Having the choice of what fuel type your car can be is certainly a new one. In times gone by there was little choice, simply between a diesel or petrol car. And your decision may well have been based on price or mileage. However, as times have changed and our society is leaning towards the adoption of greener alternatives, drivers now have a far greater choice when it comes to deciding on fuel type.
From traditional ICE models to hybrids and electrics, as well as self-charging, and plug-in hybrids. Some of these terms certainly may throw you. Putting you in a position of uncertainty. If you’re thinking about upgrading your vehicle but don’t know what to choose, this blog should help you clear any confusion you may have about the difference between fuel types and which would be best for you.
Petrol and Diesel Engines
While traditional petrol and diesel models are much cheaper than newer fuel types to buy upfront, they are susceptible to the fluctuations of the unpredictable fuel market. Meaning they are often more expensive to run in the long-term. However, while there is a great deal of encouragement to move away from both petrol and diesel fuel types due to their environmental impact, they still of course continue to offer their own benefits to individual drivers.
While the world is slowly adapting to the transition towards electric vehicles, diesel and petrol remains to be the most accessible fuel type. With the infrastructure already in place to make the supply readily available.
Petrol remains one of the best options for drivers who tend to make shorter journeys. Travelling short distances, usually local work commutes, school drop-offs and the occasional long-distance journey. While a diesel vehicle is far more suited to drivers who completely regulate long journeys. Due to the price of diesel and its overall impact on the environment, it is usually only recommended for commercial vehicles, such as fleets.
Hybrid Vehicles
Hybrids are slightly less straightforward and often cause some confusion amongst drivers. For those who have never driven a hybrid model before, they simply combine two types of power in order to run. This can be a combination of either petrol or diesel with the support of electric power. Hybrid vehicles have become more popular in recent years since they have much lower fuel consumption, making them a great cost-effective alternative for a traditional combustion engine. Consuming less fuel also means they are much more environmentally friendly, which is ideal for drivers who are hoping to eventually switch to greener modes of transport.
One thing to note is that a hybrid vehicle is usually more expensive to buy outright. Which is why a great way to access this type of vehicle is to consider a car leasing contract. Allowing you access to a wide range of hybrid vehicles with more affordable monthly payments. You can take a look at the many hybrid lease deals we have at All Car Leasing here.
What makes hybrids slightly more confusing is the many types of hybrid vehicles available. The jargon can certainly make it harder to understand what is what.
Mild Hybrids
A mild hybrid refers to a hybrid vehicle where the electric power provides a simple boost to the traditional combustion engine, whether this is a petrol or diesel engine. The electric power will kick in at times where fuel consumption would normally increase. Such as acceleration from stationary to a hill start. Mild hybrids do not require the use of charging points and instead will use normal fuel from a petrol station.
Self-charging hybrid
A self-charging hybrid, also known as a full hybrid, will switch between the power of its petrol or diesel engine and the electric motor. However the electric motor will only typically kick in when it is the most efficient time to do so. Some models will even show you on the interior display, so you can see when you are saving on fuel. There is no need to charge a self-charging hybrid with a plug, which makes it an affordable alternative for many drivers.
Plug-in hybrid
A plug-in hybrid is far more reliant on the electric power provided by the small battery pack and the electric motor. During short journeys they will use all the electric power that is available before running out and falling back onto the traditional engine to continue the journey. Of course, with this comes this requirement to use an electric charger. However, with this addition they are a great option for drivers who are ready to make a bigger jump to an all electric vehicle and save a lot of money on fuel.
All-electric
Coming in at much higher upfront costs, is the all-electric vehicle. For now they reign as the winner of the most environmentally friendly fuel type. Providing an economical and enjoyable driver experience without CO2 emissions. However, it is a requirement that all-electric vehicles are charged using an electric charging point. Which, for now, isn't easy to come by in the UK, and you will of course need to install one at home too. While there are many associated costs, however, they are exceptionally advanced cars and are only set to get better and better. With technology advancing year on year, we anticipate that in time, there will be an all-electric vehicle takeover on the roads of Britain.
One of the best ways to find the fuel type that works best for you and try a range of makes and models is to opt for a car leasing contract. Allowing you the opportunity to access a wide range of fuel types on monthly payments within your budget. Over time you will also be able to upgrade your vehicle, trialling different models and experiencing the benefits of modern designs. Find the best car leasing deal for you today from All Car Leasing.