Understanding the vehicles

Hybrids

Hybrids combine an engine with an electric motor, generator and battery to reduce the wasted energy associated with conventional vehicles. Current hybrids can average approximately 50 mpg.

Plug-in hybrids

Plug-in hybrids are like hybrid vehicles but have a larger capacity battery that is charged directly from the electricity grid and or renewable sources. Experimental plug-in hybrids average approximately 75 mpg but have the potential to get nearer 150 mpg. Given typical driving patterns, drivers would rarely have to buy petrol and most journeys would be electrically powered. Plug-in hybrids do not have range limitations as the engine is used when the charge runs low.

Electric

Electric cars have no engine and rely entirely on battery power. Electricity comes from the grid and or renewable sources. Driving produces zero emissions. Their range depends on the battery type and size but is currently between 40 and 250 miles.