What Is a Hybrid Car?

2022 BMW X5 xDrive45e charging

If you’re in the St. Charles auto market searching for a new fuel-efficient car, you might be curious to know what a hybrid car is as well as the hybrid car definition. But, what is a hybrid car meaning? Well, a hybrid car is a vehicle with an electric motor and a gasoline engine. With this hybrid car definition, it shares how the gasoline engine and electric motor work together to give St. Louis drivers the best fuel economy possible. To learn more about the hybrid car meaning, read on with Suntrup Automotive Group in St. Louis, and then check out more specials and incentives we offer to help you save.

 

 

Types of Hybrid Cars

Within the hybrid car definition, it states that the vehicle’s powertrain is powered by a gas-powered engine and an electric motor. Even though most hybrid cars utilize the electric motor and gasoline engine, there are still a variety of hybrid vehicles available near Fenton. Let’s take a closer look at the different hybrid powertrains below:

Parallel Hybrid

The Parallel hybrid car definition is when a vehicle has the electric motor and gasoline engine connected to the same transmission whether it is automatic, manual, or CVT. The Parallel hybrid type is the most common and blends both power sources to get the vehicle moving forward.

Series Hybrid

The Series hybrid car definition is when the electric motors are paired with a gasoline engine. The biggest feature that sets the Series hybrid apart is that the electric motors are directly paired with the transmission, which means it is the sole power source of the vehicle.

Plug-In Hybrid

The last kind of hybrid is the plug-in hybrid. The plug-in hybrid meaning is pretty much in the name. It has both the electric motor and gasoline engine connected to the transmission but it has increased battery packs to allow St. Louis drivers to drive further on just the electric motor. For short distances, we recommend using pure electric power and then plugging the vehicle in to recharge the battery packs.

The plug-in hybrid is unique because your gasoline engine will kick in if you ever run out of electric driving range.

Purchase a Hybrid Vehicle at Suntrup Automotive Group!

Now that you know the hybrid car meaning, you know there are several great options for a fuel-efficient car. Before your visit to Suntrup Automotive Group, use our vehicle finder service, and then contact us for next steps.

 

More from Suntrup Automotive Group

  • How Your Credit Score Affects Car Loan Rates

    Whether you’re a first-time buyer or just want a refresher, understanding credit basics could save you thousands. In this blog, we’ll break down how credit scores directly impact car loan rates, so you can shop with confidence. Understanding Credit Score Basics Simply put, your credit score is a three-digit number that reflects how likely you…

  • How to Prepare for a Car Inspection in Missouri: Your 8-Point Checklist

    Preparing for a car inspection in Missouri can feel confusing if you’re not sure what to expect. Yet, a little know-how and some light preparation can mean the difference between passing easily or dealing with annoying delays. In this post, we’ll break down the key steps, so you’ll be ready to breeze through your inspection…

  • How Often to Change Oil: The Real Answers

    If you’ve heard that you need to change your oil every 3,000 miles, you’re not alone. That rule was once standard, but times have changed—engine technologies have improved, and modern oils perform better than ever. In this post, we’ll explore today’s guidelines on how often to change oil to help you save money, avoid unnecessary…

Suntrup Automotive Group 38.5214964, -90.3451239.