British drivers have shown a stronger preference for hybrid cars, despite the Labour Government pushing for more electric vehicles.
A recent report by AA Cars revealed that motorists are nearly four times more likely to choose a petrol or diesel hybrid as their next vehicle rather than an electric option.
This surprising trend comes as the UK Government continues to promote the transition to zero-emission vehicles.
The survey found that more than a quarter (27 per cent) of drivers are considering buying a hybrid vehicle, compared to just seven per cent of drivers who intend to go fully electric.
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Hybrid car sales rose by more than a third
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This preference for hybrids is reflected in recent sales figures with the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders revealing that new hybrid car sales rose by more than a third (36 per cent) year-on-year in August, while battery electric vehicle sales increased by a more modest 11 per cent.
The growing popularity of hybrid vehicles extends to the second-hand market as well with the average price of popular used electric and hybrid vehicles in the UK dropping by 19 per cent in Q2 2024 compared to the same period last year.
Hybrids dominate the list of most popular used cars on the AA Cars platform with the Toyota Yaris, Toyota Prius, and Honda Jazz topping the rankings.
James Hosking, Director of AA Cars said: “Hybrids are a popular car for drivers looking to reduce their environmental impact without fully committing to electric cars.”
He added: “These vehicles blend traditional combustion engines with electric power, offering an accessible middle ground for those transitioning to a greener mode of transport.
“Hybrids also serve as an easy introduction to electric technology, helping drivers gain confidence before fully switching to EVs.
“As more electric models become available in both the new and used car markets, and charging networks expand, the demand for eco-friendly vehicles will continue to rise.”
These trends suggest that while interest in fully electric vehicles is growing, many drivers are opting for hybrid technology as a stepping stone towards greener transport.
The trend towards hybrid vehicles also reflects a cautious approach by British consumers in the transition to greener transport.
The push for more electric cars comes as the UK looks to meet net-zero goals by 2030. Under this plan, at least 22 per cent of all new car sales will need to be electric this year.
While fully electric vehicles are gaining ground, hybrids can offer a familiar driving experience with reduced environmental impact, AA cars explained.
The expansion of charging infrastructure across the UK could encourage more drivers to make the switch to fully electric vehicles.
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Hybrid cars can remain on roads until 2035
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Hybrid cars have also been allowed to remain on sale in the UK until 2035 despite their counterparts, diesel and petrol cars being banned by 2030.
Last week Helen Whately, the Tory Shadow Transport Secretary, claimed that the new Labour Government “either didn’t know what they were committing to” in its manifesto “or have now realised it isn’t possible”.
Whately said: “This new plan is the worst of both worlds. It doesn’t do much to drive down emissions and it’s moving too fast for businesses and motorists.
“Labour spent years in opposition telling everyone they’d give businesses certainty, but they’re backsliding within months. This dithering creates a huge headache for manufacturers and ultimately hurts economic growth.”
