What are the pros of plug-in hybrids? Toyota of Orlando answers.

There is a lot of buzz on hybrids recently – it’s even predicted to be the new standard of the automotive industry for economy cars. People are looking for more eco-friendly, yet cost-effective, ways to drive – so it makes sense that hybrids and plug-in hybrids are becoming more mainstream options for drivers. But, is such a big question “Do you need to charge a hybrid car?” and the answer is yes and no – it depends on the multiple types of hybrid cars. But enough of that, our Orlando Toyota dealership is here to tell if plug-in hybrids are worth it…or not!

Are plug-in hybrids worth it?

A plug-in hybrid is a vehicle that has both hybrid and electric car capabilities. So, you can run the vehicle on an electric charge for a limited range – usually less than 100 miles – and after that, you switch over to hybrid capabilities.

• First off, you may be saving some of your money in the long run and short run because you may be eligible for tax benefits and rebates for driving a plug-in hybrid vehicle. It determines in which state you reside – just ask your accountant!
• In order to utilize the electric battery power and run on that solely, you do have to plug these hybrids in to charge up (similar to how you have to charge an electric car). You can charge at home or at a public charging station.
• Even though they’re not fully electric, plug-in hybrids save a ton of money on gas. You can utilize electric power until it’s gone and then switch over to hybrid performance, which still outperforms traditional gasoline vehicles in terms of fuel efficiency. Plug-in cars use between 30-60% less fuel than traditional gasoline-powered cars.

Right now Toyota has two plug-in hybrid options – the Toyota RAV4 Prime and the Toyota Prius Prime, which was just redesigned for the 2023 model year.

So are plug-in hybrids worth it for you?

Which is better, a hybrid or a plug-in hybrid? Before you can decide if a plug-in hybrid is worth it for your own personal drive time, you should ask yourself a couple of questions. Here’s what we recommend thinking about before signing the dotted line:

Are you able to charge it??

Do I have to charge my plug-in hybrid on a routine basis? Well, the short answer is no – but, just to clarify, you don’t have to because you have the hybrid power on your side. But, it doesn't make sense to have a plug-in hybrid without charging it, as it saves you more money on gas in the long run. Just make sure you have a place to charge at home or that you’re ready to go to public charging stations.

Do you have EV range anxiety??

EV range anxiety is a real thing – and if you don’t know what it is, it’s when you’re worried about driving an electric car because you’re concerned about running out of charge and not being able to find a charging station. Don’t worry, you don’t have to worry about that because a plug-in hybrid also has regular hybrid capabilities and you can just use your gas when you run out of electric charge.

Will your budget accommodate it??

Compared to traditional gasoline-powered cars and regular hybrids, plug-in hybrids tend to cost a little more upfront. But, you’ll definitely save yourself a couple of trips and a lot of bucks on gas. But, you want to comfortable with the budget before you buy and see how our Orlando sales specialists can help you find the right one within your budget.?

Ready to learn more about plug-in hybrids and if they’re worth it??

Call Toyota of Orlando today at (407) 298-4500 or stop by. We’re open seven days a week at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall. You can also see ALL of our inventory online 24 hours a day!