EV & Hybrid FAQs

Sparks drivers often come to us with understandable questions about the benefits of hybrid/EV vehicles, maintenance costs, and general reliability. At Driven.cars, we can assure you that an EV or hybrid vehicle can be a great option for Carson City drivers looking to make a switch to electric or just looking to dip their toes in the water with a hybrid vehicle. We’re here with the answers to your most asked questions with this handy FAQ guide. Read on below to learn more about EV/hybrid vehicle benefits and the common questions we get at Driven.cars!

What’s the Difference Between an EV & a Hybrid?

A hybrid car has a powertrain that consists of an electric motor and a gasoline engine, so it’s very familiar to drivers who are used to gasoline-powered vehicles, while gaining great fuel savings from its electric motor. Both the motor and the engine work in conjunction to maximize your vehicle’s fuel efficiency. Generally speaking, there are three kinds of hybrid vehicles:

• Parallel Hybrid: The most common hybrid, a parallel hybrid has an electric motor and gasoline engine that are connected to the same automatic, manual, or CVT transmission. These power sources blend together to move the vehicle forward.
• Series Hybrid: In a series hybrid, the electric motor is directly paired with the transmission and is the sole power source of the vehicle. The gas engine acts as a generator for the electric motor, providing power to the gas engine.
• Plug-in Hybrid: Plug-in hybrids are similar to parallel hybrids, but they feature increased battery packs and can drive farther on electric motors alone. This means you can generally drive short distances on electricity alone, saving money on gas. If you run out of electricity during a drive, the gasoline engine will kick in.

Electric vehicles run purely on electricity and need to be recharged instead of filled with gas. They’re also great options for completely removing emissions from your daily drives and are becoming increasingly common throughout the country. Here’s what you can generally expect from an EV:

• Renewable Energy & Easy Access: It’s becoming easier and easier to own an EV. From more affordable models for everyday drivers to the large increase of charging stations nationwide, it’s easy to gain the benefits of this renewable energy-based vehicle.
• Reduced Noise Pollution: EVs severely reduce noise pollution, giving you and those around you more peace of mind.
• Great Performance: Some think EVs don’t perform as well as gas-powered vehicles. This simply isn’t true. EVs continue to advance every year, including great features like near-instantaneous torque.

Is It Expensive to Maintain an EV or Hybrid Vehicle?

No! The great news for Tahoe drivers is that it’s less expensive to maintain a hybrid or EV than you may think. Hybrids are very much comparable to traditionally gas-powered cars and may even have less maintenance costs. You can expect the same or similar kinds of maintenance for your hybrid vehicle like oil changes and normal wear and tear. Just be more mindful of your vehicle’s car battery and electric motor and stick to your vehicle’s recommended maintenance schedule.

An EV is a bit different, but likely includes less maintenance costs in comparison. In an EV, you won’t have to worry about these maintenance costs:

• Oil changes
• Belt replacements
• Gasket replacements 
• Cooling system flushes
• Spark plugs

What’s the catch? Make sure your vehicle’s software is always up to date, and make sure to keep your car battery in its best shape. Just treat your EV like you would your cell phone: don’t go out with a low battery. Your vehicle will have a reduced charge and diminishing gains over time if you constantly drive at low battery.

Are EVs or Hybrids More Reliable?

It depends on what you’re looking for and what’s available to you as a driver. EVs are incredibly reliable because they have even less maintenance compared to a hybrid, but a hybrid is still gas powered so you don’t have to worry about running out of electricity. If you’re hesitant to switch to an EV, a hybrid is the way to go. If you’re dedicated and excited about everything that involves owning an EV, you’re probably ready to make the switch to an EV.

No matter which you choose, a hybrid is comparable to a traditionally gas-powered vehicle with potentially slightly less maintenance. And an EV comes with less maintenance costs with the caveat of making sure that you care for your car battery. EVs will also likely require you to set up a charging station in your garage, so that you always have a reliable charging station.

Should I Set Up a Charging Station in My Garage?

Yes! This is highly recommended if you want to own an EV, because your home charging station will be your most common method of charging. Charging stations are becoming increasingly common. It’s better to just have a washer and dryer for your clothes, and similarly, it’s just best to have a charging station for your EV. Be sure to research all of your home charging options as there are different charge levels that will affect the rate of charge.

Have More EV/Hybrid Questions? Contact Us at Driven.cars!

Are you thinking of buying a new hybrid or EV vehicle? Contact us today online or call us at to learn more and have any of your lingering questions answered. Our trained staff can answer all of your EV/hybrid vehicle questions. Are you ready to buy your next hybrid or EV vehicle? Get pre-approved today!