A Review by the Auto Motive Electronic Editorial Team
Welcome to the Age of Alternative Engines
The motoring world is undergoing a real shake-up. Just ten years ago, the big debate was between petrol and diesel. These days, it’s all about two major contenders: hybrid vehicles (HEV/PHEV) and fully electric cars (BEVs). Both offer unique advantages — but which one actually makes more sense? In this piece, we’ll dive into the technical details, regional trends, car hire preferences, and what’s expected in 2025 to help you make an informed decision.
Environment: Which Is Greener?
Electric Vehicles (BEVs)
Their biggest win? Zero tailpipe emissions. But how eco-friendly they truly are depends on how the electricity is generated. In countries where power still comes from coal (like parts of China or Australia), the benefit drops significantly. On the other hand, in places like Norway — where 98% of electricity comes from hydro and wind — a Tesla Model 3 or Polestar 2 is about as clean as it gets.
Hybrids (HEV/PHEV)
Not quite as green, but definitely cleaner than traditional petrol engines. For instance, the Toyota Prius cuts emissions by 30–40% compared to similar non-hybrid models. Plug-in hybrids like the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV can drive 50–70 km on electric power alone — perfect for daily city commutes.
Takeaway: BEVs are the eco champs if your energy comes from renewable sources. Hybrids are a good compromise for regions still reliant on fossil fuels.
Cost: Is Going Green Expensive?
Electric Cars
Let’s be honest — the upfront price is steep. Even budget-friendly models like the Nissan Leaf start at around £25,000–£30,000. But running costs are low: charging averages about £0.02–£0.03 per km, compared to £0.10 for petrol. Maintenance is minimal too — no oil changes, belts or exhaust systems to worry about. And in the UK, there are tax incentives, grants, and exemptions from congestion charges to sweeten the deal.
Hybrids
Cars like the Toyota Corolla Hybrid or Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid start around £20,000–£25,000. The hybrid system usually pays for itself in fuel savings within 3–5 years. But upkeep is a bit more involved — you’ll still need oil changes, filters, and monitoring of both engine systems.
Takeaway: BEVs pay off in the long run. Hybrids make more sense if you’re budget-conscious now.
Performance: Power vs Practicality
Electric Cars
Instant torque makes them lightning-quick. The Porsche Taycan, for example, does 0–60 in 2.8 seconds. Top models like the Tesla Model S offer up to 400+ miles of range — on par with petrol cars.
Hybrids
It’s all about balance here. The Toyota RAV4 Prime delivers 306 bhp while sipping just 2.6 L/100km. Plug-in hybrids like the BMW X5 xDrive45e are perfect for long trips — 50 miles on electric + 370 miles on petrol.
Takeaway: BEVs are great for speed and city life. Hybrids are better for long-distance travel and regions where charging options are scarce.
Charging Infrastructure: Can You Top Up Easily?
Electric Cars
In Norway, you’ll find 4 charging stations per 100 km — super convenient. But in places like Russia or India, the network is patchy. In the UK, coverage is improving, especially in cities and along motorways. Tesla’s Supercharger network in the US only covers major routes.
Hybrids
Petrol stations still massively outnumber charging points, making hybrids a solid choice in rural or underdeveloped areas. In Australia, for example, 70% of hybrids are bought by people living outside major cities.
Takeaway: In cities with good charging coverage, BEVs are ideal. In the countryside? A hybrid is your friend.
Regional Preferences: Who’s Leading the Charge?
Europe: Norway is smashing it — over 80% of new car sales in 2023 were electric. Germany leans towards luxury EVs like the Audi e-tron and Mercedes EQS.
Asia: China makes up 60% of global BEV sales (think BYD, NIO), while Japan still prefers hybrids (Toyota, Honda).
USA: Tesla rules California, but in more conservative states, hybrid Fords and Jeeps are more popular.
Russia & CIS: Lexus and Toyota hybrids are the top choice, largely due to sanctions and lack of charging infrastructure.
Car Sharing & Rentals: What’s Being Rented Most?
Electric Cars:
- Europe: Companies like Lime and Share Now are buying up Renault Zoes and Fiat 500e for urban travel.
- China: DiDi runs fleets of BYD Han EVs.
- USA: Tesla Model 3 is a frequent sight in Hertz and Enterprise rentals.
Hybrids:
- North America: Zipcar offers the Toyota Prius for budget-conscious renters.
- Australia: Hertz has added the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross PHEV for tourists.
Trend: EVs are preferred for city rentals, while hybrids are favoured for intercity and rural hires.
Looking Ahead to 2025: Who Comes Out on Top?
Electric Cars
By 2025, BEVs could make up 40% of new car sales in the EU, driven by the planned ICE (internal combustion engine) phase-out by 2035. Tesla’s Cybertruck and VW’s ID. Buzz will likely be big hits, and Chinese brands like Xpeng and Li Auto are gaining ground.
Hybrids
In the US and parts of Asia, hybrids will still hold about 25–30% of the market during this transitional period. Toyota’s working on a hybrid Hilux, and Hyundai’s prepping a Santa Fe Hybrid.
Wildcard: Solid-state batteries (being developed by Toyota and QuantumScape) could shake up the market big time — cheaper, faster charging, and more efficient BEVs.
It’s Up to You
Hybrids are perfect for sceptics and folks living in areas with poor charging infrastructure. BEVs are a smart investment for the future — especially if you’ve got home charging and access to green tariffs. By 2025, the competition will heat up, but for now, the winners will be the drivers who are flexible and ready to adapt.
Auto Motive Electronic Recommends:
- For city life: Tesla Model Y, Hyundai Ioniq 5
- For long trips: Toyota RAV4 Prime, Volvo XC60 Recharge
- For business: Mercedes EQV, Lexus RX 450h
We hope you found our review interesting — and we’ve got more exciting articles coming your way soon!