There are so many reasons to buy Kia plug-in hybrids and electric cars. Chief among them is their fuel economy. At Folsom Lake Kia, we've seen a surge in the number of shoppers who are looking for a car that conserves fuel and leaves a smaller carbon footprint for future generations. Our Honda dealers are always happy to help answer any questions customers have about our eco-friendly cars. Lately, the most frequent question we've received is this: What's the difference between a hybrid and an electric car?

What is an Electric Car?

When you visit our Kia hybrid dealership, our associates can explain these differences to you. The primary difference between the two vehicle types is that electric cars don't use any gasoline at all. Rather, electric cars are powered by batteries or fuel cells, which are both charged with electricity. Since electric cars don't use gas, they don't release any emissions. This makes electric cars the greenest option available. If you think an electric car is right for you, check out the Kia Niro EV. This electric SUV provides the best of both worlds, since it's incredibly fuel-efficient, but it has a larger, more rugged design that's great for families and outdoorsy types.

What is a Plug-In Hybrid Car?

On the other hand, plug-in hybrids are powered by a combination of gas and an electric motor. This system allows the car to consume less fuel than traditional Kia sedans. The fact that these hybrids use gas also means that you'll never be stranded if the electric motor loses its charge. Plug-in hybrids are also great because they typically have a much longer driving range than other green alternatives. If you're interested in hybrid cars, we recommend the Kia Optima plug-in hybrid sedan. This car is a great option for urban drivers who want something compact and easy to maneuver through dense traffic. If you'd prefer something larger, check out the Kia Niro plug-in hybrid SUV.

If you'd like to learn more about how plug-in hybrids compare to electric cars, visit us at Folsom Lake Kia. Our friendly Kia dealers will be happy to any lingering questions. We can also put you behind the wheel of any of our Kia models for a test drive.