DARCARS Hybrid and EV Information Center

Instead of working on solely a gas engine or just on an electric motor, a hybrid vehicle can use a combination of both at different times. In addition to the standard gas engine, you can see hybrid cars equipped with an electric motor as well and utilize regenerative braking to regain energy. To provide better fuel economy, sometimes the electric motor will power the vehicle, the gas engine may exclusively get used at times, and they can also work together.

You have various options if you’re interested in leasing or buying a hybrid or EV, including:

Mild Hybrid Cars: These vehicles have an electric motor that assists the gas engine for a more efficient performance, but the electric motor doesn’t operate on its own.

Full Hybrid Cars: A full hybrid vehicle not only has the ability for both electric and gas to work together, but these cars can travel on just electric power without help from the gas engine.

Plug-in Hybrid Cars: Plug-in hybrids are crafted with a large plug-in rechargeable battery, as well as have a gas engine. Examples of plug-in hybrids include the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, Volvo XC90 Recharge, and Kia Niro Plug-In Hybrid.

Electric Cars: If you want a car that only works off electric power, choose an EV. Some popular electric vehicles are the Volvo XC40 Recharge, Nissan LEAF®, and Ford Mustang Mach-E.

Hybrid: Hybrid cars have a gas engine, but you can also find an electric motor in hybrids that can work along with the gas engine to heighten fuel efficiency.

Plug-in Hybrid: These types of hybrid vehicles take efficiency further with a large battery that you plug in to get recharged. The gas engine comes into play when the battery loses charge, and plug-in hybrids typically provide you with a longer electric driving range than a standard hybrid.

Electric: These vehicles solely have a battery and electric motor to propel the vehicle, where the battery pack provides the electric motor with power. This is unlike the hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles that have both gas and electric.

When you choose to go hybrid, plug-in hybrid, or electric, some perks to enjoy is improved fuel efficiency, low emissions, and reduced fuel costs. Hybrids and EVs can provide you with a great performance all while reducing time at the gas pump. The advancements in hybrid and electric technology from automakers allow you to enjoy a thrilling performance, equipped with the ability to use various power modes, all while experiencing the benefit of efficiency.

If you’re wondering how to charge an electric car, you’re not alone! You will need to plug into a charging point to get your vehicle charged. There are numerous ways to get your car charged for your travels, whether that be charging at home at your designated installed home-charging station or plugging into an outlet with your charging cord, visiting a public EV charging station, or when going to a service station.

If you’re in need of a charge, you can conveniently visit a DARCARS EV Charging Station for a quick charge while you’re on-the-go! Click on one of our EV Stations to learn more!

Ford of Lanham

Kia of Lanham

Whether you’re searching for a car charger for your EV or plug-in hybrid or want to explore options before buying a car, finding out which chargers are available is a great idea to get you familiar with EV charging. Depending on how quick you want the vehicle to get a charge, you can choose what option is right for you. There are:

Level 1 Chargers: Standard charging with the slowest charging speed.

Level 2 Chargers: Common EV charging option found in homes and public charging stations.

Level 3 Chargers or Fast Chargers: The quickest charging time and can find them in some public charging stations.