Currently, the range of powertrains available for buyers in the market is quite wide. There are plug-in hybrids, gas-electric, pure electrics, hybrids, as well as fuel-cell cars such as the Toyota Mirai. Every purchaser has the freedom of choosing a car that suits them and their families. However, statistics have shown that Toyota Prius leads the pack as the model that is most preferred by consumers. There are some misconceptions that usually hold back some consumers from purchasing electric or hybrid vehicles.
The first one is that electric and hybrid cars are more costly in comparison to gasoline-powered vehicles. This isn’t true because there are some electric cars that do not fall within the premium-price range. For instance, Mitsubishi’s Smart For Two and iMiEV have a price range that falls within the mid-twenty thousands. It has also been noted that the cost difference between internal combustion and electric vehicles is going down gradually with that of gas-fueled models rising.
Another myth that has misled many consumers is that the batteries for hybrids and electric cars don’t last for more than three years. This is a false assumption since the electric and hybrid car batteries are made to last an equal time as the vehicles themselves, with some even lasting longer. Another myth to take note of is that hybrids and other green cars are only suitable for cities and for summers. Despite the fact that electric cars tend take a range hit during the winter season when the battery capacity is reduced by low temperatures, they remain a great option for customers or drivers residing in colder regions. It has been reported that electric vehicles utilize their energy better that gasoline-fueled cars.
Most people also hold the misconception that they can’t drive these cars for a distance exceeding 60 miles without having to plug them in. This is a fallacy since improvements that have been made in the battery technology have played a key role in improving electric car performance. An increasing number of electric vehicles can go for even up to 186 miles in poor conditions. Another misconception people should be aware of is that hybrids and electrics cause more pollution. One of the most controversial topics has been regarding the greenness of the plug-in cars. The fact is that all electric cars are more environmental friendly compared to their internal combustion counterparts. From the pollution reduction point of view, plug-in cars are still at the forefront. Finally, while most people assume that green cars are poor performers, this isn’t factual.