Looking to buy a Hybrid car in 2025? From full hybrids to plug-in hybrids, there are different car options available for buyers to purchase from. This article discusses different types of hybrid cars that you can look for to reduce your carbon footprint.
From plug-in to mild hybrids, hybrid cars are getting popular because of their fuel efficiency, styling, and effective performance. As standard EVs become increasingly expensive, hybrid cars are rapidly replacing them due to buyers’ preferences. Among countries like Japan, China, and South Korea, China has emerged as the leading EV producer in recent years. Here are some top hybrid car types to watch for in 2025:
- Full Hybrids
- Plug-in Hybrid
- Mild Hybrids
- Hybrid SUVs
These types of hybrid cars are most preferred by car lovers, especially those who do not prefer standard EVs. Let’s take a detailed look at these hybrid EV types.
Full Hybrids (HEVs)
A full hybrid car uses batteries or internal combustion engines (ICEs), or a combination of both, to generate power. Compared to the mild hybrids, this type of hybrid vehicle has a stronger electric motor.
Features
There are mainly two types of full hybrid cars available in the market. Parallel hybrids can create power from the engine itself or from the battery. On the other hand, the series hybrid is solely powered by electric motors. In addition to this, this type of hybrid car does not require external charging, as it can be charged through regenerative braking.
BYD, one of the leading Chinese car brands, has made different Chinese hybrid car models, like BYD Destroyer 05, which has been very popular among customers.
Plug-In Hybrids (PHEVs)
Plug-in hybrid cars (PHEVs) are a type of hybrid car that runs on a combination of the power of a traditional gasoline engine and an electrical motor. These types of vehicles use batteries to power the electric motor or a gasoline engine to power the ICE. Here are some of the key features of plug-in hybrids.
Features
PHEV batteries can be charged through a wall outlet. The car practically runs on the power of the battery until the battery is completely drained. This type of car is ideal for shorter distances (15-60 miles) where electric-only trips are more effective. Once the battery is depleted, this car can shift to hybrid mode, using both electric and gasoline power.
BYD is the leading Chinese hybrid car manufacturer that is making quality Chinese PHEVs like BYD Qin Plus, Song L, and Seal models. BYD SEAL U DM-i is one of the upcoming PHEVs with more than 1080 KM of combined range and 6.4 L/100 km fuel consumption, making it one of the most fuel-efficient models.
Mild Hybrids (MHEVs)
In the realm of hybrid car technology, mild hybrids are a comparatively newer innovation that is also becoming popular. Here are the features of the mild hybrid electric cars (MHEVs).
Features
MHEVs cannot run solely on electric power. The car’s gasoline engine provides a supporting boost, especially during acceleration. Plus, this type of hybrid model does not need to be plugged in. Instead, the batteries of this type of vehicle are recharged by the power generated from the gasoline-driven engine. Hence, it has become an optimal choice for Chinese auto dealers to sell to customers.
Many MHEVs use a feature like regenerative braking, where power is generated when brakes are applied. Using reduced fuel, these kinds of vehicles can improve fuel economy.
Hybrid SUVs and Trucks
Hybrid SUVs and trucks are becoming very popular because of their functionality and effective spaciousness. These types of vehicles combine a traditional gasoline engine with an electric motor and battery pack, providing enhanced fuel efficiency. In recent years, more mid-size and full-size SUVs and trucks have been coming as hybrid models, as several Chinese auto dealers are selling hybrid trucks and SUVs.
Features
This type of hybrid truck and SUV has a major focus on energy efficiency, as it does not rely much on gasoline power. The battery provides energy for the car’s air conditioner and other accessories. Moreover, these models also use regenerative braking to capture the energy when the brakes are applied and use that energy to charge the car batteries. Plus, hybrid trucks have amazing torque and effective mileage, ideal for long trips.
Here is a comparison chart between different types of hybrid cars:
Hybrid Type | Charging Needed | EV Only Range | Ideal For |
Full Hybrid | No | Low-Medium | City + Highway Use |
Plug-in hybrid | Yes | Medium-High | Short trips |
Mild Hybrids | No | None | City drivers |
SUV/Truck Drivers | Depends on Models | Medium | Drivers looking for a combination of Power and Performance |
Table: Comparison Table of Different Types of Hybrid Car Models
Wrapping Up
Since hybrid cars use both conventional gasoline and an electric motor, it has become an effective way to manage fuel consumption. Moreover, these types of cars pollute the environment lesser and are cost-effective because of their responsible fuel consumption. Though different types of hybrids have different types of powertrains, the fuel consumption can vary from model to model.
Bring Home a New Hybrid Car for a More Energy-Efficient Trip!
Planning to buy a new EV? Consider bringing a hybrid car model, which will save you fuel and offer much improved performance overall.
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