Used Hybrid & Electric Vehicles | Salem, OR
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Find your Electric Vehicle or Plug-in Electric Hybrid in Salem, OR

When it comes to selecting a fuel-efficient vehicle, nothing beats a hybrid or electric vehicle, but with all the different options that are available today, what do they all mean? Here is a quick guide on what each type of alternative fuel vehicle will do:
- Electric Vehicle (EV): An all-electric vehicle runs completely on electricity stored in an onboard battery pack with no gasoline or diesel-powered engine. These vehicles can be charged at home or at an EV charging station available in most communities. Some EVs have available range extenders and other methods of extending the battery range that vary by make and model.
- Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV): A Plug-in Hybrid uses an electric motor, gasoline engine or a combination of both depending on conditions. In battery mode a it will run on the electric motor until it is empty or a certain speed is reached, then switching to the gas engine. Most Americans drive between 15 to 25 miles per day, making a PHEV a great choice while still keeping the gas motor for longer trips. The battery can be charged by regenerative braking or by plugging it in.
- Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV): A hybrid vehicle has both a gas combustion engine and an electric motor. HEVs can switch between the gas engine and the electric motor to drive the vehicle. The gas motor is usually used at higher speeds and the electric motor at lower speeds. These vehicles do not need a charger and may be used exactly like a conventional car, offering better fuel economy.
One of the earliest concerns with an electric vehicle was where to charge it when you are on the go? With the amount of charging stations increasing, the concern about where to charge has decreased, but the different types of charging stations still remain a point of confusion. Find our charging station guide below.
Charging on the Go
The amount of charging locations continues to grow with each passing week and can be found at many popular locations including businesses, parks and malls. The majority of these charging stations will be Level 2 with an occasional Level 3 charger available. Level 3 chargers are becoming increasingly common, however. When planning your route, consider charging stations along the way if you need to top up during long drives. Be aware that as the popularity of electric vehicles rises, charging stations in some areas could become busy.
Charging at Home
Owners of electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles will do most of their charging at their home. At home charging can be done with two levels, the Level 1 standard outlet (120-volt), but the most effective will be the Level 2 charger (220-volt). To get a level 2 charger in your home, it will require professional installation by a licensed electrician. If you are renting your living space, contact your property management about installing an on-site charger. By charging your vehicle overnight, you can wake up every day to having the equivalent of a full tank!


Types of EV Chargers
Level 1 chargers use a standard 120-volt household outlet and charge about 2-5 miles of range per hour, making them really only suitable for plug-in hybrid vehicles. Battery electric vehicles will not get much benefit from these chargers.
Level 2 chargers can be found at some charging stations and can be installed in your home by a professional electrician. Level 2 chargers use 220-volt household outlets (like a dryer plug), and can deliver about 10-20 miles of range per hour. A good choice for any EV when charging overnight or all-day is possible.
Level 3 chargers are the most efficient and can be found at commercial locations. Sometimes known as 'DC fast chargers', Level 3 can charge about 60-80 miles of range or more in about 20 minutes. This type of charger is useful while traveling or when a quick charge is needed.
Charging times vary depending of the type of charger used. EPA-estimated mileage will vary by vehicle and driving conditions.
Charging Stations Near Volkswagen of Salem
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