Mild Hybrid vs Plug-in Hybrid vs Gas/Electric Hybrid: What’s The Difference

Hybrid cars are by far some of the best used cars to buy as they are typically reliable, get amazing gas mileage, can be very cheap to insure, and are comfortable, easy cruisers for daily commutes. But you’ve probably seen a bunch of random acronyms thrown around, like PHEV, MHEV, or HEV, and thought, “I don’t know what that means… and at this point I’m afraid to ask.” We’re here to help.  

What Is a Mild Hybrid? 

Simply put, a Mild Hybrid system means a vehicle has a smaller battery pack that is usually placed between the engine and transmission. It adds overall power to the car, but isn’t enough to drive the whole vehicle by itself. Lots of times, they’re used as a starter generator for the car and operate at 48 volts or less. Modern Mercedes-Benz models have mild hybrids to add a little extra oomph to the starter, and can generate a little extra power for the motor in certain conditions. A Mild Hybrid won’t drastically change a car’s fuel efficiency, but it will help.  

What Is a Plug-In Hybrid? 

A Plug-In Hybrid, or PHEV, is where the car has two motors, a gas motor and a larger electric battery than either a Mild Hybrid or a regular Hybrid. It could operate the car, and in various driving scenarios, it does so up to certain speeds. Like an electric car, a PHEV can be driven in all-electric mode, but usually for only 10-50 miles or so. Think Chevy Volt or Toyota Prius Plug-In.  

Modern PHEVs will also utilize a charger to charge the battery. While it can be charged via the gas motor while driving, some people will opt to plug the car into a Level 1 or Level 2 charger that will top up the system until it’s full, just like a regular EV.  

Then What Is a Regular Hybrid? 

Finally, you have your standard Hybrid Electric Vehicle, or Hybrid. These cars have no charge port and don’t need to be charged manually. Instead, they operate off the car’s gas-powered engine. Because the engine and battery systems are tied together, there is a clutch that will automatically engage one motor or the other. It can also run both simultaneously, or one will generate power to the car as it’s driving while the other is handling regenerative braking to bring energy that would otherwise be lost back into the car’s battery system. In most cases, you will never feel which motor is actually running your vehicle.  

Alderman Automotive Can Help You Find the Perfect Used Hybrid 

A hybrid car, truck, or minivan is a great car to buy for the fuel economy alone. If you are ready to look at a hybrid car, Alderman Automotive has plenty of vehicles to test drive and choose from.  

Why Choose Alderman Automotive  

Alderman Automotive has all the best summer prices for trucks and SUVs, which are great for long-distance travel. At Alderman Automotive, we work tirelessly to give you the best possible price and service on every used car we sell, and our finance department will work within your monthly payment needs. Whether you are looking for a high-end luxury car or SUV, or if your budget is something under $15,000, we have a whole host of vehicles best suited for your wants and needs. Our state-of-the-art service department and helpful staff will ensure your vehicle is always in the best condition possible.