How to Charge a Plug-in Hybrid Car

As more hybrid cars make their appearance around Pittsburgh, you might have heard someone ask how to charge a hybrid car. Many newcomers often wonder what charging a hybrid car battery entails. At the same time, the introduction of plug-in hybrid vehicles, or PHEVs, has only complicated matters. Some Carnegie drivers have asked, “How often should you charge a PHEV?” as well. So, what does charging a hybrid car battery involve? Read on to learn more!

Charging a Hybrid Car Battery: Hybrid vs. Plug-in Hybrid vs. Electric

Before we get into how to charge a hybrid car battery, let’s cover some definitions. Below, you can learn more about hybrid vs. electric vs. plug-in hybrid models:

• Standard Hybrid Cars: These vehicles have been around for many years, with automakers improving upon existing technologies and features for a more efficient ride. Wondering how to charge a hybrid car? It’s fairly straightforward. Using an electric motor in conjunction with an internal combustion engine, the battery self-charges as you drive in Moon Township. As a result, you won’t have to worry about plugging into an external charging station.
• Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles: The interest in hybrid cars has led to the introduction of the PHEV segment. Much like a standard hybrid, PHEVs use an electric motor and internal combustion engine. How often should you charge a PHEV? It depends on how much you drive. As PHEV models can’t self-charge, you’ll have to plug into an external power source at a public charging station, a 120-volt household outlet, or a fast-charging home station.
• Electric Vehicle: Separate from the hybrid and plug-in hybrid, electric vehicles are completely different. They have no gas engine — only an electric motor. Similar to PHEVs, they need to be plugged into an external power source to charge the battery.

How to Charge a Plug-In Hybrid Car Battery: Three Methods

Many Pittsburgh drivers are looking to plug in hybrid vehicles as their middle ground between electric vehicles and traditional gas-powered cars. They like the option of driving around town on full electric power, but prefer the option of a gas engine for longer road trips outside of Aliquippa. How often should you charge a PHEV and what are its charging methods? Let’s find out:

• Portable Charging: Your PHEV will come standard with a portable charging cord — most of which are compatible with any household-style 120-volt outlet. These are convenient for charging overnight, so you have plenty of power the next day.
• Fast Home Charging: You can have a 240-volt fast charging station installed in your garage for convenient home charging. These come at an added cost, yet they are usually worth the investment, as they recharge at a much faster rate at home.
• Public Charging Station: If you have to, a public charging station is ideal for charging your PHEV. While they’re not as common as gas stations in Moon Township, these are growing at a steady rate across the country.

Find the Hybrid or PHEV for You at Moon Township Hyundai!

Now that you know how to charge a hybrid car, check out what Moon Township Hyundai has in store for you in our hybrid inventory. Also, be sure to review our new vehicle specials and see if your preferred hybrid or plug-in hybrid vehicle trim level is in stock. Whether you’re test-driving a PHEV in Moon Township, or learning about the Hyundai navigation system, Moon Township Hyundai is your one-stop shop for all things Hyundai. See you shortly!