Learn about the Hybrid and Electric Luxury Vehicles in Lake Bluff, IL
With the ongoing threat of global warming and the financial strain of unstable gas prices, it's no wonder that many Lake Bluff, IL drivers are switching to hybrid or electric vehicles (EVs). Knauz Automotive Group is your electric vehicle destination, with new and used hybrids and EVs from luxury brands such as Mercedes-Benz and BMW.
Differences Between Hybrids, Plug-In Hybrids, and Fully Electric Vehicles
Fully electric vehicles (EVs) do not use gas at all. EVs are powered by lithium-ion batteries and electric motors, so they release zero emissions. People in Kenosha, WI will appreciate that EVs have carbon-neutral powertrains that require less maintenance than gas-powered engines. You may also qualify for income tax credits by driving an electric car.
A difference between hybrid and plug-in hybrid models is how their battery is charged. Lake Forest, IL drivers can charge a hybrid or mild hybrid model through regenerative braking. However, plug-in hybrids must have their battery connected to an external power source to fully recharge. Unlike a hybrid or mild-hybrid vehicle, plug-in hybrid models can travel a few miles on solely electric power.
With a regular hybrid vehicle, the battery only provides enough power for driving the car at slower speeds, such as you would in residential or shopping areas in Gurnee, IL. Otherwise, the vehicle runs on gas. Mild hybrid cars only use their battery to enhance fuel economy and boost acceleration. Plug-in hybrid models have a larger battery that's the primary power source for the car. When the battery runs down, the internal combustion engine takes over.
EV, Hybrid, and Mild Hybrid BMW & Mercedes-Benz Vehicles We Sell in Lake Bluff, IL
Mercedes-Benz Hybrid and Mild Hybrid Vehicles
The new Mercedes-Benz GLC comes standard with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and a 48-volt mild-hybrid system that combine to produce 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. Frugal Highwood, IL drivers will like that the GLC SUV earns 25 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway when equipped with rear-wheel drive. If you'd prefer a mild-hybrid sedan, try the new Mercedes-Benz S 500 or S 580. The base S 500 returns 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.
Mercedes-Benz EVs
If you'd rather avoid the fuel pump completely, check out the new Mercedes-Benz EQ fully electric models. The Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV is an electric vehicle with a lavish interior and spry acceleration. People in Lake Bluff, IL will appreciate its 279-mile driving range when fully charged. If you're partial to cars, get the new Mercedes-Benz EQS sedan. This large EV has an opulent cabin with an available 56-inch-wide Hyperscreen. Gurnee, IL drivers will like its brisk acceleration and 340-mile driving range. Other new Mercedes-Benz EVs you may find at our dealership include the Mercedes-Benz EQB, EQE sedan, and EQS SUV.
BMW Mild Hybrid and Hybrid Vehicles
Many new BMW vehicles are available with hybrid or mild hybrid powertrains, including the 3 Series, 5 Series, 6 Series, and 7 Series cars, as well as SAVs such as the X3, X4, X5, X6 and X7. The BMW XM is a plug-in hybrid SAV with punchy acceleration that's ideal for keeping up with traffic in Lake Forest, IL. It can also travel 30 miles on battery power alone.
BMW EVs
If you're in the market for a BMW vehicle that's completely carbon-neutral, we suggest the new BMW iX. This electric SAV has a tastefully appointed interior and a cushioned ride and handling. Kenosha, WI drivers will appreciate its 324-mile driving range on a single charge.
If you're more of a car person, we recommend the new BMW i4. Based on the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe, the i4 has a luxe, roomy cabin with a futuristic widescreen infotainment system. When properly equipped, it has a 301-mile driving range when fully charged. People in Highwood, IL will like its deft handling and gentle ride. Other BMW EVs you'll see at Knauz Automotive Group include the BMW i5 and BMW i7.
Benefits of Plugging In
96%
Owning an EV
Understanding Charging
Charging times vary depending of the type of charger used.
Level 1 chargers use a standard household outlet and charge about 2-5 miles of range per hour, making Level 1 a good choice for plugin hybrid vehicles but not battery electric vehicles.
