Based on what you’ve told us, you might be better opting for a hybrid car, which uses both electric and conventional fuel. With Hybrid cars, whilst some use plug-in chargers similar to a pure electric, the option to use fuel reduces your reliance on charging. This allows you to take advantage of electric for shorter journeys, charging when you can, whilst using fuel for longer journeys or on the occasion you can’t reach a charge point.
Hybrids are also a brilliant option for transitioning from traditional fuel vehicles, into a fully electric car in future, if you aren’t completely comfortable with the idea yet. You might find you love using the electric motor, and decide to opt for a pure electric car in the future!
*This calculator is a guide, and should not be used as a sole reason for your decision. We have lots of guides and advice articles to help you do your research – visit our knowledge hub for our latest guides on driving electric.
With a range of hybrid cars from leading manufacturers, you can find the right car for you on our salary sacrifice car scheme. There are still great savings to be made with hybrid cars, so browse our range of cars including ones that may already be in stock, ready for quick delivery! Log in to your scheme and find the best car for your lifestyle.
From the Volvo XC40 to the Audi Q5 there are 100s of makes and models to choose from if you are looking for a hybrid car.
A hybrid car is like a fancy blend of two types of cars, mixing together the best features of a fuel-powered car and an electric car. A hybrid car has an engine, just like a regular petrol or diesel car, and it also has an electric motor and a battery pack. The electric motor is powered by a battery, and it kicks in to assist the engine when needed. When you start the car or drive at low speeds, the electric motor takes over, using the energy stored in the battery. This means less fuel is burned, which is not only good for your wallet but also for the planet. When you accelerate or go up a hill, the petrol or diesel engine jumps in to provide extra power. So, the electric motor and the engine work together, like a tag team.
Unlike electric cars, you don’t have to plug in a hybrid car like you do with a fully electric vehicle. The battery gets charged automatically as you drive, thanks to the engine and regenerative braking. However, some hybrids also offer the option to plug them in and charge the battery from an external power source if you want to go the extra mile.
Arguably, anyone who doesn’t want to make the switch to fully electric right now. It’s the more eco-friendly and fuel-efficient option than a petrol or diesel car. It allows you to experience some of the benefits of electric driving, such as improved efficiency and reduced emissions, while still having the convenience and longer range provided by the petrol or diesel engine.
There are also savings to be made on a salary sacrifice scheme, thanks to lower Benefit in Kind rates, which can mean lower tax and NI is required.
Like EVs, hybrids are usually exempt from ULEZ or CAZs so you’ll not only make fuel savings, but also save on the daily charge into city centres where these operate.
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Although you may not to be ready to make the switch to an electric car, making the transition has never been easier. Take a look at our guide books, to find out more about EV’s, charging and costs to discover everything you need to know about driving an electric vehicle.
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