Which hybrid cars are SA consumers most likely to buy?
Load-shedding might discourage people to invest in electrically powered cars, so many consider hybrids to offer better value. We have a closer look at some here.
World Environment Day, held annually on June 5, brings together millions of people from across the globe. This year marks the event’s 50th anniversary, and the focus will be on efforts to protect and restore the Earth.
Owning and driving a hybrid car is one way to achieve this because they generate reduced emissions compared to traditional vehicles with internal combustion engines. But which is the hybrid car that South African consumers are most likely to buy?
An analysis of data from January 1 to April 30, 2023, reveals that the Toyota Corolla Cross generates the most enquiries and is therefore the hybrid that consumers are most likely to buy. It is listed on AutoTrader for an average price of R512 019 with an average mileage of 10 791km and an average year of registration of 2022. It generates a mere 98g/km of CO2 emissions. Its sibling, the Toyota Corolla (average price R473 758, average mileage 14 482km, and average year of registration of 2022), is slightly kinder on the environment, generating only 81g/km.
There is no correlation between the purchase price of vehicles and the emissions they generate. For instance, the Volvo XC90, which is listed for an average price of R951 102, with an average mileage of 51 557km and with an average year of registration of 2019, emits a mere 49g/km.
The first series-produced plug-in hybrid sports car, the BMW i8, also emits a mere 49g/km. It is listed on AutoTrader at an average price of R1 236 832, with an average mileage of 37 934km and with an average year of registration of 2017. Launched back in 2014, the i8 was a true environmental trailblazer. For instance, it has all-wheel drive (the combustion engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology provides power to the rear wheels, while the electric motor drives the front wheels). Plus, this hybrid sports car can reach speeds of up to 120km/h in pure electric mode – meaning it is generating zero emissions.
The i8 has been discontinued by BMW, but it will never be forgotten by motorists who are passionate about saving the planet.
Source: Nikki Chennells / Photos: QuickPic
