Electric Vs Hybrid Vs Plug-In Hybrid Electric Cars: Which Is Better?

As the world shifts gears toward a cleaner, greener future, the way we drive is evolving fast. More drivers than ever are looking beyond traditional petrol and diesel engines in favour of eco-friendly alternatives like hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and fully electric vehicles.

In 2024 alone, electric vehicle (EV) sales surged by over 20%, and with the 2035 UK ban on new petrol and diesel cars fast approaching, the momentum isn't slowing down. But with so many options now available, it's natural to feel a bit overwhelmed.

Should you choose a hybrid to ease electrification? A plug-in hybrid for the best of both worlds? Or go all-in with a fully battery-powered EV?

This guide breaks it all down-how each type of vehicle works, the pros and cons, and which one might fit your lifestyle best. Whether you're curious, confused, or ready to commit, we're here to help you navigate the road ahead.

Different Types of Cars: Hybrid, Plug-in Hybrid, and Electric

With sustainability driving the future of transport, UK car buyers now have more choices than ever. Beyond traditional petrol and diesel engines, there's a growing lineup of electrified options-each with its own perks and trade-offs. In this guide, we'll take a closer look at the three main types of eco-friendly cars: Hybrids, Plug-in Hybrids, and Fully Electric Vehicles. We'll break down how each one works, what makes them unique, and how to decide which one fits best into your daily life.

Hybrid Cars

A balanced blend of fuel and electric power

Hybrid cars have been around for decades, offering drivers a smooth introduction to electrified driving without requiring them to plug in. These cars are powered by a traditional petrol or diesel engine, but they also come with a small battery and an electric motor. A well-known example is the Toyota Prius, which became a global icon for eco-friendly motoring.

How Hybrid Cars Work?

A hybrid car uses its engine and electric motor in harmony. The electric motor assists the petrol or diesel engine when needed, helping to reduce fuel consumption and lower emissions. The small battery is charged automatically through regenerative braking and the engine - there's no need to plug it in. Most hybrids can drive short distances at low speeds using only the electric motor, especially in city traffic.

Curious about the tech behind it? Learn more in our blog on how hybrid cars work.

Pros of Hybrid Cars

Familiar driving experience

Hybrid cars feel like traditional cars to drive. You do not need to worry about charging cables or adapting your driving style. Everything works automatically behind the scenes, offering a seamless transition from petrol or diesel to hybrid.

Fuel efficiency in cities

In stop-and-go traffic, hybrids shine. The electric motor does most of the work at low speeds, reducing fuel use. Energy that is usually lost during braking is reused to charge the battery, making these cars especially efficient in urban environments.

Lower emissions and road tax

Hybrid cars emit less CO2 than standard petrol or diesel vehicles. This means you pay lower Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) and may also save money on company car tax, although the savings are not as high as those of electric or plug-in hybrid models.

Suitable for towing

Hybrid cars are currently the most reliable electrified option for towing. While their towing capacity might be slightly lower than a traditional diesel car, it is generally higher than that of electric vehicles, some of which are not approved for towing at all.

Cons of Hybrid Cars

Higher purchase cost

Hybrid cars generally cost more to buy than conventional petrol or diesel cars. Monthly finance payments might be higher too, and motorway fuel economy can be less impressive than a diesel's.

Limited electric range

Most hybrids offer just a mile or two of electric-only range, which means the engine kicks in quickly. While this is fine in city driving, it limits the benefits on longer trips.

Future restrictions

New hybrid cars will no longer be sold in the UK after 2035 - or earlier if legislation changes. Some cities may also impose stricter rules on hybrid vehicles in clean air zones as we move closer to 2050 carbon neutrality goals.

Thinking of stepping into electrified driving but not ready for a full EV? Plug-in hybrids could be your perfect middle ground.

Plug-in Hybrid Cars

Bridging the gap between petrol and electric

Plug-in hybrids, or PHEVs, are a step up from regular hybrids. These cars come with a larger battery and can travel much further using electric power alone. A few popular plug-in hybrid models in the UK include the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, BMW 330e, and Ford Kuga PHEV.

