Plug-in Hybrid Leasing Guide

What is a plug-in hybrid car?

A plug-in hybrid car (PHEV) combines a traditional petrol or diesel engine with an electric motor and a battery that can be recharged by plugging into an external power source. Unlike full hybrids, which only recharge their batteries through regenerative braking and the engine, plug-in hybrids can run on electric power alone for short distances, offering the benefits of both electric and combustion driving. PHEVs provide greater fuel efficiency, especially for short trips, while retaining the convenience of a conventional engine for longer journeys.

How does a plug-in hybrid compare to a full hybrid?

The key difference between a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and a full hybrid lies in how they use electricity:

• Electric Range: Plug-in hybrids have larger batteries and can drive longer distances on electric power alone, often between 20 and 50 miles. Full hybrids have smaller batteries and rely more on the petrol engine, with limited electric-only driving capability.
• Charging: PHEVs need to be plugged in to recharge their batteries, while full hybrids recharge through regenerative braking and the internal combustion engine, meaning they never need to be plugged in.
• Fuel Efficiency: PHEVs can deliver better fuel efficiency for short trips, as they can run entirely on electric power. Full hybrids switch between electric and petrol power more frequently, providing better efficiency than petrol cars but less than PHEVs on short journeys.
• Cost: Plug-in hybrids tend to have higher upfront costs due to their larger battery and electric components. However, they offer more savings on fuel and emissions, especially for daily commutes or short urban trips.

What are the benefits of leasing a plug-in hybrid?

Leasing a plug-in hybrid offers several advantages for drivers:

• Lower Running Costs: PHEVs can significantly reduce fuel costs by running on electric power for short trips, especially when charged at home using off-peak electricity tariffs.
• Tax Benefits: Plug-in hybrids typically have lower CO₂ emissions than petrol or diesel cars, leading to lower road tax and Benefit-in-Kind (BIK) rates for business users.
• Environmental Impact: PHEVs produce fewer emissions, making them a greener option for those looking to reduce their environmental footprint without fully committing to an electric vehicle.
• Flexibility: With the ability to switch between electric and petrol power, plug-in hybrids offer greater flexibility for long trips, ensuring you don’t need to worry about charging infrastructure.
• Access to New Technology: Leasing allows you to drive the latest PHEV models with advanced features and improved fuel efficiency without the long-term commitment of ownership.

What are the best plug-in hybrids to lease in the UK?

Some of the best plug-in hybrids available for leasing in the UK include:

• BMW 330e: A popular choice for both personal and business use, offering a blend of performance, efficiency, and luxury, with an electric range of up to 37 miles.
• Volvo XC60 Recharge: A spacious SUV with a premium feel and a fully electric range of up to 32 miles, ideal for families or long-distance commuters.
• Ford Kuga PHEV: A practical and affordable SUV, providing an electric range of up to 35 miles, making it a strong choice for families or business fleets.
• Kia Sorento PHEV: A seven-seater SUV with a solid electric range of around 35 miles, perfect for larger families needing space and flexibility.
• Toyota RAV4 Plug-In Hybrid: A reliable and efficient SUV offering an electric range of up to 46 miles, ideal for eco-conscious families and commuters.

These plug-in hybrids provide a balance of efficiency, flexibility, and practicality, making them excellent choices for those looking to lease a hybrid vehicle.