Do plug-in hybrids make sense for a fleet?

A plug-in hybrid can suit a fleet if it gets charged often and most trips fit within its electric range. If it rarely gets plugged in, you're carrying a heavy battery and running on fuel.

Charging decides the cost

Advertised fuel figures assume you start with a charged battery, so they look very low. With a low battery, fuel use is much higher. BYD rates the Sealion 6 at 1.1 L/100km charged and 4.7 L/100km with a low battery.

The calculators ask how often the vehicle gets plugged in, then use both figures.

Real electric range is lower

Most plug-in hybrids quote range on the older NEDC test, which reads high. Our estimates allow about 80% of an NEDC figure and 90% of a WLTP figure. Motoring press tests have found a wider spread, especially on utes, so treat these as a guide.

When a plug-in hybrid suits

• Daily runs close to the electric range, with the vehicle charged at the end of each day
• Regular long trips or heavy towing, which suit a fully electric vehicle less well
• Sites where you can charge overnight

When it doesn't

• Long highway days, where it runs mostly on fuel
• Vehicles that can't be charged regularly
• Short, predictable runs, where a fully electric vehicle may cost less to run

Check your numbers

Compare a plug-in hybrid with your diesel and with a fully electric option in the calculators. These are estimates, and savings aren't guaranteed.