Electric, Combustion, or Hybrid? John Grifonetti Shares Tips on Which Type of Vehicle You Should Purchase in 2021

If you’re in the market for new wheels, you might automatically start searching for gasoline or diesel vehicles. And while the combustion engine has been a reliable choice for decades, there are other factors that can make the choice a bit more challenging, says John Grifonetti, an entrepreneur and car dealership owner in Old Tappan, New Jersey.

More specifically, hybrid and electric vehicles are surging in popularity and should be considered in the overall buying decision. However, while they come with their advantages, there are also still some disadvantages. Here’s some car advice and answers to common questions from Mr. Grifonetti to help guide your shopping in 2021.

Is Gasoline Still King?

The short answer to this question, says John Grifonetti, is yes — at least for now. The biggest reason is due to the fact that there is so much existing infrastructure for combustion engine vehicles (more specifically, gas stations).

That means less driving around to find a charging station for an electric vehicle, which could be few and far between depending on your location. For that reason, gas vehicles still win as people crave convenience and that won’t change anytime soon.

While internal combustion engines have made strides in terms of fewer emissions that can harm the environment, the price of fuel — while still relatively low — will start to climb in 2021 depending on COVID-19 recovery.

What About a Hybrid Vehicle?

If you’re set on moving partially or fully away from combustion engines, then it comes down to electric or hybrid — the latter that offers the best of both worlds, says John Grifonetti of Old Tappan, New Jersey.

Hybrid vehicles have gained traction in the industry over the past several years, but despite this, they still often carry higher price tags than their gas-powered counterparts. Unless car dealerships are offering a sparkling lease deal on a hybrid, most people will opt for the standard model. However, aside from some environmental benefits, hybrids may cost you less in maintenance over the life of the vehicle.

If you’re willing to spend more money upfront for a hybrid, you will have to drive a considerable number of miles to see any real savings if gas remains inexpensive. In fact, it could take five years or more depending on the make and model ,to save enough money at the pump to justify the extra cost of the vehicle.

Hybrid Versus Electric Vehicles

So fully electric or not? When it comes to hybrids, it makes sense cost-wise versus an electric vehicle if you have a relatively short commute. That’s because you may not have to engage the internal combustion engine much or at all in this case, saving fuel, explains John Grifonetti.

There is a 100% chance you won’t need any fossil fuel with an electric vehicle, though they generally cost more up-front. However, while hybrids are reliable, they’re likely to cost you more for maintenance down the road due to their internal combustion components.

Final Thoughts From John Grifonetti

For 2021, the bottom line is convenience and saving money — and usually the combustion engine will win on those points.

However, as more charging stations are installed across the country to serve electric car owners, this could change fairly soon. Many customers at car dealerships are saying they will consider a hybrid of electric vehicle when they make their next purchase.

In fact, John Grifonetti expects electric cars to dominate the market in as early as 10 years from now.