Is an Electrified Car Actually an Electric Car? Is it a Good Buy 2nd Hand?

Readers ask often what the term “electrified” means. Broadly, it is a term the automotive industry uses to greenwash itself. Only a pure EV can be said to be electric, the rest are part fossil-fuelled rather than part electric.

48 hybrids, plug-in hybrids, range extender hybrids, and conventional hybrids all have an electric motor and a battery. Powertrain sizes range from a small motor for assistance only, to one that can run for short distances on electric power only. A plug-in hybrid has a slightly larger battery to run up to pure-electric 80km depending on the model. Although not all hybrids allow the petrol engine to power the drive wheels directly (Nissan E-Power), the petrol engine may still be used to charge the battery.

Even in full-EV mode (if available), the petrol engine will still cut in under hard acceleration or when the battery runs low.

ABOVE: Hybrid and Electric vehicles

The terms have confused the buying public, some of whom think electrified and electric means the same thing.

Do electrified cars make good second-hand buys?

Over time, batteries become less efficient but hybrids tend to go a little easier when recharging.
Pure EVs are able to fast charge in most instances
pure-EVs converted from classic fossil fuelled are only able to make use of AC charging
fast DC charging shortens battery life over time if used constantly

That means a slower charge could make battery last the life of the car. If buying a part-electric car, have the status of the battery back checked by a reputable technician. Having it checked by someone wanting to sell you a new car might sway their advice, but they’re obliged to deal with integrity.

Yes, 2^nd-hand hybrids can be good buys. Similarly, pure-EVs are also good buys if the battery is in decent condition. Battery status can also be checked prior to purchase and anyone who tries to tell you otherwise is lying to you.

A new hybrid battery might cost a few thousand dollars while a full electric vehicle could be $60,000 or more.

Another thing to keep in mind is that the parts that wear out are usually mechanical. Electric engines have only one moving part, and no transmission. Hybrids have a combination that requires the same maintenance that any other petrol of diesel vehicle needs.

Check log books, always. Look for regular servicing and any obvious signs of maltreatment. Above all, don’t be afraid of asking for help.

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