Hybrid and electric vehicles from Des Winks

Hybrid and electric engine technology has come a long way in a short space of time. With more and more manufacturers investing in such models, there’s never been a better time for you to switch from a traditional combustion engine option. At Des Winks in Scarborough, North Yorkshire, we’re delighted to be able to bring motorists an impressive lineup of low emissions models from both Volkswagen and ŠKODA, with all options able to be experienced in full at our showrooms.

Choosing to invest in an electric or hybrid vehicle means investing in the future. Not only the future of the automotive industry, but also the future of the environment. After all, hybrid and electric vehicles emit lower levels of harmful CO2 which cause damage to the environment and also contribute to health issues. In fact, all-electric models emit zero emissions at all, making them the perfect choice for the modern motorist.

There is also the added benefit of more affordable running costs. With the prices of petrol and diesel fluctuating all the time, it can prove expensive to run your vehicle. However, with an electric model, you have the benefit of being able to charge the battery direct from the power grid. Even if this takes a number of hours - most people charge overnight at home - the cost is far cheaper per mile than a regular fuel engine.

At Des Winks, we aim to help you find the perfect electric or hybrid vehicle for the best price. Get in touch with us today to find out more.

POWER

There are two types of electric power to choose from, hybrid and 100% electric. Hybrids use a combination of a combustion engine and an electric motor to power them. The battery-powered electric motor powers these cars at low speeds and then seamlessly transitions to the petrol or diesel combustion engine as you move to higher speeds or on longer journeys.

Within the hybrid range, there are two types of models, a self-charging hybrid or a plug-in hybrid. A self-charging hybrid uses regenerative braking technology alone to recharge the battery. This technology harnesses the power produced in the braking process and pumps it back into the electric battery. The second hybrid option is the plug-in hybrid vehicle or PHEV as it is often referred to. These require charging at an external source and as such, have a longer electric-only driving range.

All hybrids combine the exacting economy of an electric motor with the powerful punch of a combustion engine. The prime example being the Skoda SUPERB iV. Not only is it economical, but it is also versatile, robust and spacious. Available in either a hatchback or estate, it has three drive modes of full-electric, hybrid to maximise fuel economy, or sport for a punch of power. In electric-only mode, the range is around 37 miles, which is more than enough for most short journeys.

The other option is BEVs - or battery electric vehicles - which run solely on electric power. These cars have high-density batteries that power the electric motor for a completely emissions-free, silent drive. They provide unparalleled smoothness and unrivalled economy. Models like the exciting new e-Golf are increasing the appeal of electric cars, as one of the most popular cars on British roads becomes available in an electric-only model. So, you get all the quality and prowess of the Volkswagen Golf, but with the economy of electric power.

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vw electric cars

CHARGING

Charging an electric car is simple and easy. For convenience, most of our customers look at home charging options. It is possible to charge via a standard three-pin domestic outlet or you may wish to explore options for installing a 7kW home wall box, which will reduce the charge time considerably. There are several schemes available to help fund the installation of these charge points. Please chat with one of the Des Winks staff for more information.

Public charge points offer super-fast charging via rapid and ultra-rapid (DC) chargers. These can be found at public charging stations such as motorway services and shopping centres, and charge up to 10 times faster than a three-pin plug. This means you can charge your electric car to 80% capacity in less than 30 minutes. 

BENEFITS

The big focus of electric technology is always the fuel economy. In both hybrid and fully electric engines, the fuel economy is far superior to standard petrol or diesel engines. Volkswagen’s fast-charging batteries and super electric technology mean models like the ID.3 now offer an incredible range of up to 340 miles. And with estimated charging costs as low as 4p per mile, there are huge savings to be made.

Other benefits include reduced or nil road tax, depending on the model, and a heavily reduced carbon footprint from lower emissions in hybrid vehicles or no emissions in electric powertrains. Electric vehicles also tend to be simpler to maintain than hybrid, petrol or diesel cars because there are just three key components in the entire drivetrain and far fewer moving parts.

To find out more about the world of electric motoring, get in touch with Des Winks. We can answer all your questions and explain more about the superb electric vehicles we have on offer from Volkswagen and SKODA.

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