Level 2 chargers can be installed at your home by a professional electrician and charge about 10-20 miles of range per hour. A good choice for any EV when charging overnight or all-day is possible.
Level 3 fast chargers are the most efficient and can be found at commercial locations. Level 3 can charge about 60-80 miles of range in about 20 minutes, making it a good choice for any EV when a quick charge is needed on the go.
Charging from Home
For plugin hybrid vehicles a standard outlet (Level 1) will be enough for overnight charging. For battery electric vehicles, a Level 2 charger will require professional installation by a licensed electrician. If you live in an apartment or condo, consider talking with the property owner about installing a charger or use a nearby public charger. Talk to our sales staff to find out more about charging from home.
Battery Care
Most batteries will last between 100,000 and 200,000 miles when properly cared for. With battery technology continually advancing, that number will continue to increase. If you can keep your battery between 20% and 80% charged most days and avoid extremely hot temperatures, you can expect your maintenance to be minimal.
Charging Stations Near Knauz Automotive Group
Test Drive a Hybrid or Electric Vehicle at Knauz Automotive Group
These are just a few of the hybrid and electric luxury vehicles available at Knauz Automotive Group, your electric vehicle destination. Visit our dealership in Lake Bluff, IL and test drive an electrified model today.
Common Questions
A federal tax credit of $7,500 is available on most EV models. Depending on where you live, state and local rebates and incentives may also be available. Check with your sales associate to find out if the model is eligible for rebates and incentives.
Other advantages of owning an EV include:
- Eligible EVs may also qualify for HOV lane access, which are normally restricted to vehicles with multiple passengers.
- Many electric companies offer lower rates based on the time of use. With EVs, you can save money by charging during off-peak times.
- If you're able to charge from work or home, there's usually no need to stop to refuel like you would in a gas-powered vehicle.
- EVs produce zero tail-pipe emissions resulting in cleaner air and better health.
This will vary depending on the local price of electricity and gas and where you are charging (at home or public charger), but most EV owners can expect to save on fuel cost. A recent Consumer Reports study found the “typical EV owner who does most of their fueling at home can expect to save an average of $800 to $1,000 a year on fueling costs over an equivalent gasoline-powered car.”
Source: Benjamin Preston. October 08, 2020. EVs Offer Big Savings Over Traditional Gas-Powered Cars.
https://www.consumerreports.org/hybrids-evs/evs-offer-big-savings-over-traditional-gas-powered-cars/A recent Consumer Reports study found “maintenance and repair costs for EVs are significantly lower over the life of the vehicle – about half – than for gasoline–powered vehicles, which require regular fluid changes and are more mechanically complex. The average dollar savings over the lifetime of the vehicle is about $4,600.”
Source: Benjamin Preston. October 08, 2020. EVs Offer Big Savings Over Traditional Gas-Powered Cars.
https://www.consumerreports.org/hybrids-evs/evs-offer-big-savings-over-traditional-gas-powered-cars/Gas powered vehicles offer a range of 300-400mi. Battery electric vehicles offer a median range of 250mi. For EV owners who charge at home, this is more than enough for daily use. For longer drives beyond the range of your vehicle, check a public charger map for charger availability along your route.
- Level 1 chargers use a standard household outlet and charge about 2-5 miles of range per hour, making Level 1 a good choice for plugin hybrid vehicles but not battery electric vehicles.
- Level 2 chargers can be installed at your home by a professional electrician and charge about 10-20 miles of range per hour. A good choice for any EV when charging overnight or all-day is possible.
- Level 3 fast chargers are the most efficient and can be found at commercial locations. Level 3 can charge about 60-80 miles of range in about 20 minutes, making it a good choice for any EV when a quick charge is needed on the go.
Yes, Level 1 and Level 2 chargers can be used at home. In fact, the standard 120V outlet supports a Level 1 charger. Level 2 chargers require 240V and can be installed by a licensed electrician. If you do not own your home, you may need to work with your property owner to install a Level 2 charger.
Most batteries will last between 100,000 and 200,000 miles when properly cared for. With battery technology continually advancing, that number should continue to increase.
Ready to Shop?
EV or gas-powered hybrid, we have you covered.
How Can We Help?
* Indicates a required field