Hybrid Vehicle FAQs

What is a Hybrid?
A gasoline/electric hybrid (the most common type) is a vehicle with both electric and gasoline combustion systems for powering the car. The electric power is stored in batteries, which are recharged while driving, reducing the need for gasoline-generated power.

How do the batteries recharge?
The batteries in a hybrid vehicle are primarily recharged by a process called "regenerative braking." When the driver applies the brakes, the electric motor essentially runs in reverse - rather than consuming power to propel the car, it acts like a generator and produces electrical energy. The batteries then capture and store this energy. When there is not sufficient braking to recharge the batteries, the gasoline engine takes up the slack and produces electrical power to charge them while the car is operating on gasoline-engine power.

Do I have to plug in a hybrid?
Regular hybrids do not need to be plugged in. The batteries are charged while driving. Some manufacturers offer plug-in hybrids - these vehicles have more powerful batteries than other hybrids, and can be charged by plugging in to standard household current.

Are hybrids safe?
Yes. Hybrids are just as safe to drive as traditional gasoline-powered vehicles. They are built to the same crash specifications as other cars. All high-voltage systems are carefully sealed in vividly-colored, easily visible casings, and are placed where they are not easily (or accidentally) accessible to the occupants of the vehicle.

Do hybrids cost more to maintain than a traditional car?
In most cases, no. Hybrids are still fairly new to the market, but thus far in their history, they have proven to have comparable - even slightly lower - maintenance costs compared to traditional vehicles. Aside from the electric drive motor and large battery packs, all other systems are very similar to traditional cars.

Is it expensive to replace hybrid batteries?
The short answer is "Yes." It can cost roughly $3,000 to replace the batteries.

How long do the batteries last?
If the vehicle is properly maintained, the batteries are not abused, and the charging system works properly, the batteries can last virtually the entire life of the vehicle.