How Plug-in Hybrid Cars work

A plug-in hybrid features both a combustion engine and an electric motor, but unlike regular hybrids, its battery can be recharged by plugging into a home charger or public charging station. When fully charged, most PHEVs can cover between 25- and 70-miles using electricity alone - enough for most daily commutes. Once the battery is empty, the car switches to using a petrol or diesel engine.

Pros of Plug-in Hybrid Cars

Flexible long-distance travel

You can start your journey using electric power and switch to the petrol or diesel engine when needed. This makes long journeys stress-free, especially if you don't always have access to a charger.

Lower fuel bills

Most plug-in hybrids start in electric mode, which means short trips around town may not use any fuel at all. For people whose daily drives are less than 30 miles, the petrol engine might rarely be needed.

Tax benefits

Cars with lower emissions and longer electric range qualify for lower Benefit-in-Kind (BiK) tax rates, which can save company car drivers a lot of money. Some PHEVs even fall into the lowest BiK bands.

Smooth and quiet drive

Plug-in hybrids usually offer a quiet, responsive drive in electric mode. And when the battery runs out, there's no panic - just switch to petrol or diesel and keep going.

Cons of Plug-in Hybrid Cars

Expensive upfront

Plug-in hybrids are typically more expensive than both hybrids and conventional cars. For example, the plug-in version of the Hyundai Ioniq costs around £6,500 more than its standard hybrid counterpart.

Charging is essential

If you don't charge the battery regularly, you're just carrying around extra weight for no reason. This reduces efficiency and increases fuel use, making the car more expensive to run than a hybrid.

Handling compromises

Because of the larger battery pack, plug-in hybrids can feel heavier and less nimble. The ride may be stiffer, and cornering might feel less sharp compared to a lighter vehicle.

Short-term relevance

As battery ranges improve and charging infrastructure expands, plug-in hybrids may become obsolete. Many manufacturers are now focusing more on fully electric vehicles.

Ready to go all-in on electric? Let's look at fully electric cars and see if they're the right fit for you.

Electric Cars

The future of driving is fully electric

Electric vehicles (EVs), also known as battery electric vehicles (BEVs), are growing rapidly in popularity. They run entirely on electricity and produce zero emissions. From budget models like the Dacia Spring to high-end EVs like the Mercedes EQS 450+, there's now an electric car for almost every lifestyle and budget.

Also Read: Top Top 10 Best Electric Cars And EVs To Buy In The UK

How Electric Car works?

Electric cars are powered by electric motors and a rechargeable battery pack. There is no engine or exhaust system. You charge the car battery by plugging it into a home charger or using the growing UK public charging network. The driving range depends on the size of the battery, with some models capable of going over 400 miles on a single charge.

Pros of Electric Cars

Low running costs

Electric cars are generally cheaper to run than petrol or diesel vehicles. If you charge at home, especially during off-peak hours, your "fuel" costs are significantly lower. Maintenance is cheaper too, thanks to fewer moving parts.

Environmental benefits

EVs produce zero tailpipe emissions, which helps reduce air pollution in towns and cities. Driving an electric car is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint.

Tax and incentives

Electric cars are exempt from road tax and the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) charge. Company car drivers benefit from extremely low tax rates, and those who install a home charger may be eligible for government grants.

Quiet and smooth performance

EVs offer instant torque, making them quick off the line. They also run silently, providing a calm, smooth driving experience - no gear changes, no engine noise.

Modern tech and features

Electric cars are often at the forefront of automotive technology. Many come with advanced driver-assist features, innovative infotainment, and sleek, futuristic interiors.

Also Read: What Is Electric Car Conversion?

Cons of Electric Cars

Range limitations

Although range is improving, the actual distance you can travel depends on many factors - wintry weather, hills, driving speed, and use of heating or air conditioning can reduce the real-world range.

Higher purchase price

Electric cars can cost more to buy compared to petrol or diesel equivalents. However, monthly leasing deals and lower running costs can help offset this.

