Hybrid cars are powered by a combustion engine and an electric motor, working separately or together.
Hybrid electric vehicles (HEV) operate on two energy sources—they typically minimise exhaust emissions than traditional diesel or petrol cars. Hybrid cars combine the best features of diesel/petrol-powered cars and electric cars—to reduce emissions while increasing mileage. However, hybrid cars come with a fair share of pros and cons worth considering before investing in one.
Diesel or petrol-powered vehicles release hazardous carbon dioxide and greenhouse gases from their tailpipes, into the environment. Over time, these harmful emissions adversely impact the environment.
However, HEVs have two fuel options: electricity and gasoline. If you are driving your hybrid vehicle only on gasoline, you cannot prevent the emission of greenhouse gases—but the volume will be less than gasoline-only counterparts because HEVs are more fuel-efficient. Hybrid cars generate fewer hazardous emissions, resulting in diminished environmental impact and improved air quality—particularly in heavily populated areas.
The insurance cost of hybrid cars is higher than that of diesel or petrol cars because the former variant uses more expensive technologies to replace or repair. However, some insurance companies provide special discounts on HEVs to encourage people to buy hybrid cars—as they are more environmentally friendly than traditional diesel or petrol-driven cars.
When driving a hybrid car, you don’t have to frequently visit the gas station and pay hefty fuel charges to fill your tank. HEVs are powered by efficient engines—and you can switch to the electric mode to save fuel and reduce your carbon footprint. In contrast to regular gasoline-powered vehicles, hybrid cars provide better fuel economy—minimising fuel consumption, emission of greenhouse gases and saving money.
HEVs typically have a higher upfront cost unlike conventional vehicles—which often deters economical buyers. Hybrid and electric cars are more expensive than their traditional counterparts, but once you begin driving, the running cost will lower considerably. The money you will eventually save will make the higher initial cost seem negligible in the long run.
Since HEVs run on two power sources (the electric motor and the gas engine), their engines are exposed to less wear and tear. As a result, hybrid cars need less routine maintenance for oil or coolant compared to regular cars that solely rely on combustion fuel engines. However, the cost of maintenance may vary based on the type of HEV you drive. Therefore, do some research on the specific model you want to buy.
Many hybrid and electric vehicles feature a battery type that uses rare-earth materials extracted and sourced from certain region-specific mines in the world. Owing to the scarce availability of these materials, the battery replacement may cost a hefty amount.
Typically, HEVs have a higher resale value than diesel or petrol cars because they can attain a higher gas mileage. The resale value of hybrid cars tends to be higher because they require less maintenance and higher gas mileage.
Hybrid electric vehicles are often designed to serve the purpose of enhancing fuel efficiency and protecting the environment. As a result, the cars are manufactured keeping this goal in mind, and often the fuel efficiency factor compromises with the performance. Hybrid cars have a slower speed as opposed to their traditional counterparts.
In India, HEVs often receive lower road taxes and tax incentives. If you are searching for an economically attractive and eco-friendly option, it's time to invest in a hybrid electric vehicle.
