Electric Cars vs Combustion Engine Cars | Which is better for you?

Published Date: 24th Feb 2023

New Electric Car driving on the roadThe automotive industry is experiencing a significant shift towards electric vehicles (EVs), with electric car registrations surging in recent years. In 2022, pure-electric cars were the second best-sellers for the first time, accounting for a 16.6% share of the market, while traditional petrol models still came out on top, representing 42.3% of the market. However, the number of EVs sold is rapidly accelerating, with more models arriving on the market and consumers embracing electrification.

One of the reasons for the shift towards EVs is the increasing concern over environmental issues such as climate change and air pollution. Governments across the globe are encouraging the adoption of electric vehicles by offering incentives, subsidies and tax breaks. In addition, improvements in battery technology have made EVs more practical and affordable for consumers, while advancements in charging infrastructure are making it easier to own and use an EV.

Despite the surge in electric car registrations, most UK car discount customers still prefer traditional petrol models. This is partly due to the convenience and familiarity of petrol-powered cars, which can be refuelled quickly and have a more extended range than most EVs. In addition, petrol cars tend to be cheaper than their electric counterparts, although running costs can be higher in the long term.

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Mild hybrid (MHEV) petrol cars and full hybrid (HEV) petrol models have also gained market share in recent years, as they offer a compromise between petrol and electric power. These cars use a combination of a petrol engine and an electric motor to provide better fuel efficiency and lower emissions than traditional petrol cars. They are also more affordable than pure-electric cars and don't require charging, making them a popular choice for many consumers.

On the other hand, plug-in hybrids have fallen out of favour somewhat, dropping from 7% in 2021 to 6.3% share in 2022. These cars use a petrol engine and an electric motor, but also have a larger battery that can be charged from an external power source. While they offer the best of both worlds regarding range and efficiency, they tend to be more expensive than mild hybrids and can be less practical for some drivers.

Traditional diesel cars saw the most significant drop in registrations last year as many carmakers withdrew "oil burners" to concentrate on electrified models. Mild-hybrid diesel also saw a 26.7% drop in sales. This is due to concerns over the health and environmental impact of diesel emissions, which are known to contribute to air pollution and respiratory diseases. Governments across the globe are imposing stricter regulations on diesel cars, with some cities planning to ban them altogether in the coming years.

 

  • Petrol cars still represent 42.3% of the market, while pure-electric cars make up 16.6% of the market.
  • In 2022, pure-electric cars were the second best-sellers for the first time ever.
  • Traditional petrol models are still more popular than electric cars due to their convenience, extended range, and lower upfront costs.
  • Mild hybrid and full hybrid petrol cars are gaining market share due to their better fuel efficiency and lower emissions compared to traditional petrol cars.
  • Plug-in hybrids are losing market share due to their higher cost and less practicality compared to mild and full hybrids.
  • Diesel cars are falling out of favour due to concerns over emissions and the imposition of stricter regulations.
  • Governments across the globe are encouraging the adoption of electric vehicles through incentives, subsidies and tax breaks.
  • Improvements in battery technology and charging infrastructure are making electric cars more practical and affordable for consumers.
  • As the automotive industry shifts towards electrification, consumers will have more choices than ever before when it comes to buying a car that meets their needs and values.

 

In conclusion, while traditional petrol models still rule the market, electric car registrations are surging and will continue to do so as more models arrive on the market and governments continue incentivising EV adoption. Mild hybrid and full hybrid petrol cars are also gaining popularity as a compromise between petrol and electric power, while plug-in hybrids are losing favour due to their higher cost and less practicality. Traditional diesel cars are falling out of favour due to concerns over emissions and the imposition of stricter regulations. As the automotive industry shifts towards electrification, consumers will have more choices than ever before when it comes to buying a car that meets their needs and values.