The Ultimate EV and PHEV Buyer's Guide
Electric and electrified vehicles have moved from novelty to mainstream, and shoppers across the Atlanta area, Marietta, and beyond are asking better questions than ever before about which powertrain actually fits their life.
At ALM Cars, we work with customers every day who are curious about making the switch. There is no one-size-fits-all answer, so this guide breaks down the three main types of electrified vehicles to help you figure out which one makes the most sense for you.
Battery Electric Vehicles (EVs): Fully Plugged In
A battery electric vehicle runs entirely on electricity. There is no gas tank, no oil changes, and no trips to the pump. You charge at home, at work, or at a public charging station, and that is it. For daily commuters who drive a predictable number of miles each week, the math often works out very well. Charging at home overnight is typically far cheaper than filling up with gas.
The main concern we hear from shoppers is range anxiety, which is completely understandable. Most modern EVs offer between 200 and 350 miles on a full charge, which covers the vast majority of daily driving needs. That said, long road trips do require some planning around charging stops. If you live in a suburban area of Newnan or Kennesaw and rarely drive more than 50 miles a day, an EV could be a perfect fit.
ALM Cars carries a strong selection of new EVs. The Hyundai IONIQ 6 and IONIQ 5 are two of the most talked-about electric vehicles on the market today, offering impressive range and fast-charging capability. The Kia EV6 is another excellent option with a sporty feel and a spacious interior. Browse our full new vehicle inventory to see what is currently available at a location near you.
Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs): The Best of Both Worlds
A plug-in hybrid gives you a gas engine and a battery pack that you can charge from an external outlet. You drive on electricity for shorter trips, often 20 to 50 miles depending on the model, and the gas engine picks up from there. For drivers who are not ready to give up the flexibility of a full gas tank but still want to reduce fuel costs, a PHEV is an extremely practical choice.
PHEVs are especially popular with shoppers who have longer commutes or take frequent weekend road trips. You get the electric efficiency for everyday driving without the range limitation on longer hauls. The Mazda CX-90 PHEV is a great example of a PHEV done right. It delivers the premium three-row space and refined driving experience Mazda is known for while also letting you commute mostly on electric power. The Mazda CX-70 PHEV is another standout, offering that same upscale feel in a two-row package that is ideal for smaller families or couples who still want a capable and efficient SUV.
Traditional Hybrids: Efficient Without the Plug
A standard hybrid like the Hyundai Tucson Hybrid or Kia Sportage Hybrid uses a gas engine and a small battery that charges itself through a process called regenerative braking. You never plug it in. The system manages itself automatically, and you simply enjoy better fuel economy than a traditional gas vehicle.
Hybrids are a great entry point for drivers who are curious about electrification but not ready to change how they fuel or charge their vehicle. They tend to shine in stop-and-go traffic, which makes them a smart pick for commuters dealing with Atlanta metro congestion. Ownership costs are similar to a conventional car, with no new habits required.
ALM Cars financing is available for all customers on EV, PHEV, and hybrid purchases. Use our car loan calculator to get a sense of monthly payments, or visit our Finance Center to get the process started. If you have a vehicle to trade in, find out what it is worth at our trade value tool before you shop.
Ready to Find Your Electrified Vehicle?
Whichever direction you are leaning, our team across all ALM Cars locations is here to answer questions and help you find the right fit. Stop by, give us a call, or browse our inventory online at your own pace. No pressure, just good information and a great selection waiting for you.