Article overview:

In the past decade, hybrids became popular first, then electric vehicles (EVs) for those drivers looking to get away from internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles—and now both are more common than ever on the road. But with so many options, how do you decide which is right for you?

• Hybrids vs. EVs: Learn how hybrids combine gas and electric power, while EVs run entirely on electricity.
• Fuel savings: Discover how hybrids and EVs can save you money at the pump or eliminate fuel costs altogether.
• Myth-busting: Address common misconceptions like "EVs can’t handle long trips" and "Hybrids aren’t powerful enough."
• Choosing the right fit: Find out which vehicle type matches your driving habits, budget and lifestyle.

EV ownership

First, modern drivers were introduced to hybrid cars and then electric vehicles (EVs). Today, both are more common on the road, with more models debuting each year. According to the Alliance for Automotive Innovation, in the first quarter of 2025, 9.8% of light-duty vehicle sales (what most of us drive) in the U.S. were electric. Another portion of cars sold in the first quarter of 2025 about 1.8% of the cars sold were plug-in electric hybrids per an Edmunds report.

According to AAA’s quarterly survey of both AAA Members and nonmembers, EV ownership stood at 8.9% in the 2^nd quarter of 2025, with 25- to 44-year-olds (15%) most likely to own an EV versus 55- to 64-year-olds (4%). For both demographics, 34% of respondents intended to purchase an EV as their next vehicle, and 25% of respondents indicated future intent.

With all the different makes, models and features available, some consumers find it challenging to understand the differences between hybrids and EVs. Which one is best?

The answer depends on your needs and driving habits. EVs and hybrid cars offer similar benefits, such as more efficient mileage and lower emissions than gas-only vehicles, but important distinctions exist. Here’s a rundown of the differences between electric and hybrid cars so you can decide which is best for you.

Standard hybrid cars

A hybrid car (there are also hybrid SUVs, trucks, vans and more) pairs an electric motor with a gasoline engine. Electricity is powered by a large, high-voltage battery pack, which is separate from the vehicle’s conventional 12-volt battery.

Standard hybrid cars are driven similarly to regular vehicles and don’t need to be plugged in because electrical energy is replenished through regenerative braking and the internal combustion engine recharging the battery.

Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV)

PHEVs are another type of hybrid vehicle. Like standard hybrids, they have a traction battery pack that can be recharged by braking and using ICE, but they can also be plugged into an external power source to replenish electrical stores.

With a PHEV, the gasoline engine seamlessly switches on once the electric charge has run out, making this vehicle a popular middle-ground option for drivers looking for electric capabilities without being limited to the mileage range of an electric charge. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, the average driver’s daily commute on battery power alone is 31.8 miles round trip, which means that most daily commutes would require limited, if not rare, stops at a gas station to fill up.

The basics of electric cars

EVs run on a powerful battery that allows them to operate for approximately 100 to 400 miles before needing to be recharged. As with gasoline-only cars, power efficiency depends on factors including model, year, driving conditions and driver. Here’s a list of EVs with the longest ranges in 2025.

EVs have a quick and quiet acceleration and are known for good handling on the road. At the end of your day, you can plug in your EV at home (some garage outlets may need to be adapted) and charge it overnight for the next day’s driving.

Key differences between hybrids and EVs

We’ve created a simple comparison chart that breaks down the key differences between hybrids, plug-in hybrids and EVs. Whether you’re focused on fuel savings, emissions or driving range, this chart will help you quickly see which vehicle type best suits your needs and 

Benefits of hybrids and EVs

There are many things to consider when switching from a gasoline-only car to a hybrid or electric vehicle. Here’s a look at four of the top considerations.

• Lower emissions: Compared to gasoline-only cars, hybrids and EVs offer a cleaner, greener ride by producing fewer emissions and using less gasoline and engine oil (or none, in the case of EVs). If you choose based on environmental concerns, EVs have zero tailpipe emissions.
  • Hybrids: These vehicles use a combination of gasoline and electric power, which significantly reduces fuel consumption and tailpipe emissions. For example, a standard hybrid like the Toyota Prius emits about 50% less CO2 than a comparable gas-only car.
  • EVs: Electric vehicles take it a step further by producing zero tailpipe emissions. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, EVs can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 50% compared to gas-powered cars, even when accounting for electricity generation.
  • Impact example: If you drive 12,000 miles per year, switching from a gas-powered car (averaging 24 mpg) to an EV can save approximately 4.6 metric tons of CO2 annually, which is the equivalent to planting 75 trees!

