By Gwen Kautz, general manager of Dawson Public Power District
In the past few years, electric vehicles (EVs) have gained popularity. However, it's important to recognize the significant benefits that plug-in hybrids also bring. There are three main types of hybrid vehicles: full hybrids, mild hybrids, and plug-in hybrids. I recently purchased a hybrid vehicle and began my pursuit to understand how I could maximize my fuel mileage. This article explores the advantages of hybrids, offering a perspective for those seeking eco-friendly transportation.
My car is labeled a “mild” hybrid, but it can also be plugged in. As the name suggests, a mild hybrid system is not designed to solely power the vehicle using electric energy. Its primary function is to augment the gasoline engine, especially during acceleration from a standstill. Additionally, it aids in alleviating the strain on the gasoline engine caused by power-intensive features like air conditioning. Some mild hybrids use external charging; but, like mine, also replenish the battery through a combination of power generated by the gasoline engine and energy recaptured during braking, a process known as regenerative braking.
FUEL EFFICIENCY
One of the primary benefits of hybrids is their impressive fuel efficiency, especially in town. By seamlessly switching between the internal combustion engine and electric motor, hybrids optimize fuel consumption. This dual-power approach enhances mileage, making hybrids an ideal option for those seeking to reduce their carbon footprint without compromising on driving range. Let’s face it, in rural Nebraska the downside of a full-on EV would be its range.
For my personal hybrid, I can manually switch from hybrid driving to electric or to sport. The electric range on a fully charged battery would allow me to drive only 20 miles. Sport mode uses only the internal combustion engine. When I use sport mode, my fuel mileage is approximately 28-30 mpg. If I engage the hybrid function, the fuel mileage ranges around 40 mpg.
COST SAVINGS
Hybrids offer cost savings in multiple ways. The enhanced fuel efficiency translates to fewer trips to the gas station, resulting in decreased fuel expenses. Additionally, incentives and tax breaks for hybrid owners might be available, making the initial purchase more economical. The regenerative braking system in hybrids captures energy during deceleration, further improving overall efficiency and potentially lowering maintenance costs.
VERSATILITY
Hybrids provide a flexible driving experience, seamlessly transitioning between electric and gasoline power. This versatility eliminates the "range anxiety" often associated with fully electric vehicles. Hybrids can be refueled at traditional gas stations, providing convenience without the need for extensive charging infrastructure (or the time it takes to charge an EV).
SMOOTH DRIVING EXPERIENCE
The combination of internal combustion engines and electric motors in hybrids delivers a smooth and quiet driving experience. Electric power is utilized during low-speed, urban driving, reducing noise pollution and enhancing driver comfort. The automatic transition between power sources ensures a continuous and enjoyable driving experience. There have been several times that I have put my car in park and couldn’t tell it was still running. I finally set the car up to turn itself off when I opened the driver’s door.
TRANSITION HORIZONS
I knew a pure EV was not for me. Range anxiety is real. Charging while on the road is an issue. For individuals not ready to fully embrace electric vehicles, hybrids provide a transitional path to environmentally friendly driving. Owners of hybrids can ease into eco-friendly features while maintaining the familiarity of traditional gasoline-powered vehicles.
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
While EVs are praised for producing zero emissions during operation, it's important to consider the environmental effects of making them. The manufacturing of EVs requires extracting and processing materials like lithium and cobalt, causing environmental issues. Hybrids, with a less resource-intensive production process, offer a more balanced approach to reducing the overall carbon footprint.
INFRASTRUCTURE CHALLENGE
While electric grid systems can manage EV charging, public power districts/EV owners might need to consider upgrades (bigger transformer for example). It’s not a matter of not having enough power so long as baseload generation plants are operational. Nebraska has seen an unprecedented growth in planned energy loads. This is a very complex issue and will take long range planning.
Adding a private charger to your residential account is affordable because there are currently available rebates. Check with your rural electric utility to find out what incentives are currently available.
IN SUMMARY…
If it’s time to buy a car/SUV, I hope you’ll consider a hybrid. They offer better fuel efficiency, lower emissions, and have become affordable. Choosing a hybrid is a smart and eco-friendly option but it is a personal choice. Recognizing these advantages helps us make well-informed decisions that balance environmental concerns, address volatile gas prices, with practical driving needs in the changing automotive world.
Sources: Car Edge Electric podcast; Patrick George, InsideEVs.com; Plug-in 4 More podcast; WSJ article: “How to Get the Biggest Tax Breaks” by Ashlea Eberling; my car manual, and my own personal experience.