Characteristics of Hybrid and Plug-In Hybrid Sports Cars
While there are differences between plug-in and hybrid sports cars, they do share some common characteristics:
- Powertrain: Although fast hybrid cars and PHEV sports cars are slightly different, they are both defined by their electric assistance. Both types combine gas engines with electric motors and batteries, but where hybrids use regenerative braking to keep the electronics charged, PHEVs need to be juiced up by plugging into an exterior outlet. They come with automatic gearboxes for laying down the power smoothly.
- Performance: These are not your run-of-the-mill commuters - sports cars are designed to thrill and provide the driver with an engaging experience. This is not just about smoking 0-60 mph times, but the pleasure the driver gets from behind the wheel. Still, outputs need to be impressive.
- Curb Weight: Due to all the gadgets added to the engine, these cars tend to be portly, and those that come with all-wheel drive are even heftier. This has been said to provide a low center of gravity and does affect the handling characteristics of the car overall.
- Price and value: Sports cars are often at the top of their range and, in addition to their sporty aspirations, are flush with features, technology, and the finest materials. Most of these are produced by revered brands that are veterans in developing sports cars, and as such, don’t come cheap. Expect a higher price than the regular models in the range.
- Fuel economy: Moving towards a greener and cleaner environment is one of the reasons hybridization has become so popular. Barring fewer emissions, the aim of a hybrid vehicle is also to spend less at the gas station. Better gas mileage figures are expected but remember that PHEV cars require charging, and this can take some time out of your schedule.
- Design language: Whether they are made with electric assistance or not, sports cars have to carry the standard of remaining desirable, and so they are usually evocatively styled and designed to appear more aggressive than lesser models. Together with their investment potential and substantial costs, these are cars that people want to own.
What to Consider Before Buying a New Hybrid Sports Car
Few things are as exciting as buying a new car, but when you’re investing in a top-end sports model, you’ll want to know you’re getting the best value for your money. Here are some pros and cons to consider before handing over your cash:
Pros
- Hybrid powertrains give better fuel economy
- Some PHEV models may qualify for tax credits in some states in the USA
- Gorgeous looks
- At least eight years of warranty cover for batteries and electric components are standard on PHEV models
- Performance figures are impressive
- Interiors are usually lavishly appointed
- Responsive handling in comparison to regular commuter vehicles
Cons
- Less aurally engaging than ICE counterparts
- Heavy curb weights affect the handling
- Usually quite pricy
- Plug-in cars have long charging times and the range may be very short in some cases
FAQs About Fast Hybrid Cars
Are sporty hybrid cars reliable?
Cars are not any more or less reliable because of the inclusion of hybrid assistance, despite what myths and urban legends suggest. Additionally, certain hybrid components are covered for at least eight years and 100,000 km under mandatory warranties. This may be even more in certain states.
What new sporty hybrids are coming out?
On the list of much-anticipated hybrid sports cars to look out, the Mercedes-AMG ONE has been in development since 2017 and has finally been put into production. Only 275 models will be made. The Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray is the automaker’s latest C8 in hybrid form and will arrive in 2023. From Mercedes-AMG, the GT 63 S E Performance is a four-door coupe that will arrive for the 2023 model year.
Should we expect all future sports cars to be hybrid or electric?
While the world moves towards electrification, we can expect more and more of this technology to be included in automotive design. While enthusiasts will likely ensure that the internal combustion engine doesn’t die out entirely, it’s safe to assume that some form of hybridization and electrification will soon become the norm.