How to Charge a Hybrid Car Battery

Hybrid vehicles are becoming more common and more accessible to the daily driver. Waterbury drivers may be more interested in using a hybrid vehicle on their day to day commutes. Green technology is proving to be of higher interest to drivers than the standard gas powered vehicle. If you are a bit apprehensive about whether or not to make this change, gathering some facts and information about maintaining a hybrid vehicle may be of service to you. Honda of Watertown is here to discuss traditional hybrids, plug-in hybrids, and full-electric vehicles. Here’s our guide below: 

Charging a Hybrid Car Battery

Southbury drivers are all curious about the variations of hybrid vehicles and how to charge a hybrid battery. Well, charging depends on the type of hybrid you will be driving: a standard hybrid, plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) or an electric vehicle (EV). Learning the difference between the three will help you choose the vehicle that is optimal for your lifestyle:

• Standard Hybrids: This is the classic hybrid that you may recognize from the original hybrids that initiated the rise in popularity. A standard hybrid uses an electric motor and internal combustion engine simultaneously. The energy generated from braking charges the hybrid battery. A self-charging battery means no extra effort is required in your daily routine. Just driving around Torrington charges your hybrid battery. 
• Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEV): PHEVs are becoming more and more popular. Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles are similar to the standard hybrid in so far as having an electric motor and internal combustion engine. Unlike the standard hybrid, PHEVs can run on electric power alone through the electric range. In this case, the vehicle does not charge itself, so you will need to plug in to another charging source. 120-volt household outlets, a fast-charging home station, and public charging stations all can be used to charge your PHEV. 
• Electric Vehicles: Electric vehicles require recharging. They are in their own field, separate from PHEVs and hybrids. Electric vehicles don’t have gas engines. They need an external power source to charge the battery. 

How to Charge a Hybrid Car Battery: Three Methods

Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles allow Torrington drivers to save money on their short drives, but still be able to use the gas engine if they have road trips or forgot to charge. There are three methods for charging a plug-in hybrid car battery:

• Portable Charging: PHEVs are generally equipped with a portable charging cord. These chargers are compatible with the typical household 120-volt outlet. The problem with this is that it will charge at a slow rate, but it is convenient in case of emergency. 
• Fast Charging at Home: Purchasing and installing a 240-volt rapid charging station in your garage is ideal for home charging. Usually this will lead to an additional cost, but the convenience pays off in the long run because it greatly increases charging rates.
• Public Charging Stations: Looking into the public charging stations near your home will give you some freedom and security when you’re driving around Watertown. Their number is increasing rapidly.

Find Your Next Hybrid or PHEV at Honda of Watertown! 

Are you interested in the hybrid lineup that Honda of Watertown has to offer? Visit or contact us to have a chat about the hybrids available. Our experts are available to discuss all of your hybrid, PHEV, or EV needs and help you make the best decision for your lifestyle. Chat with our finance team and we’ll get you in the driver’s seat ASAP!