Once upon a time owning a hybrid car was unusual. However, in the last few years, hybrid cars have been gaining momentum in the market and many are making the switch, in some part thanks to the generous government incentives for low-emission vehicles. From taxi drivers to van drivers and everyone in between – hybrid cars are becoming the most popular choice.
Here’s why you should consider hybrid cars for your taxi fleet and some maintenance tips.
Why should I switch to hybrid?
Combining a traditional petrol engine with an electric motor, a hybrid car is somewhat of a halfway house between a traditional diesel-guzzling car and an electric vehicle. One of the main reasons they have gained popularity of late is due to their environmental benefits. With combustion engine cars to be banned by 2030, many have been making the switch ahead of time.
As well as being a green alternative, hybrid cars are also very fuel efficient, meaning they save you money in the long run as well as road tax. If that wasn’t enough, they also experience less depreciation and are extremely comfortable to drive.
How to maintain a hybrid car
If you’ve made the decision to go hybrid, you’ll need to know how to maintain your new vehicle. This is especially important if you have a fleet of taxis or commercial vehicles to look after.
1. Carry out routine engine checks
Although a shiny new hybrid is likely to cost less in maintenance, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t carry out routine checks. By keeping on top of routine checks, you can avoid nasty surprises and costly repairs. A quick once-over can save you a big headache in the long run!
2. Get an experienced hybrid car technician
As hybrid cars are relatively new to the market, not all technicians will be familiar with the ins and outs of hybrid cars, so it’s best to ensure you have the right person for the job. As hybrid cars have more complex wiring systems, it’s important to look out for an experienced hybrid technician to help maintain your fleet.
3. Use the right oil
If you have a hybrid vehicle, you’ll want to make sure you’re using the right oil. Usually, lower weight oils work best to keep your car running optimally.
4. Don’t worry about the battery
The good news for non-technical folk is that the battery of a hybrid car is unlikely to fail– although not impossible! Hybrid car batteries are designed to be maintenance-free, and many are backed up by the manufacturers warranty for extra piece of mind.
Although, you’ll want to make sure your technician can run the odd check if needed.
The bottom line is that if you’re thinking of switching to a hybrid fleet, the good news is that they are relatively easy (and cheap!) to maintain. Whilst you’ll want to make sure that you have the right technician on hand and the right oils, performing a quick check on your hybrid vehicle is all it needs to keep it in good condition. With easy maintenance and cheap running costs, it’s easy to see why hybrid cars are now so popular.
