With growing concerns about climate change and the environmental impact of traditional gas-powered vehicles, the automotive industry is rapidly transitioning to electric vehicles. At Hendrick Automotive Group, our dealerships have seen the shift toward this focus within the lineups of the many brands we offer in the Mecklenburg County area. Because of this, our teams have worked hard to ensure we are well-versed in our battery electric (BEV) and hybrid (HEV) options, which is good news if you've been wondering which new electric vehicles in Charlotte might be best for your needs.
When you connect with a member of our team, we'll take the time to answer any questions you might have, as well as ask a few of our own to ensure we fully understand your needs. Along with helping you determine what options might fit your driving habits and lifestyle, we can also explore financing, incentives, and much more, ensuring you feel comfortable making the shift from a gas-powered vehicle. Come by and see our BEV and HEV lineup in person.
Exploring Hybrid and Battery Electric Vehicles
While they often get lumped into the same "electric vehicle" category, not all EVs are the same. Essentially, there are two types: battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs). For the latter, you've probably heard them simply referred to as hybrid vehicles.
We'll start with BEVs first. These vehicles run entirely on electricity, which comes from rechargeable battery packs that store electrical energy. It's the battery pack that provides power to the electric motor, which drives the wheels. Additionally, regenerative braking converts energy from braking back into electricity, which helps recharge the battery. When the battery runs out, the vehicle must be recharged by connecting it to an electrical outlet or a charging station. There are many advantages to BEVs, including the following:
- Zero Emissions: BEVs don't emit CO2 or other pollutants, making them ideal for environmentally conscious drivers.
- Lower Operating Costs: Electricity is typically less expensive than gasoline, and BEVs have fewer moving parts, resulting in lower maintenance costs.
- Quiet Operation: BEVs operate almost silently because there is no internal combustion engine.
A hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) combines a conventional internal combustion engine with an electric motor and battery pack. Unlike BEVs, which run solely on electricity, HEVs alternate between using the electric motor and the gasoline engine-or both at the same time-depending on the driving conditions. This allows hybrids to maximize fuel efficiency while still using a gas engine when necessary. It also eliminates some of the anxiety new EV drivers might have regarding range and their ability to charge when needed. HEVs also use regenerative braking to recharge the battery, which increases their range.
The decision between a BEV and a HEV is based on your driving habits, environmental priorities, and access to charging stations. If you're primarily concerned with reducing emissions, a BEV is the clear winner due to its zero tailpipe emissions. HEVs, while more efficient than traditional vehicles, still use gasoline and emit some pollutants.
However, if you frequently drive long distances or do not have easy access to charging stations, a HEV may be more suitable. Hybrids combine the best of both worlds, allowing you to use electric power for short trips while the gas engine extends your range for longer trips.
We Carry a Wide Range of Electric Vehicles
As mentioned above, many automotive manufacturers are focused on building their EV lineup. With that in mind, you'll be happy to know that we carry the most popular brands, from Chevrolet to Jeep to Honda to Kia and beyond. This is significant as our inventory allows you to find the best match. It's also important to note that when electric vehicles first hit dealerships, they were-more often than not-sedans; today, you'll find trucks, off-roaders, and SUVs. The following are but some of the brands we have in our inventory for you to consider...
Chevrolet
Chevrolet has long been a player in the EV market, with a focus on providing vehicles that are budget-friendly and functional. Thanks to this focus, the brand's lineup includes compact and family-friendly models that appeal to a diverse audience. Additionally, the Chevy EV lineup combines long ranges, user-friendly tech, and a layout that is easy to use, making them suitable for everyday use, whether you're running errands in the city or taking the kids to SEA LIFE Charlotte-Concord for the day.
Jeep
Jeep is synonymous with adventure, so it's not surprising that the brand is bringing that same focus to the electric vehicle market. Jeep's EV options are designed for the outdoor enthusiast who does not want to sacrifice capability in favor of an environmentally friendly option. As a result, their EV lineup combines the brand's iconic all-terrain features with the silent, emissions-free power of electric motors.
Kia
Kia has been making waves in the EV market with stylish, reasonably priced options that do not sacrifice performance or technology. Kia electric vehicles are sleek, packed with cutting-edge features, and suitable for both individual commuters and families. Kia has long been known for offering a good balance of value and quality, and that focus extends to their EV lineup as well.
Toyota
Toyota has long been a pioneer in hybrid technology, so it makes sense that it would also be invested in the transition to fully electric vehicles. Toyota's EVs, which are known for their dependability, efficiency, and long lifespan, continue the brand's strong legacy of environmentally conscious engineering. Additionally, you'll find they've applied their years of experience with hybrid vehicles to their electric models, ensuring that Toyota EVs are efficient, user-friendly, and accessible to a diverse range of drivers across the board.
Chevrolet, Jeep, Kia, and Toyota are all strong contenders in the electric vehicle market, catering to the diverse needs of modern drivers. In addition to these brands, you'll find a number of other brands in our inventory that offer their take on the EV for you to consider. Whether you need a practical city car, an adventurous off-roader, a tech-savvy daily driver, or a dependable family vehicle, we're sure one of the EVs in our inventory will fit perfectly into your lifestyle.
Find Financing for Your Electric Vehicle
Once you've found the right BEV or HEV for your needs, our team can assist you with financing. Much like gas-powered vehicles often have rebates, electric vehicles might offer incentives, which can help them fit into your budget better. Our team can explore these with you to ensure you get the best deal. Also, you can choose to lease an electric vehicle, which might be a great option if you're still on the fence.
Leasing allows you to test the waters to see how a model fits your driving needs and lifestyle. Of course, you'll need to consider the other factors that come into play when exploring leasing. For instance, if you consistently spend a lot of time on the road beyond commuting along I-77 and back home, leasing might not be the best option. This is another area our team can assist with to make sure you have all the details you need to make an informed decision.
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Shop Our Electrified Inventory Today
Both BEVs and HEVs are significant steps toward reducing our dependence on fossil fuels and lowering greenhouse gas emissions. Battery electric vehicles (BEVs) hold the promise of a cleaner, all-electric future, whereas hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) offer an immediate, practical solution by combining electric power with the familiarity of gasoline engines.
Our teams can help you sort through our electrified options to help you find the best fit for your needs. Stop by one of our dealerships today to see our lineup in person, or check it out online to start making a list of which EVs might work for you.