Car insurance for hybrids

Hybrid cars refer to vehicles that are powered by an electric motor and an internal combustion engine. They offer better fuel efficiency than traditional petrol or diesel cars as they’ll typically run on electric power until the battery is low, then switch to using fuel. Unlike fully electric vehicles, hybrid cars don’t need to be manually charged, although some vehicles may offer this as an option.

Hybrid cars work like a gas or petrol car, but with an electric motor that that will help power it until the battery runs out and it needs recharging. Whether or not your hybrid car can be fully powered by your electric engine, or simply provide a boost to your main fuel engine, will depend on the type of vehicle you purchase.

Hybrid cars don’t always have to be plugged into charging stations like electric vehicles. Instead, the electric battery is self-charged using kinetic energy from braking that is converted into electricity to charge your battery pack. This is known as regenerative braking.

Using a hybrid car offers numerous benefits, such as reducing your emissions and running costs as these vehicles require less fuel than typical cars.

There are different types of hybrid vehicles you might consider buying:

• Hybrid electric vehicle (HEV). This is a typical hybrid vehicle that runs on a petrol or diesel engine and one (or more) electric motors. It is self-charged through regenerative braking.
• Plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV). Similar to HEVs, these vehicles can also run on battery power provided by regenerative braking. This type of hybrid car can also be charged by plugging it in.
• Mild hybrid electric vehicle (MHEV). These vehicles are similar to a petrol or diesel car, but have a small motor. Unlike other hybrid vehicles, they cannot be powered solely with the electric motor. This only helps to improve the car’s fuel efficiency and performance.

Yes, hybrid cars are generally as safe as diesel or gas cars. They may have a slightly higher fire risk due to their fuel-based engine and high-voltage battery, but this increased risk is relatively minor. They are also heavier than the average vehicle, which can affect handling if you’re not used to it.

All things considered, hybrid cars don’t pose a significant risk compared to their gasoline-only counterparts. They may also be fitted with safety features to protect you in an accident.

Yes, it’s possible to get a car insurance policy for your hybrid car. Compulsory Third Party (CTP) insurance (or Green Slip if you live in NSW) is mandatory insurance that is included in your registration fee in most states. It covers you if you injure another person, but it does not protect your car. There are additional levels of cover that you can purchase to protect your hybrid car.

• Third Party Property Damage. This covers someone else’s car or property that you damage in an accident but does not cover your vehicle.
• Third Party Fire and Theft. Along with cover for third party property damage, you’re also covered for damages to your own vehicle caused by fire and theft.
• Comprehensive car insurance. Comprehensive cover can provide cover for damage to your vehicle, and vehicles and property belonging to third parties, when you’re at fault in an accident.

Before choosing a car insurance policy read the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) for the full details of the inclusions, exclusions and limits of the policy. To understand whether a policy suits your circumstances, read the Target Market Determination (TMD).

The good news is ‘hybrid car insurance’ isn’t a standalone product that you can buy, so you won’t need a special car insurance policy if your car is a hybrid model. A regular comprehensive car insurance policy can offer you comprehensive cover in case your car is damaged, or you damage another person’s car or property. It’s still a good idea to compare car insurance quotes when looking for a policy, as prices will vary between car insurance providers.

Your hybrid car may be more expensive to insure compared to a diesel or petrol car. The reason for the average hybrid car insurance cost to be higher than regular cars is due to a few factors, including:

• Hybrid cars often cost more to buy than a similar sized petrol or diesel car, which can increase premiums.
• Hybrids are less common than petrol or diesel cars and involve multiple engines, so it’s typically more expensive to source certain parts (e.g. if you need a new battery) and may require specialised labour.

Other factors that may affect the cost of your car insurance may include:

• Your driving history
• Your claims history
• The make and model of your car
• How often you drive
• Where you park
• Your excess
• If you’re eligible for any car insurance discounts.