Until recently, I didn’t know much about hybrid vehicles. Sure, I knew they were better for the environment but what are the benefits of a hybrid vehicle? After test driving the Ford C-MAX Hybrid, I started looking more into the differences between a hybrid and a non-hybrid vehicle.
What is a Hybrid Vehicle?
A hybrid vehicle uses more than one source of energy to move the vehicle. For example, an internal combustion engine and an electric motor.
Although the technology isn’t new, we’re starting to see more and more vehicles using the hybrid technology. So what are some of the benefits of hybrid vehicles?
- improved fuel economy means less trips to the gas station and more money in your wallet
- hybrid vehicle engines generate fewer emissions making them better for the environment
Just how much power does a hybrid vehicle have? We reviewed a Ford C-MAX Hybrid for a week to experience this technology for ourselves.
First of all, it is a very spacious vehicle. I was actually surprised at how much room there was inside the vehicle. When I thought of energy efficient vehicles, I always pictured something small that wouldn’t work for a family. The Ford C-MAX seats 5 comfortably. The second row also folds down flat if you need more space after a big shopping spree!
There are a lot of features on the dashboard to let you know how efficiently you are driving. What I noticed is that the fuel engine would run on acceleration but then the electric motor would power the vehicle while driving. The C-MAX Hybrid is projected to operate electrically up to 100 km/h. The dashboard is full of tools to help you maximize the vehicle’s efficiency. Watch the display grow leaves when you drive efficiently or lose leaves when you don’t.
The vehicle seems like it has a lot of power. It accelerates quickly (although you don’t want too accelerate too quickly when you’re trying to be fuel efficient) and handles well on the road.
Have you tried a hybrid vehicle? What are your favourite benefits of hybrid vehicles? Let us know in the comments below.
*Disclosure: I was provided with the Ford C-MAX for review purposes for one week. All opinions expressed here are my own.