EV and Hybrid Hub
EV and Hybrids at Nissan Of Duarte
When shopping for a new Nissan, it is essential to have a basic understanding of your choices for your new vehicle. In California, there are many benefits to owning a hybrid or electric vehicle. But first, you will want to have a bit of information about how these vehicles function and their power source or sources. Then, you will be able to make a well-informed decision and purchase the new Nissan that is ideal for you.
What Is A Hybrid?
Most buyers are shocked to learn that a hybrid vehicle is entirely fueled by gasoline but uses an electric motor to assist with propulsion or reduce fuel consumption. Some of the time, only the gasoline motor is functioning. But other times, both engines are working in unison. The electric motor works as a generator when you apply the brakes. The energy generated is stored in a small battery to be used the next time to accelerate from a stop. This reduces the gasoline needed to start moving your vehicle.
Plug-In Hybrids
Plug-in hybrids are very much like the hybrids mentioned above. Only the alternate power is on a much larger scale. The batteries are much larger and must be charged from an external source. The battery can power the vehicle, but the gas engine takes over the propulsion as it runs down. This system also uses regenerative braking for a small amount of recharging. The simple rule is that if you can plug in and gas up your vehicle, it is a plug-in hybrid.
What Is an Electric Vehicle?
Electric vehicles use only a large battery for power. The electric motor in these vehicles is large enough to provide all of the propulsion needed for operation, even at highway speeds. The batteries on electric vehicles need to be charged either from a fast-charging DC power station or at home from an AC power supply. An example of an all-electric car is the Nissan Leaf.
What to Consider When Going Green
A hybrid is a great way to reduce the amount of gasoline you are regularly using. It also reduces the pollutants your vehicle is emitting. But you will still be stopping for gas periodically and providing the routine care required by a combustion engine, such as oil changes.
Going all-electric will eliminate your need to ever stop for a tank of gas. And you will not be concerned with vehicle emission or oil changes. But you will need to figure out how you will be recharging your vehicle’s batteries. Many public charging stations offer a DC fast charge that provides a significant charge in minutes rather than hours. But for charging at home on an AC system, the charge time can require eight to ten hours for a full charge.
Visit the automotive experts at Nissan of Duarte to learn more about the benefits of owning an environmentally friendly Nissan. The benefits keep getting better, from lower operating costs to free parking in cities like Pasadena and uses of the HOV lane.