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Is a hybrid car gas and electric?

My husband and I are arguing about whether a hybrid counts as an electric car or not. He says it’s an electric car, and I think it’s both gas and electric. Is a hybrid car gas and electric?

avatar
Bellina Gaskey · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Great question! Electric vehicles and hybrids are not the same thing, although the terms are often used interchangeably. Hybrid vehicles are gas and electricity operated. They run on a combination of electricity and conventional fuel.
Although some companies are looking to do hybrids with hydrogen fuel cells and electricity, right now hybrids are gas and electricity fueled.
An electric vehicle runs exclusively on electricity, using a large battery pack to power the motor that makes the wheels turn. It has no Internal Combustion Engine (ICE).
A
hybrid
has an ICE, which is what requires the gas, in addition to a battery pack that powers an electric motor. Hybrids are combinations of gas and electric vehicles.
There are lots of different models of hybrids that run differently, some with parallel engines, some with engines that charge their battery pack, and others with battery packs that need to be plugged in.
Right now, hybrids are gas and electric powered, but
Ford
has unveiled a concept car that would be powered by hydrogen fuel cells and electricity. Although just in the conceptual stage right now, it’s an exciting glimpse into where hybrids can go.
No matter whether you drive a hybrid or fully electric, you need affordable insurance.
Jerry
, the number one car insurance comparison app will help you find the best rates. You can save up to $887 a year with dozens of providers like GEICO, Progressive, Allstate, Nationwide and more.
MORE: Want To Get The Best Hybrid Around? The Honda Accord Is Your Best Bet
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