Sponsored Sponsored content Plug In, Fill Up, or Go All Electric? Dovi Motors Helps You Decide

As electric vehicles become more visible on local roads, so does the confusion around them. What’s the real difference between a hybrid and a plug-in hybrid? And how do EVs fit into everyday driving?

At Dovi Motors, Jesse and his team are working to clear up the misconceptions. “As soon as you say ‘hybrid,’ people assume it means plugging in,” he says. “But that’s not always the case. Each option has its own strengths, it’s really about how you drive.”

Here’s a closer look at each category.

Electric Vehicles (EVs) Are All Electric, All the Time

EVs run entirely on electricity, with no gas engine at all. With ranges now commonly between 200 and 300 miles per charge, they’re ideal for daily commutes, errands around town, and short local trips. As charging networks continue to grow, longer drives are becoming increasingly feasible, making EVs a practical option for more drivers than ever.

Why drivers love them: No gas stations. No oil changes. Just plug in overnight at home and start each morning with a full “tank.” They also deliver smooth, quiet rides with instant acceleration.

Things to consider: Long road trips require planning around charging stations. For drivers without reliable home charging, convenience can be a factor.

Hybrids Deliver Reliability and Efficiency

Hybrids have been around for nearly 20 years, combining a gas engine with an electric motor. The vehicle’s computer seamlessly switches between the two, improving fuel efficiency automatically without any extra effort from the driver. This makes hybrids a reliable choice for drivers who want better mileage without changing their routines.

Why drivers love them: No plugging in required. Just refuel at the pump as usual while enjoying major fuel savings, like the Ford Escape Hybrid’s 39 mpg compared to the gas version’s 28 mpg. Many hybrid models also offer all-wheel drive, an important feature in upstate New York winters.

Things to consider: Some drivers notice when the gas engine turns on and off, though most say it quickly becomes second nature.

Plug-In Hybrids Give You the Best of Both Worlds

Plug-in hybrids build on traditional hybrid technology with larger batteries, allowing short trips, often around 30 miles, to run entirely on electricity before the gas engine engages. This makes them a flexible choice for drivers who want the benefits of electric driving without sacrificing long-distance capability.

Why drivers love them: Daily errands and commutes can be powered purely by electricity, while longer trips can rely on gas when needed. Drivers also have more control, choosing when to run in electric or hybrid mode.

Things to consider: Many plug-in hybrids come only in front-wheel drive. To maximize benefits, you’ll need access to home or public charging, which can affect convenience depending on your routine.

How to Decide

According to Jesse, the choice really comes down to your driving habits and lifestyle:

• Frequent long-distance trips? A hybrid makes the most sense, offering the range and flexibility to handle long drives without constant stops for charging.
  
• Short, local driving with reliable home charging? An EV is ideal, providing a quiet, efficient, and low-maintenance option for daily errands and commutes.
  
• Mostly local with occasional road trips? A plug-in hybrid strikes the right balance, letting you run on electricity for short trips while still having the gas engine available for longer journeys.
  

Driving Toward the Future

Curious about going fully electric, interested in a hybrid for better efficiency, or exploring a plug-in hybrid for flexibility, Dovi Motors helps local drivers navigate the options and make the switch with confidence. Their team provides personalized guidance on range, charging, and performance, so every driver finds the right vehicle to suit their daily routines and long-term goals.Visit www.dovimotors.com to explore EV options or stop by the dealership to chat with Jesse or Luke.