Should you buy a hybrid car?

Hybrid vehicles are becoming more and more popular, with most manufacturers offering this type of vehicle. Each type of hybrid has its own pros and cons - should you choose this type of vehicle?

In general, exactly. However, a dilemma can arise when choosing between a “traditional” hybrid and a plug-in version. The fact is that in our conditions it is not easy to fully use the capabilities of a car charged from an outlet, and the option without a cable is usually also cheaper to buy.

Hybrid Cars - A Brief Introduction

Today, hybrids have become so entrenched in our automotive landscape that it is impossible to imagine the streets without them. Meanwhile, the first large-scale hybrid car hit the market just 24 years ago and initially, while it had its own loyal fan base, didn't sell as well. The time of hybrids began about 15 years ago, but today, incl. Due to the restrictions associated with exhaust emissions and the ease of use of green cars introduced by many countries around the world, this type of vehicle is offered by most manufacturers. This is our climate, I want to say. And there will be no turning back. The problem is that with "traditional" hybrid systems (they cannot be charged from an outlet, they will travel several kilometers downstream at low speed), only Toyota and Lexus are left, and most other manufacturers have switched to plug-in options. So-called mild hybrids (MHEVs), i.e. combustion vehicles that use an additional electric motor, for example, to temporarily increase the torque of the drive system and power the on-board electrical system. Each species has its own advantages, each has its own disadvantages. But it cannot be denied that today, looking for a new car, hybrids cannot be avoided. to temporarily increase transmission torque and power the on-board electrical system. Each species has its own advantages, each has its own disadvantages. But it cannot be denied that today, looking for a new car, hybrids cannot be avoided. to temporarily increase transmission torque and power the on-board electrical system. Each species has its own advantages, each has its own disadvantages. But it cannot be denied that today, looking for a new car, hybrids cannot be avoided.

Hybrid cars - the biggest benefits

Let's start with the advantages of hybrid cars until we differentiate between different types. First, they are usually significantly more economical than comparable combustion engine versions. Secondly, lower fuel consumption also means lower emissions of toxic compounds. Thirdly, it is difficult to find a better car for the city than a hybrid. On the move, it runs on electricity (and the plug-in, if it has a large enough battery, can only use electricity all day - at least in the spring and summer), usually the hybrid also provides surprisingly smooth system operation and is relatively quiet. Third, during braking (also with the help of the engine), the car recovers energy, which in turn means that experienced drivers will change brake pads and discs less frequently than is usually the case with conventional combustion versions. And finally, fourth - although hybrids usually do not enjoy the privileges of purely electric versions (for example, parking, possible entry into the so-called bus lanes, lack of co-financing upon purchase), from the beginning of 2020 they are subject to preferential excise rates. ... This, in turn, contributed to a certain revision of prices in the showrooms, and may also interest more private importers.

The disadvantages of hybrid cars

But, as you know, not all gold ... it is a hybrid. This type of car also has its drawbacks, which should always be remembered before making a purchase decision. The main problem may appear at the very beginning, since hybrids are usually more expensive than similar combustion versions - especially when it comes to plug-in options. Another issue is the trunk - the cargo space is usually a little less than in the same car without the hybrid drive, because you have to cram the battery somewhere. Hybrids and plug-ins are also heavier than conventional combustion vehicles, and while they have a relatively low center of gravity, they can be less predictable when cornering due to their higher curb weight.