DIFFERENCE BETWEEN ELECTRIC VEHICLES AND HYBRID VEHICLES

Nowadays, people are increasingly inclined to buy electric and hybrid vehicles. While hybrid vehicles have been in development and marketed since the late 1800s, their popularity has remained low due to the high costs of mass production. However, car manufacturers continue to invest in new hybrid technologies to meet strict emissions standards.

 

Statistics show that people are increasingly using hybrid and electric vehicles for various reasons.

According to recent data, the global market for electric vehicles grew by 40% in the last year, with over 10 million electric cars on the roads. Similarly, hybrid vehicles account for nearly 5% of all new car sales in major markets like the United States and Europe. These vehicles are primarily chosen for their environmental benefits, lower operating costs, and compliance with stringent emission regulations.

Additionally, advancements in battery technology and expanding charging infrastructure have made electric and hybrid vehicles more accessible and practical for everyday use.

 

Difference Between Hybrid Cars and Electric Cars

Feature	Hybrid Car	Electric Cars
Source of Energy	A combination of internal combustion engines and electric motor	On electricity stored in a battery pack
Driving System	Switches between engine and electric motor, or uses both	Driven exclusively by electric motors
Purpose	Better fuel efficiency, lower emissions, extended range	Eliminate tailpipe emissions, and provide a cleaner alternative
Plug-in Charging of Battery	Required for Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs)	Required for all-electric vehicles
Need of Petrol or Diesel	Yes, for the internal combustion engine	No, relies entirely on electricity
Complexity	More complex due to dual systems	Simpler mechanical systems with fewer components
Pollutant Emission	Lower than traditional cars but still present	Zero tailpipe emissions
Recharging	Regenerative braking and engine	Plugged into electrical outlets or charging stations
Maintenance	Requires more maintenance due to dual systems	Lower maintenance needs with fewer moving parts
Operational and Capital Cost	Higher purchase cost but lower operating costs	Higher initial cost but benefits from incentives and lower running costs
Range and Distance	Longer range due to fuel backup	Limited range, improving with technology
Fuel/Charging Location	Petrol stations and some charging stations	Charging stations and home outlets
Noise Level	Quieter, especially in electric mode	Virtually silent

 

What is an Electric Vehicle?

The term EV Electric Vehicle is a type of vehicle that is powered entirely by electricity. Unlike general and traditional vehicles that rely on an internal combustion engine (ICE) using petrol or diesel, EVs use electric motors and draw power from a battery pack. EV batteries can be recharged by plugging the vehicle into an external power source, such as a home outlet or a public charging station. EVs are known for producing zero tailpipe emissions, making them environmentally friendly and contributing to cleaner air. Here you can read more about  the Tax benefits of buying an electric vehicle and its essentials about insurance.

List of the Latest Electric Cars in India, 2024

1. Tesla Model 3
2. Lucid Air
3. Ford Mustang Mach-E
4. Volkswagen ID 4
5. Chevrolet Bolt EUV
6. BMW iX
7. Nissan Ariya

 

What are Hybrid Cars?

Hybrid cars use a combination of an internal combustion engine and one or more electric motors to power the vehicle.

Types of Hybrid Vehicles:

1. Conventional hybrids (HEVs)
2. Plug-in hybrids (PHEVs)

HEVs use the electric motor to assist the engine and recharge the battery through regenerative braking, while PHEVs can be plugged in to recharge their larger battery packs and can run on electricity alone for short distances. Hybrids are designed to offer better fuel efficiency and lower emissions than traditional vehicles.

 

List of the Latest Hybrid Cars in India, 2024

1. Toyota Prius
2. Honda Accord Hybrid
3. Toyota RAV4 Prime
4. Ford Escape Hybrid
5. Hyundai Ioniq Plug-In Hybrid:
6. Kia Sorento Hybrid
7. Lexus RX 450h

 

Know the Insurance for Electric and Hybrid Vehicles

As more people shift to electric and hybrid vehicles, understanding their insurance requirements becomes increasingly important. Insurance for EVs and hybrid cars is similar to that of traditional vehicles but comes with some unique considerations.

1. Cost Factors

• Vehicle Value

EVs and hybrids often have higher upfront costs, which can affect insurance premiums.

• Repair Costs

The advanced technology in these vehicles can lead to higher repair costs, impacting insurance rates.

• Battery Replacement

Insurance may need to cover the cost of battery replacement, which is typically expensive.

 

2. Discounts and Incentives

• Eco-Friendly Discounts

Some insurers offer discounts for driving environmentally friendly vehicles.

• Government Incentives

Tax credits and rebates for purchasing EVs and hybrids can also influence insurance costs.

 

3. Coverage Needs

• Comprehensive Coverage

Given the higher value and repair costs, comprehensive coverage is often recommended.

• Roadside Assistance

Specialized roadside assistance for EVs and hybrids may be necessary, considering their unique needs.

 

4. Risk Factors

• New Technology

Insurers may charge higher premiums initially due to the new technology and lack of long-term data on risks.

• Safety Features

Many EVs and hybrids come with advanced safety features that can help reduce insurance costs.

 

Tips for Buying Car Insurance for Hybrid Cars and Electric Vehicles

• Ensure coverage includes theft, vandalism, and battery issues.
• Confirm coverage for higher repair costs and specialized parts.
• Opt for assistance tailored to hybrid and electric vehicles.
• Protect against accidents and at-fault incidents.
• Guard against accidents with uninsured drivers.
• Research around the shop for the best rates and coverage.
• Use advanced safety features to lower premiums.
• Look for discounts through safe driving telematics.
• Factor in vehicle depreciation and warranty impacts.
• Save by comparing and buying car insurance with other policies.

 

Read More | How to Calculate Premium on Electric Car Insurance

Overall,

Whether you're considering a hybrid or electric vehicle, choosing the right insurance is so important to safeguard your investment. Understanding the unique cars advantages and disadvantages of these vehicles, such as specialized repairs and battery coverage can help you make an informed decision. Compare insurance options carefully to find comprehensive coverage that fits your budget and provides peace of mind on the road.

Compare two wheeler insurance plans today to secure the best coverage for your hybrid or electric vehicle. Protect your investment and enjoy worry-free driving with insurance that meets your specific needs.

 

FAQs

Q1. What is the most popular hybrid car on the market?

Ans: The Toyota Prius remains one of the most popular hybrid cars globally, known for its fuel efficiency and reliability.

Q2. Which is better, a hybrid car or an electric car?

Ans: The choice between a hybrid and an electric car depends on your needs. Hybrids offer flexibility with their dual power sources, ideal for longer distances without frequent charging. Electric cars produce zero emissions and are cost-effective for daily commuting if charging infrastructure is accessible.

Q3. Can I customize insurance coverage for my hybrid or electric vehicle?

Ans: Yes, many insurers offer tailored coverage options for hybrid and electric vehicles. You can customize policies to include comprehensive protection for specialized components like batteries and charging equipment.

Q4. Which type of car is more likely to dominate in the future?

Ans: Electric vehicles (EVs) are poised to dominate the automotive industry in the future due to advancements in battery technology, expanding charging infrastructure, and global initiatives to reduce emissions. However, hybrids will continue to serve as a bridge technology during the transition to fully electric vehicles.

Q5. Which electric vehicle is most popular in India?

Ans: The Tata Nexon EV has gained significant popularity as an electric vehicle, offering practicality and affordability in the EV segment.