Hybrid cars are marketed and branded in a variety of ways, but they all have an internal combustion engine (petrol or diesel) and an electric motor that is driven by the energy stored in the electric batteries. Hybrids come in a variety of forms:

• Full hybrids (or HEVs) and mild (or MHEV) alternate between the internal combustion engine and the battery and can operate for short distances on electric power alone

• Plug-in hybrids (or PHEVs) have larger batteries and can run for longer distances (usually approximately 20-30 miles) on electric power alone.

This is based on the hybrid's set up. You are not required to charge your plug-in hybrid from a home wall box or a public charging station, but it is an option if you intend to enjoy an extended electric range.

If you choose not to charge your hybrid car, it will use the petrol or diesel engine more often, requiring you to fuel it like a standard car. Other hybrids cars charge themselves while you drive through energy-storing from braking.

Automatic gearboxes are used in most hybrid cars to help the electric motor and the internal combustion engine operate together more smoothly.

Plug-in hybrids that emit less than 75g/km of CO2 per kilometre and have an electric-only range of at least 20 miles are currently exempt from the London Congestion Charge.

As clean air zones are implemented in various places, criteria may differ, so check with your local government regarding plans in your area.

You can either use public charging stations or charge at home. Electric vehicles can charge at one of three speeds: slow, fast, or rapid. Each consumes a different amount of energy that’s measured in kWh and takes a varied amount of time to charge. You'll need to check nearby chargers to see if they support your car because different vehicles require different types of cables and connectors.

Electric car battery technology is continually developing. The distance you can go on a single charge (referred to as the car's range) is always growing as technology develops. Older electric cars have a limited range, however current electric cars can drive up to 350+ miles on a single charge, with 150-250 miles being the most frequent range.

Lithium-ion batteries are currently used in most, if not all, electric cars. They're the current industry standard, with a greater range and better energy retention than older battery types. When buying an electric car, keep in mind the battery's expected life, plus warranties and guarantees available.

Electric vehicles do not require gears. They also don't require a clutch. Electric cars do not have multi-speed transmissions since they can achieve their top speed in a single gear, thanks in part to the fact that their electric motors rev at a far higher rate than a normal petrol or diesel engine.