Thinking about switching to a greener car lease but not sure whether to go fully electric or hybrid? With so many new models being released, it’s never been simpler – or more affordable- to make the switch!
At Car Leasing Made Simple, we offer a huge range of electric and hybrid lease deals from leading brands like Audi, BMW, Mercedes, Polestar, Tesla, Jaguar, Kia, Toyota, Hyundai, and Volkswagen. But which type of car is best for you?
Let’s break it down…
What’s the Difference Between Electric and Hybrid Cars?
When looking at green car leasing, you’ll come across three main types:
1. Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) – Fully Electric
- No petrol, no diesel—just battery power
- Zero emissions, so they’re the most eco-friendly option
- Lowest running costs (electricity is much cheaper than fuel)
- Can drive on average 200-350 miles on a single charge
Best for: People with easy access to home or workplace charging.
2. Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) – A Mix of Battery & Fuel
- Runs on both electric and petrol/diesel
- Short trips (typically 30 miles or less) can be done on battery power alone
- No range anxiety—if the battery runs out, the engine takes over
- Still needs regular charging to maximise fuel savings
Best for: Drivers who want lower emissions but still need a petrol backup for longer trips.
3. Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs) – Self-Charging Hybrids
- Uses a small battery to assist fuel efficiency
- No need to charge—it recharges while driving
- Mostly runs on petrol/diesel, with occasional electric assistance
- Great for stop-start city driving
Best for: Anyone who wants better fuel efficiency without worrying about charging.
Which One is Cheaper to Lease & Run?
When it comes to cost, electric cars and hybrids have different trade-offs.
- Leasing an EV tends to cost more upfront, but the savings on fuel and maintenance quickly add up. Charging is significantly cheaper than filling up with petrol or diesel, and with fewer moving parts, servicing costs are lower too.
- Leasing a hybrid or PHEV is usually cheaper per month, but you’ll still need to budget for fuel and regular servicing, which can make long-term costs higher than you might expect.
If you mostly do short journeys and can charge at home or work, an EV will likely save you more money in the long run. If you drive longer distances or don’t have easy access to charging, a hybrid or PHEV might be the better option for flexibility.
How Far Can You Drive?
- EVs: Most new models offer 200-350 miles per charge. If you regularly drive over 100 miles per trip, look for an EV with a 250+ mile range.
- PHEVs & HEVs: No range worries – they use petrol when the battery runs out.
Long-distance drivers: If you can’t guarantee charging on your route, a hybrid or PHEV may be the safer bet!
Do You Have a Place to Charge?
- EVs & PHEVs need charging – ideally at home or work. Public charging networks are expanding fast, with rapid chargers now available at motorway services, petrol stations, and even supermarkets.
- Hybrids (HEVs) don’t need charging – they self-charge while you drive.
A home charger is the easiest way to keep an EV or PHEV topped up. If you would like to discuss the installation of a EV charger, please click here and complete the form or call us on 01753 878430.
What About Servicing & Maintenance?
- EVs: Cheaper to maintain than hybrids or petrol cars = fewer moving parts mean 30-50% lower servicing costs.
- PHEVs & Hybrids: More complex mechanics = similar servicing costs to petrol/diesel cars.
If you’re worried about maintenance costs, many lease deals include servicing, maintenance, and tyres so you don’t have to stress. Learn more about our Maintenance package here.
Are There Any Tax Benefits or Incentives?
Going electric or hybrid can save you money on tax, especially if you’re leasing for business.
- EVs = lower company car tax – Just 2% Benefit-in-Kind (BIK).
- Salary Sacrifice Schemes – Save up to 40% on your lease payments.
EVs are ULEZ & Congestion Charge exempt – Perfect for city drivers.
Find your perfect green car lease deal here.
Lease a Hybrid if…
- You drive long distances and need a petrol backup
- You don’t have easy access to charging
- You want better fuel efficiency but aren’t ready to go fully electric
Find your perfect hybrid car lease deal here.
Both electric and hybrid leases have their perks, and the right choice depends on how you drive.
- EVs are the cheapest to run, best for tax savings, and the future of driving.
- Hybrids & PHEVs offer more flexibility for those who drive long distances or lack easy charging.
Still unsure? Explore our latest car lease special offers to find the best option for you.