A hybrid car is defined as one that uses more than one power source to power its engine. When they first appeared on the scene, they were marketed mostly to environmentally conscious drivers who wanted to lower their emissions. Now, however, they have gone mainstream.
There are plenty of reasons why the hybrid car is becoming increasingly popular. Whether it’s because manufacturers are launching hybrid versions of their popular models, or because the mileage of hybrid vehicles is steadily increasing, the argument for investing in a hybrid is already a strong one.
Why are you buying a hybrid?
Knowing the reason why you want to invest in a hybrid vehicle will make your decision a lot easier. Stating that all hybrid vehicles will save you money over time is a pretty broad generalisation to make. Savings aren’t always that easy to calculate.
Most hybrid vehicles cost more than their petrol or diesel-only counterparts. Because of this, you’re going to have to be pretty sure that your hybrid will actually save you money in the future. You should make sure that you calculate the payback period precisely and that it is to your advantage.
What kinds of hybrid cars are there?
There are a variety of different types of hybrid vehicle on the market right now. Over the years their design has become more innovative and intricate, allowing for a range of different kinds of hybrid engines.
Series Hybrids are those where the gas engine powers a generator that charges batteries to power the electric motor. Parallel Hybrids are cars where both the engine and motor can drive the wheels. Mixed Hybrids are engines where the gas engine generates electricity or powers the car directly.
Full Hybrids, on the other hand, have electric motors that are powerful enough to start the car from a stop and take it to full speed. Finally, mild hybrids have small electric motor that act primarily as boosters.
Are there other incentives?
If you’re looking to save on tax, hybrids are the way forward. Because hybrid vehicles have lower tailpipe CO2emissions, they are placed three to four tax bands lower than petrol or diesel powered cars. This also applies to car tax.
The Mayor of London also introduced a Greener Vehicle Discount under the London Congestion Charge scheme two years ago. Under this scheme, all cars that emit less than or equal to 100g CO2/km and meet the Euro 5 emissions standards will qualify for a 100 per cent discount. There are also various other discounts and tax benefits involved for businesses that make all of their cars ‘green’.
Hybrid vehicles are rapidly evolving and are changing every year. Again, it’s important to understand that you need to decide why you want a hybrid car. This will make your decision infinitely easier. Keeping an eye on technology developments in this area will definitely pay off and inform your decision too.
