The Benefits of Buying Electric and Hybrid Vehicles

In the ever-evolving landscape of automotive technology, electric and hybrid vehicles are no longer the future—they're the present. With a surge in consumer interest and technological advancements, these eco-friendly alternatives have transitioned from niche to necessity. Reflecting this trend, the U.S. Energy Information Administration reported a significant increase in the uptake of hybrid vehicles, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, and battery electric vehicles (BEV) in 2023.

Their combined sales hit 16.3% of total new light-duty vehicle sales. The surge is no surprise given that these green vehicles promise a future where roads are quieter, our air is cleaner, and our dependency on fossil fuels is reduced.

At Patriot Chevrolet GMC of Ardmore, OK, we're at the forefront of this automotive evolution, as evidenced by a wide range of electric and hybrid vehicles. Below, we'll delve into the benefits of these vehicles. Plus, we'll give you a sneak peek at the exceptional electric and hybrid options waiting for you at Patriot Chevrolet GMC of Ardmore.

Let's break down the differences between electric vehicles (EVs), hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) to help you find your perfect match:

EVs are the purest form of electric mobility. They are powered entirely by electricity, meaning they produce zero emissions during operation. These vehicles have an electric motor and a battery pack that can be recharged from an external power source.

The absence of a traditional internal combustion engine results in a quieter, smoother ride with lower operating and maintenance costs. Electric vehicles offer rapid acceleration and swift responsiveness, thanks to the immediate torque delivered by the electric motor. 

HEVs combine a conventional internal combustion engine with an electric propulsion system. The electric motor can assist the engine during acceleration, reducing the amount of fuel needed.

Additionally, HEVs can recover energy through regenerative braking, further enhancing their efficiency. Regenerative braking recaptures energy usually lost during braking and uses it to recharge the vehicle's battery.

The main difference between fully electric vehicles and hybrids is that the latter primarily rely on their gasoline engines for movement. The electric component is mainly there to boost acceleration and harness energy during braking. Unlike electric vehicles, hybrids do not require plugging in to recharge their batteries.

PHEVs are a bridge between EVs and HEVs, offering the best of both worlds. When the battery's charge is depleted, the vehicle seamlessly switches to hybrid mode, utilizing its gasoline engine. PHEVs can be recharged via an external power source, allowing drivers to run on electricity for daily commutes while having the engine as a backup for longer journeys. 

Here are the advantages that make electric and hybrid vehicles a smart choice for the conscientious driver:

Electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) have lower emissions than gasoline-powered ones. EVs, in particular, produce zero tailpipe emissions, directly contributing to cleaner air and a healthier environment. While still using gasoline, hybrid vehicles optimize fuel use and emit fewer pollutants, making them a greener choice over traditional vehicles.

The cost to "refuel" an electric vehicle is markedly less than a conventional car's gasoline cost. On average, the cost to "fuel" an EV is comparable to paying about $1 per gallon of gasoline. This stark difference is especially notable against fluctuating gasoline prices, which have swung from below $1.50 to over $5 a gallon in the past decade.

In contrast, electricity rates have remained much more stable, ensuring EV owners enjoy predictable fuel costs. This stability makes electric vehicles an economically smart choice for drivers looking to save on fuel expenses over time.

Electric and hybrid vehicles boast lower maintenance expenses compared to traditional internal combustion engine vehicles. This is largely due to their simpler design, which eliminates the need for many moving parts in gasoline engines, such as oil changes, spark plugs, and fuel filters.

The regenerative braking system in these vehicles also reduces wear on brake pads and discs, further decreasing maintenance needs. As a result, owners of electric and hybrid vehicles can enjoy the financial benefit of fewer and less costly trips to the mechanic.

Electric motors provide instant torque, delivering smooth and swift acceleration from a standstill. This makes electric vehicles fun to drive and offers a level of performance that internal combustion engines struggle to match. Hybrids benefit from the combined power of electric motors and gasoline engines, providing a balanced driving experience that does not compromise efficiency or power.

In most states, including Oklahoma, electric and hybrid vehicle owners can benefit from various incentives designed to encourage the adoption of cleaner transportation. For instance, tax credits in Oklahoma can significantly reduce the cost of owning an eco-friendly vehicle. The Alternative Fuel Vehicle (AFV) Tax Credit provides up to $50,000 in savings for the purchase of an EV or hybrid.

Federal tax credits offer between $2,500 and $7,500 based on the vehicle’s battery size. For those installing home charging stations, the Public Service Company of Oklahoma (PSO) also offers an Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) Rebate of up to $250, making the shift to sustainable driving more affordable and convenient in Oklahoma.

The convenience of charging an electric vehicle (EV) at home overnight eliminates the hassle of stopping at gas stations, offering a significant benefit to EV owners. Using a standard 120V household outlet, you can charge your EV overnight and start each day with a fully charged battery, ready for your daily commute or errands.

For those seeking quicker charging times, upgrading to a Level 2 charger, which requires a 240V outlet, can reduce the charging period to about four hours. If home charging isn't an option, many public places, such as gas stations and parking garages, are now equipped with rapid charging stations.

These facilities offer the convenience of quickly powering up your vehicle while you're out and about. With the increasing availability of these charging stations, finding a spot to recharge your electric vehicle on the go has become more accessible and convenient.

At Patriot Chevrolet GMC of Ardmore, OK, we have a diverse range of electric and hybrid vehicles. Here are a few options awaiting you:

If the benefits of buying electric and hybrid vehicles have caught your interest, start your journey toward owning one at Patriot Chevrolet GMC in Ardmore, OK. Our Chevrolet and GMC dealership specializes in electric, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid vehicles, offering an extensive selection to meet your sustainable driving needs.

Our financing department streamlines the process of acquiring your new vehicle with a straightforward and quick online finance application. Upon submission, a finance advisor will promptly discuss your approval and options. Additionally, our service department stands ready to supply genuine Chevrolet or GMC parts, ensuring your vehicle runs at its best.

With our Patriot Pledge, you will enjoy benefits like ten years of around-the-clock roadside assistance, towing, and flat tire changes. Contact our knowledgeable team at Patriot Chevrolet GMC for a seamless transition to electric or hybrid driving.