Understand the different types
A battery electric car uses electricity stored in its traction battery and needs an external charger. A full hybrid combines a combustion engine and electric drive, with its battery replenished by the vehicle rather than a plug.
A plug-in hybrid also has an engine, but its battery can be charged externally for electric driving. A mild hybrid provides electrical assistance to the engine and should not be assumed to offer the same electric-only driving capability. Check the specification of the exact model.
Think about charging and your journeys
- Can you charge reliably where you park at home or work?
- Which public chargers would you use on longer trips, and what alternatives are nearby?
- How much of your driving is short local trips, motorway travel or towing?
- Would plugging in a plug-in hybrid regularly fit your routine?
Use these answers to compare suitable models. Published range figures are a starting point; weather, speed and vehicle use can change what you see in practice.
Compare the whole ownership picture
Compare purchase price, insurance, maintenance needs and the actual fuel or charging tariffs available to you. There is no single running-cost saving that applies to every driver. For a used car, request the service history and check the model’s battery warranty terms and any available manufacturer battery report.
A battery electric car has no tailpipe exhaust emissions while driving. A hybrid still uses fuel when its engine runs. That distinction does not, by itself, describe the complete environmental impact of making and powering either vehicle.
Plan for maintenance as well
Both types still have tyres, brakes and other components to look after. Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule for the model. Our electric and hybrid servicing page explains the routine checks we can help with in Basingstoke.
We cannot test the remaining longevity of the main high-voltage traction battery. For that assessment, contact the manufacturer or main dealer. Read our guide to electric car servicing before arranging a visit.