Nowadays, it seems like more people are talking about sustainable transportation, and for good reason. With growing concerns about climate change and air quality, businesses and individuals alike are looking for ways to lessen their environmental impact. And when it comes to vehicles, two options stand out: hybrids and fully electric vehicles.
But how do you know which one is right for you?
In this article, we’ll break down the key differences between hybrid and electric vehicles, explore their pros and cons, and ultimately guide you towards the perfect choice for your needs and priorities.
What is an Electric Vehicle?
Electric vehicles are becoming popular in Singapore as a sustainable and efficient mode of transportation. But what exactly are they?
EV is a vehicle that runs entirely on electricity. Instead of having a conventional internal combustion engine, it has an electric motor that’s powered by a rechargeable battery.
When you press the accelerator, the battery sends energy to the motor, which then turns the wheels. Additionally, this process is incredibly quiet. And because electric vehicles produce zero tailpipe emissions, they are a greener option for our roads.
What Are Hybrid Vehicles?
Hybrid vehicles offer a middle ground between traditional petrol-powered cars and fully electric vehicles. Essentially, they combine the best of both worlds by incorporating an internal combustion engine alongside an electric motor and battery.
Plus, this combination allows the vehicle to switch between using petrol and electricity seamlessly or even using both simultaneously, depending on the driving conditions.
For example, at low speeds, the hybrid might get power primarily from the electric motor, reducing fuel consumption and emissions. At higher speeds, the petrol engine takes the reins to provide additional power.
Also, hybrids use regenerative braking to capture energy that would otherwise dissipate during braking, further improving efficiency.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Hybrid vs. Electric Vehicles
To make the best decision for your needs and priorities, you must weigh the pros and cons of hybrid and electric vehicles.
1. Environmental Impact
Electric vehicles have a significant advantage over hybrids when it comes to environmental impact. While hybrids reduce emissions compared to traditional petrol-powered cars, they still rely on fossil fuels for a portion of their operation.
EVs, on the other hand, produce zero tailpipe emissions, contributing to cleaner air and a healthier environment.
2. Performance
If you’re after superior performance, electric vehicles may be the better choice. Electric motors provide immediate torque, resulting in quicker acceleration and a more responsive driving experience.
On the other hand, hybrids, while offering improved fuel efficiency, often lack the same exhilarating performance.
3. Cost Analysis
When considering the cost of EVs vs. hybrids, it’s important to look beyond the initial purchase price. While buying commercial EVs will cost more upfront due to the battery and advanced technology, it offers significant long-term savings.
For instance, charging costs for EVs range from S$0.41 to S$0.59 per kWh, while the average fuel cost is around S$2.55 per litre, varying with market prices. Additionally, fully EVs have lower maintenance costs due to fewer moving parts and the absence of oil changes or transmission fluid flushes.
At the same time, the net savings for the seven-year total cost of ownership for fully electric vehicles can range from S$172 to US$14354, depending on the model.
4. Infrastructure and Scalability
While Singapore’s charging infrastructure is rapidly growing, it still lags behind the widespread availability of petrol stations. However, the government is more than a quarter of the way to achieving its goal of installing 60,000 electric vehicle charging points across the island by 2030, with more than 15,300 charging stations available islandwide as of the end of 2024.
For businesses with large fleets or those requiring electric commercial vehicles for long-distance travel, the availability of charging infrastructure is a crucial factor to consider. However, with the government’s commitment to expanding the charging network, EVs are becoming an increasingly viable option for businesses in Singapore.
Besides, more automobile companies are designing electric vehicles with long driving ranges. One such example is the LEVC VN5, a versatile electric van that boasts an impressive total driving range of up to 513 kilometres.
With LEVC VN5’s extended range, businesses can have the confidence to tackle even the most demanding transportation routes without the worry of running out of charge.
Hybrid vs. Electric: Which Should You Choose?
When it comes to determining whether a hybrid or electric vehicle is the best fit for your operations, you need to consider the following:
1. Business Needs and Vehicle Utilisation
Consider the specific needs of your business, such as the size of your fleet, vehicle utilisation rates, and average trip lengths. For businesses with high daily mileage or long-distance routes, electric trucks with a long driving range, like the SRM T3EV, might be the ideal choice. Besides, this 10-foot electric vehicle boasts a fast-charging capacity from 20% to 80% in just 35 minutes, minimising downtime and maximising efficiency.
On the other hand, if your business primarily operates within the city with shorter routes and frequent stops, a hybrid might offer a good balance of fuel efficiency and range.
2. Governmental and Corporate Incentives
Take advantage of the various governmental and corporate incentives available for adopting EVs. Some examples include the EV Early Adoption Incentive (EEAI), which provides a 45% rebate on newly registered electric vehicles and the Enhanced Early Turnover Scheme (ETS), which rewards businesses for replacing older, more polluting vehicles with cleaner alternatives, including EVs.
3. Future-Proofing Your Fleet
Also, think about the long-term implications of your vehicle choice. With technology rapidly advancing and market shifts favouring EVs, the trend towards electric mobility is undeniable.
By investing in an electric fleet, you’re not just choosing a sustainable option but also future-proofing your business for the years to come.
Embrace the Electric Future
Choosing between hybrid and electric vehicles is a crucial decision when you want to optimise your operations and embrace a sustainable future. But by carefully evaluating your business needs, considering the environmental impact, and taking advantage of available incentives, you can confidently make the switch to electric mobility.
And if you’re ready to transition your fleet to electric, remember that Hong Seh Evolution is your trusted partner. With a wide range of electric commercial vehicles, we can help you electrify your fleet and drive towards a greener tomorrow.
Schedule a test drive today and discover which electric vehicle can meet your business goals.
