In many ways, hybrids, all-electric vehicles, and plug-in hybrids are much like conventional vehicles. Most of the tips for driving and maintenance also apply to these vehicles as well. Still, there are some more ways you can save money on fuel for these advanced vehicles.

Use the Economy Mode

Most of the Hybrids and electric vehicles include an "economy mode" that will automatically maximize your vehicles fuel economy. This can be as simple as pressing a button on the dashboard. Remember that economy mode may affect other aspects of your car's performance, such as the acceleration rate.

Read the Owner's Manual

There is a great variety in the design of Hybrid and electric vehicles, and the way each one uses energy may be very different from one another. The owner's manual will be able to give you the best ways to maintain your vehicle, optimize fuel economy, and extend battery life.

Keep the Battery Fully Charged (EVs and Plug-in Hybrids Only)

For lithium-ion batteries, which is used in EV's, "topping of the battery" or charging a partially charged battery does not decrease a battery's energy capacity.

For plug-in hybrids, it is important to keep the battery charged because the vehicle will use electricity first, and gas second. When you charge your battery you ensure that your hybrid will use all of its battery before burning fuel.

Avoid Hard Braking

As Florida Drivers Ed would suggest, always try to look 10 seconds up the road so you can anticipate stops. Hybrids take the energy from the forward motion of the vehicle and store it in the battery as fuel. When you brake suddenly, the vehicle uses it conventional brakes which does not charge the battery.

Use Accessories Wisely

Any accessory that uses electricity should be used sparingly. This includes entertainment systems and heating and cooling units. These accessories affect the fuel economy of all cars and trucks, but have a stronger effect on electric cars and hybrids.

It is never too early to start a driver education course. The FL Driver Education system offers classes that will teach students all there is to know about the open road. From recognizing road signs, to car maintenance, to good drivers safety, Florida Drivers Ed classes will get you are your student driver ready to get behind the wheel with confidence.

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