Sandpoint, Idaho, sells ICE and EV Fords. We are happy to inform customers about the competing advantages of our EVs versus our ICE vehicles, but have you considered hybrids – vehicles powered by electricity and gas? Ford manufactures several hybrid vehicles. If you are not quite ready to go all in on an EV, one of Ford’s hybrid vehicles may be the ideal choice for you.
Ford’s lineup of hybrid vehicles can give you fuel efficiency without compromising power or practicality. The 2024 hybrid models include the Ford Maverick®, Ford F-150®, and the Ford Escape® Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV). These vehicles represent a fusion of cutting-edge technology and eco-conscious engineering, offering drivers the best of both the EV and ICE worlds.
Understanding Hybrids
A hybrid vehicle harnesses the power of both an ICE and an electric motor. Unlike all-electric cars, hybrids rely solely on gasoline as fuel yet incorporate high-voltage batteries to support their electric motors.
One remarkable aspect of hybrids lies in their ability to reclaim energy during braking through a process known as regenerative braking. As the vehicle decelerates, the electric motor switches to generator mode, capturing kinetic energy and converting it into electrical energy. This slows down the car and also replenishes the battery for future acceleration. While traditional brakes still play a role, the regenerative braking system significantly reduces wear and tear on brake pads and rotors, making hybrids economical and environmentally friendly. Even more, because this system enables the vehicle to charge its batteries, many hybrids never need to be charged at a charging station.
The advantages of hybrid vehicles extend far beyond fuel savings. By harnessing regenerative braking technology, hybrids are designed to promote sustainability by reducing carbon emissions and minimizing environmental impact. Moreover, hybrids offer drivers a seamless transition between gasoline and electric power, providing flexibility for drivers who like the idea of an EV but who don’t like the limitations that EVs can impose on long-distance driving or driving in cold weather.
Different types of hybrid vehicles are on the market from various manufacturers, and they can vary significantly regarding how they switch between gas and electric power. For example, Ford’s Escape® PHEV gives drivers the option for daily electric-only driving (which is why they have a plug-in feature). For those who are used to ICE vehicles only, when shopping for a hybrid car, take some time to learn how a particular hybrid will perform and operate to determine if it is a good option for their specific needs and budget.
Many manufacturers, including Ford, have experienced a slowdown in demand for EVs and are shifting more attention to engineering, designing, and manufacturing even more efficient hybrid vehicles. As automotive technology continues to improve, there will be further advancements in hybrid technology. Still, hybrid cars have been on the market for over two decades, and today’s hybrid vehicles offer some impressive advantages to consumers in terms of fuel efficiency and performance. The EPA has rated the 2024 Ford Maverick as getting an average of 37 MPG, and the 2024 Ford Escape PHEV has an EPA rating of an astounding 101 MPGe (miles per gallon of gasoline equivalent)!
The 2024 Ford hybrid lineup represents an excellent option for drivers interested in an EV because of its fuel efficiency and other benefits, but who need the advantages of an ICE vehicle. Ford hybrids offer a compelling blend of power, efficiency, and economy. If you would like to learn more about hybrid vehicles, please contact Mike White Ford!