Hybrid Vehicle Insurance: Everything You Need to Know

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Hybrid vehicles are becoming more popular in the UK. Many drivers want options that save fuel and are good for the environment. Insuring a hybrid car is not the same as getting standard car insurance.

What is a Hybrid Car?

A hybrid car uses a petrol or diesel engine along with an electric motor. This combination saves fuel, reduces emissions, and offers better mileage than regular cars.

There are three main types of hybrid vehicles:

  • Mild Hybrids: In these cars, the electric motor works with the engine. It cannot run the car alone.
  • Full Hybrids (FHEVs): This type of car can run on the petrol or diesel engine, the electric motor, or a mix of both.
  • Plug-in Hybrids (PHEVs): These cars have larger batteries. You can charge them at an external charging point, allowing you to drive longer using just electricity.

Is Hybrid Car Insurance Different from Standard Car Insurance?

Hybrid car insurance provides the same essential coverage as regular car insurance. Still, there are important differences between them.

  • Higher Repair Costs: Hybrid cars use complex electrical systems and batteries. Fixing or replacing these can be expensive.
  • Specialist Repairs: Many garages do not repair hybrid vehicles. This could raise repair costs and impact insurance claims.
  • Theft Risk: The batteries in hybrid cars have valuable materials. This makes them a target for theft.
  • Environmental Benefits: Some insurance companies offer discounts to hybrid and electric car owners. This is because these cars create less pollution.

Comparison of Hybrid Car Insurance vs Standard Car Insurance

Feature Hybrid Car Insurance Standard Car Insurance
Repair Costs Higher due to specialist parts and labour Generally lower for common petrol/diesel cars
Battery Cover May need to be added separately Not applicable
Theft Risk High (batteries contain valuable materials) Standard risk
Availability of Repairs Limited garages can repair hybrid systems Most garages can service and repair
Discounts Available Some insurers offer eco-friendly discounts Fewer specific discounts
Breakdown Cover Considerations Requires specialist towing services Standard breakdown cover applies

How Much Does Hybrid Car Insurance Cost in the UK?

The cost of hybrid car insurance depends on several factors. These factors include the type of car you have, the insurer you select, and the level of cover you require.

Car Type Estimated Annual Premium (£)
Mild Hybrid £400 - £800
Full Hybrid £500 - £900
Plug-in Hybrid £600 - £1,000
How Much Does Hybrid Car Insurance Cost in the UK

Hybrid insurance rates are usually a little higher than those for petrol or diesel cars. This is mainly because repairs for hybrids can be more expensive. However, you can reduce these rates if you have a no-claims discount or good security features on your vehicle.

What Factors Affect Hybrid Car Insurance Premiums?

Many factors influence the cost of a hybrid car insurance policy.

  1. Car Type and Value: Insuring an expensive car or a plug-in hybrid can cost you more.
  2. Battery Cover: Hybrid cars require special battery covers. This helps prevent issues or breakdowns.
  3. Annual Mileage: Driving more miles may increase your insurance costs. However, driving less can help you save money.
  4. Level of Cover: Comprehensive insurance plans give you the best protection. But they might cost more than basic third-party insurance.
  5. Security Features: Adding alarms and immobilisers, and using safe parking spots can lower your insurance rates.
  6. Driver Profile: Younger and less experienced drivers usually have to pay more for insurance.

Are Hybrid Cars Cheaper to Insure Than Petrol or Diesel Cars?

Hybrid car insurance is often not cheaper than insurance for petrol or diesel cars. This is due to several reasons:

  • Replacing batteries is very expensive.
  • Repairs require special mechanics.
  • Some insurance companies view hybrids as high-risk.

Hybrid cars often have lower road tax, government rewards, and save on fuel. This means they can be more affordable over time.

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Does Hybrid Car Insurance Cover Battery Replacement?

Hybrid car insurance policies may or may not cover the battery. A new hybrid battery can cost between £1,500 and £6,000. It’s important to check if your policy covers accidental damage, fire, and battery theft. Some insurance providers also offer extended battery warranties you can add.

Do Hybrid Cars Qualify for Discounts on Insurance?

Some insurance companies offer discounts for hybrid cars. Here are a few examples:

  • Lower prices for eco-friendly cars
  • Savings for hybrid drivers who drive less
  • Discounts for drivers with a good record who do not make claims

Adding a black box insurance policy can help safe drivers save money.

What is the Best Level of Cover for a Hybrid Car

What is the Best Level of Cover for a Hybrid Car?

The right level of cover depends on what each person requires. Still, most drivers choose:

  1. Comprehensive Cover: This plan protects you from accidental damage, fire, theft, and includes necessary repairs.
  2. Third-Party, Fire, and Theft: This plan covers damage to other cars. It also protects against fire and theft of your own vehicle.
  3. Third-Party Only: This plan provides coverage for damage to other people but does not protect your car.

Comprehensive cover is usually the best choice. It protects your battery cover. It also covers breakdowns and helps with legal costs.

How to Reduce the Cost of Hybrid Car Insurance

There are several ways to cut down your hybrid car insurance cost:

  • Raise your voluntary excess. This means you agree to pay more if you have to make a claim, which can lower your insurance costs.
  • Cut down your mileage. Driving less each year can help you save money on insurance.
  • Pick a smaller hybrid car. Larger or high-performance hybrids usually cost more to insure.
  • Boost your security. Adding an immobiliser or parking in a secure area can reduce your insurance costs.
  • Search for policies specifically for hybrid cars. Some insurance providers offer special plans just for hybrid models.

Are Hybrid Cars Eligible for Breakdown Cover?

Yes, you can get breakdown cover for hybrid cars. Just make sure the policy includes:

  • Battery help – Some services offer emergency charging for hybrid cars.
  • Towing help – Hybrid cars often need special towing services.
  • Roadside help – This is for sudden breakdowns.

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Do Charging Points Affect Insurance?

For plug-in hybrids, where you charge your car may affect your insurance rates.

  • Home charging points – Safe home charging can lower insurance risks since it is off the road.
  • Public charging points – If you often use these, your insurance rates could go up due to theft or vandalism risks.
  • Workplace charging stations – Some insurance companies offer discounts to employees who use special charging points.

What Should You Look for in a Hybrid Car Insurance Policy?

When considering hybrid car insurance policies, keep these ideas in mind:

  • A battery cover keeps you safe from damage or theft.
  • Accidental damage cover pays for costly repairs.
  • Breakdown cover is crucial for drivers of plug-in hybrids.
  • Uninsured driver protection helps if you have an accident with someone without insurance.
  • A policy that covers all risks gives you peace of mind.

Correct as of 14 March 2025

What Should You Look for in a Hybrid Car Insurance Policy

FAQs About Hybrid Car Insurance

Yes, hybrid cars could have higher insurance costs. This is due to their advanced parts, which can be expensive to fix. But you can offset this by paying less in road tax and saving money on fuel.

You can save money on your insurance by finding the best deals. You can also increase your voluntary excess and use security features.

Some insurance plans will cover charging cables. However, it's smart to check with your insurer. If your cables get stolen or accidentally damaged, you may need additional coverage.

Hybrid vehicles typically pay less road tax than petrol or diesel cars. This is due to the fact that they emit less CO₂.

Not always. Many popular UK insurers offer hybrid car insurance. But, some specialised insurers may provide better coverage choices.

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Page last updated on: 22/05/2025

Page reviewed by: Shay Ramani

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