What is a Petrol Hybrid Car?

More and more drivers are thinking about switching to hybrid cars as a way to save fuel and help the environment. But many people are still unsure exactly what a petrol hybrid is, or how it works. In this guide, from Motor City Plymouth, we’ll explain what a petrol hybrid car is, how it works, and why you might want one.

What is a Petrol Hybrid Car?

So, what is a petrol hybrid car? Put simply, it’s a vehicle that uses both a petrol engine and an electric motor to power the wheels.

• Sometimes it runs just on petrol.
   

• Other times, it uses the electric motor on its own.
   

• Or it might use both petrol and electric together for extra power.
   

This clever system helps you use less fuel and reduce emissions. It also means the car can switch between petrol and electric power depending on your speed, driving style, and the road you’re on.

What Does Petrol Hybrid Mean?

You might be wondering: what does petrol hybrid mean in more detail?

It means the car has two types of power working together:

• A traditional petrol engine.
   

• An electric motor powered by a battery.
   

Unlike fully electric cars, you don’t always have to plug a petrol hybrid in to charge it. Many hybrids are “self-charging,” which means the battery charges itself while you drive, thanks to the engine and a system called regenerative braking.

There are different types of hybrids:

• Self-charging hybrids – no need to plug in. The battery charges as you drive.
   

• Plug-in hybrids – you can plug these in to charge and drive further on electric power alone.
   

So, when you ask what is petrol hybrid, it’s really a smart mix of petrol power and electric help to make your driving more efficient.

Why Choose a Petrol Hybrid?

There are some great reasons to choose a petrol hybrid:

• Fuel savings – hybrids often use less petrol, especially in city traffic.
   

• Lower emissions – good for the planet and sometimes your wallet.
   

• Smooth driving – electric motors make stop-start driving quieter and calmer.
   

• Possible savings on road tax – and benefits in low-emission zones in some cities.
   

What Happens When a Hybrid Car Runs Out of Petrol?

People often ask, what happens when a hybrid car runs out of petrol?

• Some hybrids can drive a short distance on electric power alone.
   

• But most petrol hybrids still need the petrol engine to work properly, especially at higher speeds or over longer distances.
   

• If you run out of petrol completely, the car might stop working until you refill.
   

So it’s always best to refuel as soon as the warning light comes on!

Is a Petrol Hybrid Right for You?

Petrol hybrids are brilliant if you:

• Do a lot of city or stop-start driving.
   

• Want to save on fuel and cut emissions.
   

But they might not be the best choice if you drive lots of long motorway journeys every day.

At Motor City Plymouth, we have a great range of used petrol hybrid cars to help you find the perfect fit for your lifestyle.

Ready to Explore Petrol Hybrids?

Interested in finding out more about what a petrol hybrid is and how it could work for you? Visit Motor City Plymouth today to browse our hybrid cars. Pop into our showroom or explore our stock online. 

We’re always happy to offer expert advice and arrange a test drive so you can experience a petrol hybrid for yourself!