• Fuel savings that add up: Hybrids offer a higher mpg average (usually 50+ mpg) than their gas-only counterparts, which average 24.2 mpg.
  • Hybrids: With an average fuel efficiency of 50+ mpg, hybrids can cut your fuel costs in half compared to gas-only cars, which average 24.2 mpg. For example, if gas costs $4 per gallon, a hybrid driver could save over $1,000 annually on fuel.
  • EVs: Electric vehicles eliminate fuel costs entirely. The average cost to charge an EV is about $0.04 per mile, compared to $0.15 per mile for a gas-powered car. Over a year of driving 12,000 miles, that’s a savings of nearly $1,300.
  • Real-life example: A Tesla Model 3 owner charging at home might spend around $500 annually on electricity, compared to $1,800 for gas in a similar-sized sedan.
• Tax incentives and rebates: Some electric vehicles may be eligible for a federal tax credit of up to $7,500 from the U.S. Department of Energy, assuming your state is participating. There are restrictions, including which brands are eligible, so check with your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles for details.
  • Federal tax credit: Many EVs and plug-in hybrids qualify for a federal tax credit of up to $7,500, depending on the make and model. For example, popular models like the Chevrolet Bolt and Ford Mustang Mach-E are eligible for the full credit. Note: The tax credit program will expire for new and used EVs and plug-in hybrids for vehicles purchased after September 30, 2025.
  • State incentives: Some states offer additional rebates or perks. For instance, California provides up to $2,000 in rebates for EV buyers, while Colorado offers a $5,000 state tax credit.
  • HOV lane access: In some states, EV and hybrid owners can use carpool lanes even when driving solo, saving time during commutes.

• Vehicle options: There are far more options for gas-only cars than for hybrid or electric vehicles. In 2024, there were only 57 different EV models available in the U.S., from brands such as Tesla, Kia, Toyota, Volkswagen, Rivian and more.

• Advanced features: Many EVs and some hybrids offer advanced tech features, such as over-the-air software updates, autopilot capabilities and customizable driving modes.

Cost and repairs for hybrid and electric vehicles

Hybrid cars will require many of the maintenance steps that their gasoline-only counterparts do, such as oil changes, transmission checks, fluid changes, belt replacement, etc. By contrast, electric vehicles are designed with fewer moving parts, which means fewer things can go wrong.

• Hybrids: While hybrids still require traditional maintenance like oil changes and transmission checks, their electric components reduce wear and tear on the engine, leading to longer intervals between services.
• EVs: Electric vehicles don’t require oil changes, spark plug replacements or transmission repairs. The main maintenance costs are for tires, brakes and occasional battery checks.
• Cost comparison: According to AAA, the average annual maintenance cost for a gas-powered car is $792, compared to just $330 for an EV. Over five years, that’s a savings of more than $2,000.

Common misconceptions about hybrids and EVs

When it comes to hybrids and electric vehicles, there’s no shortage of myths and misconceptions. From concerns about range and power to questions about cost and convenience, these misunderstandings can make it harder to see the real benefits of these innovative vehicles.

Below, we’ll address some of the most common myths and show how hybrids and EVs are changing and becoming more capable, practical and affordable.

1. Myth: EVs can’t handle long trips.
Certain modern EV models can travel up to 400 miles on a single charge. With thousands of charging stations nationwide, long trips are possible. Approximately 512 for Lucid Air.

2. Myth: Hybrids aren’t powerful enough.
Hybrids combine gas and electric power for impressive performance. For example, the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid delivers 219 horsepower—plenty for daily drives and road trips.

3. Myth: EVs are too expensive.
While EVs may have a higher upfront cost, federal tax credits up to $7,500 and lower fuel and maintenance costs make them more affordable in the long run. Note: The tax credit program will expire for new and used EVs and plug-in hybrids for vehicles purchased after September 30, 2025.

4. Myth: Charging takes forever.
Fast-charging stations can power an EV to 80% in about 30 minutes, making them perfect for a quick coffee break on the road.

Vehicle selection

For some people, the choice between an EV and a hybrid may come down to the availability of a preferred make or model. But if you’re open to both vehicle types, consider this: If you need a daily commuter car, an electric vehicle is often the best choice because it can be plugged in at home, possibly at work (if your workplace has a charging station) or at a public charging station.

There are now nearly 5,700 public-access EV charging stations in the U.S. and more than 300 in Canada. (This information is available through the AAA Mobile app.)

However, if you plan to travel often or for long distances, select a hybrid that can efficiently use both electric and gas power to get you to your destination.

Fuel savings, environmental concerns and cost are three considerations for consumers looking at alternative-fuel vehicles. And with more brands jumping into the fray, deciding between an EV or hybrid often comes down to lifestyle and personal preference.

Choosing between a hybrid and an electric vehicle ultimately comes down to your driving habits, budget, and lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for the flexibility of a hybrid or the zero-emission benefits of an EV, both options offer a greener, more efficient way to drive. Ready to make the switch? Use tools like AAA’s Auto Buying Program, TrueCar, to explore your options and find the perfect vehicle for your needs.