How Do They Compare? Hybrid vs Plug-In vs Electric

Confused about the difference between a hybrid, plug-in hybrid (PHEV), and 100% electric vehicle (EV)? You’re not alone — and with more eco-friendly cars entering the New Zealand market every year, it’s important to understand which one fits your lifestyle and driving needs.

At Dave Allen Motors, we’ve made it simple. This guide breaks down how each type works, what it costs to run, and how much you could save on approximately fuel.

⚡ 1. What Is a Hybrid Car (HEV)?

A hybrid electric vehicle (HEV), often called a self-charging hybrid, combines a petrol engine with an electric motor and a battery. The battery charges automatically while you drive — no need to plug in.

How it works:

• Uses electric power during low-speed or stop-start driving

• Switches seamlessly between petrol and electric power

• Charges itself through regenerative braking and the engine

Electric-only range: Short bursts at low speed (approx. 1–2km)
Charging required: ❌ None
Fuel efficiency: ✔️ Excellent

Fuel savings compared to petrol:
A hybrid typically uses 35–50% less fuel than a similar-sized 1.5L petrol car.

• Example:

  • Corolla 1.5L Petrol: ~6.8L/100km

  • Corolla Hybrid: ~4.2L/100km

  • That’s a saving of 2.6L per 100km, or up to $750/year at current NZ fuel prices.

👉 Explore our hybrid cars

🔌 2. What Is a Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV)?

A plug-in hybrid has a larger battery than a standard hybrid and can be recharged via a power point or public EV charger. You can drive short daily distances on electric power alone, and the petrol engine takes over for longer trips.

Electric-only range: ~40–60km
Charging required: ✅ Optional but recommended
Best of both worlds: Drive electric around town, petrol for road trips

Fuel savings: Even better than a hybrid if you regularly drive within the electric range.

Popular NZ models: Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, Toyota Prius Prime, Hyundai Ioniq PHEV

👉 Apply for easy finance on a plug-in hybrid

🔋 3. What Is a Fully Electric Vehicle (EV)?

EVs run entirely on electricity. There’s no petrol engine at all. You plug in to charge at home or at one of NZ’s rapidly growing EV charging stations.

Electric-only range: 200–500km+
Charging required: ✅ Yes
Fuel cost: Extremely low — around $3–$5 per 100km
Emissions: Zero while driving
Maintenance: Very low — no oil changes, fewer moving parts

Popular NZ models: Nissan Leaf, Tesla Model 3, Hyundai Kona Electric

📊 Quick Comparison Table

🇳🇿 Which One Is Right for NZ Drivers?

In New Zealand, your choice depends on how and where you drive:

• Hybrid (HEV): Ideal if you want fuel savings and simplicity with no need for charging

• Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV): Perfect for short commutes with occasional long trips

• Electric (EV): Best if you have regular access to charging and want zero emissions

👉 Curious how self-charging works? Read our guide to how hybrid cars charge themselves

💰 How Much Could You Save?

Let’s say you drive 10,000km per year and petrol is $2.50 per litre:

Estimated Savings: $650 per year
And that’s just on fuel! Over 5 years, you could save $3,250, not including reduced maintenance costs (hybrids often require fewer brake and oil changes).

💡 Want to see how much you could save based on your actual commute? Talk to our team — we’ll run the numbers for you.

📉 Interactive Fuel Savings Calculator

Use the tool below to estimate how much you could save each year by switching to a hybrid, plug-in hybrid, or electric vehicle based on your current petrol usage and driving habits in New Zealand.

🛒 Explore Our Range at Dave Allen Motors

We’re proud to offer one of New Zealand’s best selections of fuel-efficient and eco-friendly vehicles — from hybrids and plug-in hybrids to fully electric cars.

✅ Quality pre-owned stock
✅ Simple car finance options
✅ Expert advice from a hybrid & EV specialist team

👉 View our hybrid vehicle stock
👉 Talk to us today