Charging access

If you don't have off-street parking or a home charging point, relying on public chargers may be inconvenient. Although the UK charging network is growing, some areas still lack reliable coverage.

Rapid innovation

The pace of development in the EV sector is so fast that a car bought today may feel outdated in just a few years. This may affect resale value and long-term ownership appeal.

Differences Between Electric Cars Vs Hybrid Cars Vs PHEV Cars

When considering which type of vehicle best suits your needs, it's helpful to compare the key features of Electric Cars (EVs), Hybrid Cars (HEVs), and Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs). Below is a table that highlights their main differences across numerous factors.

Considerations for Choosing Between Hybrid, PHEVs, and Electric Vehicles (EVs)

Choosing between a Hybrid, Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV), or a Fully Electric Vehicle (EV) depends on your driving habits, lifestyle, and environmental priorities. Here are the key factors to help guide your decision:

1. Driving Range and Charging Infrastructure

• Hybrid: Best for those who don't want to worry about charging. The petrol engine ensures long-range flexibility, especially on long trips. Ideal for city driving but with no need for external charging.
• PHEV: Offers the flexibility of both electric and petrol power. Perfect for short trips using electric mode, with the petrol engine as a backup for longer journeys. Requires regular charging to maximize electric range.
• EV: Ideal for drivers with access to home charging or public stations, and those primarily driving within the EV's range. As the charging infrastructure improves, EVs are becoming increasingly convenient for most drivers.

2. Environmental Impact

• Hybrid: Produces fewer emissions than conventional petrol or diesel cars, especially in urban driving, but still relies on fossil fuels for long distances.
• PHEV: Offers the best of both worlds, with the ability to drive on electric power for short trips, reducing emissions, but the petrol engine kicks in for longer distances.
• EV: Provides zero emissions, making it the most environmentally friendly choice, especially with the growing shift towards renewable energy sources.

3. Cost and Budget

• Hybrid: Generally, less expensive than PHEVs and EVs but may have higher running costs than petrol or diesel cars due to the complexity of the hybrid system.
• PHEV: Typically, more expensive upfront than hybrids due to the larger battery but offers lower running costs if used primarily on electric power.
• EV: The initial cost can be high, but long-term savings in fuel and maintenance make them a sound investment, especially with incentives available for purchase.

4. Maintenance and Running Costs

• Hybrid: Offers improved fuel efficiency compared to conventional cars but has the complexity of both a petrol engine and an electric motor, potentially leading to higher maintenance costs.
• PHEV: Requires maintenance for both the petrol engine and electric system, but typically lower than conventional cars. Charging the battery regularly can reduce fuel costs significantly.
• EV: Lower maintenance costs since there are fewer moving parts. No oil changes, and fewer parts that wear out compared to traditional vehicles, making them cheaper to maintain over time.

5. Suitability for Daily Commute

• Hybrid: Excellent for drivers who mostly do short city commutes but occasionally need to travel longer distances without worrying about charging.
• PHEV: Ideal for those who want to do most of their daily driving on electric power but need the flexibility to drive longer distances without stopping for a charge.
• EV: Perfect for daily commutes within the EV's range and those with convenient access to home charging or public charging infrastructure.

FAQs on Electric Cars, Hybrid Cars, and Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs)

1. What is the main difference between Electric Cars (EVs), Hybrid Cars (HEVs), and Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs)?

• Electric Cars (EVs) rely solely on an electric motor powered by a battery and must be plugged in for charging.
• Hybrid Cars (HEVs) combine a petrol or diesel engine with an electric motor, using both to improve fuel efficiency, but the battery is charged via the engine.
• Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) are similar to hybrids but with a larger battery that can be charged via a plug, offering more electric range before switching to the petrol/diesel engine.

2. Do I need to charge a Hybrid or Plug-in Hybrid Car?

• Hybrid Cars (HEVs) do not require charging as the battery is charged through the petrol/diesel engine and regenerative braking.
• Plug-in Hybrid Cars (PHEVs) can be charged via a home charging point or public charging station to maximize electric-only driving. It's recommended to regularly charge the battery for best performance.

