Hello again Barkas,
You are correct, the Cascade 2 is a gas only, and the Cascade 2GE ( and the Rapide model) are both Gas and mains electric heaters.
The two heaters are essentially the same as far as the gas system is concerned, The difference is that electric element fitted to the end of the tank. This is independently controlled via a mains switch, and yes it is thermostatically controlled, though there is no temperature adjustment.
It sounds as though the heater may have been replaced or had the electric tank kit fitted as an upgrade.
You can use both gas and electric heaters at the same time. This will speed up heating up, and due to a slight difference in the thermostatic settings of the two systems, the heater will tend to cycle on the electric element, unless a lot of hot water is drawn off when the gas system will also kick in until the water temperature is restored.
Both systems are safe** to leave on over night, but the most efficient usage is to turn the heater on about 30 mins before it is needed.
**To maintain the safety of all gas appliances, they must be regularly inspected and if necessary serviced or repaired. All work on gas appliances must be maintained by a competent person working to the gas regulations.