3. How far can I drive on electric power in each vehicle type?

• Electric Cars (EVs) can typically travel between 100 and 450 miles on a full charge, depending on the model and battery size.
• Hybrid Cars (HEVs) usually offer around 1-2 miles of electric-only range, suitable for short urban trips.
• Plug-in Hybrid Cars (PHEVs) can drive anywhere from 25 to 70 miles on electric power, depending on the model and battery size.

4. Which type of car is the best for long journeys?

• Electric Cars (EVs) are ideal for long journeys if there are sufficient charging stations along the route, as they offer no reliance on a petrol/diesel engine.
• Hybrid Cars (HEVs) are well-suited for long journeys as they can switch to the petrol/diesel engine when the battery runs out, so there's no range anxiety.
• Plug-in Hybrid Cars (PHEVs) offer flexibility for both short trips using electric power and long trips where the petrol/diesel engine takes over.

5. Are there any tax benefits for choosing Electric or Hybrid Cars?

• Electric Cars (EVs) qualify for tax benefits, including zero road tax (VED) in many regions, and lower company car tax rates.
• Hybrid Cars (HEVs) offer lower CO2 emissions, resulting in lower VED rates and lower company car tax, although not as low as EVs.
• Plug-in Hybrid Cars (PHEVs) are eligible for tax incentives as well, especially if they have low emissions and decent electric range, which can result in low company car tax rates.

6. What are the maintenance costs for each type of car?

• Electric Cars (EVs) have lower maintenance costs because they have fewer moving parts and no internal combustion engine, reducing wear and tear.
• Hybrid Cars (HEVs) have more complex systems, combining both an electric motor and a petrol/diesel engine, so maintenance can be higher than EVs but lower than conventional petrol or diesel cars.
• Plug-in Hybrid Cars (PHEVs) have similar maintenance costs to hybrids, with the added complexity of the larger battery and charging system, though still typically cheaper than petrol/diesel cars.

7. Can Hybrid or Plug-in Hybrid Cars tow?

• Hybrid Cars (HEVs) can tow, but the towing capacity is generally lower than that of petrol or diesel vehicles. However, they still provide a decent towing capacity for light loads.
• Plug-in Hybrid Cars (PHEVs) can also tow, often offering a higher towing capacity compared to EVs, although it may still be less than traditional petrol or diesel vehicles.

8. Are Electric Cars the most environmentally friendly option?

• Yes, Electric Cars (EVs) are the most eco-friendly option, as they produce zero tailpipe emissions and rely entirely on electricity, which can be sourced from renewable energy.
• Hybrid Cars (HEVs) and Plug-in Hybrid Cars (PHEVs) both offer lower emissions than petrol or diesel vehicles, but they still rely on fossil fuels when the electric range is depleted, making them less environmentally friendly than EVs.

Conclusion: Suggestions on Choosing the Right Vehicle

When deciding between an electric car, hybrid, or plug-in hybrid, consider your driving habits and environmental goals.

• Electric Cars (EVs) are ideal for those who want a fully eco-friendly option for daily commutes within the vehicle's range.
• Hybrid Cars (HEVs) offer improved fuel efficiency with the convenience of a petrol or diesel engine.
• Plug-in Hybrid Cars (PHEVs) provide the flexibility of electric power for short trips and a traditional engine for longer journeys.

Whichever vehicle you choose, it's crucial to consider the long-term ownership costs, including potential repairs and maintenance. That's where Warranty Direct, the UK's leading hybrid and electric car warranty provider, can help. Offering comprehensive car warranties tailored to electric, hybrid, and conventional vehicles, we ensure peace of mind with coverage for essential components, including battery packs, motors, and more. This protection can help safeguard your investment in a green vehicle, ensuring you enjoy the road ahead without unexpected repair costs.

Choose wisely, and drive with confidence, knowing that you have the right vehicle and the best warranty protection to match your needs.