Fact vs Fiction: What You Really Need to Know About Hybrid Cars

Hybrid cars are no longer niche. In 2023 alone, over 15,000 hybrid units were sold in the Philippines, which is a sharp rise compared to previous years. With fuel prices constantly fluctuating and climate change top of mind, it's no surprise more Filipinos are considering hybrids.

But with new tech comes old myths. In this article, we clear the air by busting the most common misconceptions about hybrid cars, especially in the context of Philippine roads, traffic, and weather.

❓ Hybrid cars are weak and underpowered.

✅ FACT: Hybrids offer instant torque and great city performance.

One of the biggest misconceptions about hybrids is that they're sluggish or slow, but the opposite is often true. Hybrid cars are equipped with electric motors that deliver instant torque the moment you press the accelerator. This gives them an edge in city driving conditions, especially in stop-and-go traffic where gas-only engines need time to build up power. You'll feel the difference when overtaking, pulling out of tight corners, or climbing flyovers — all while using less fuel.

Modern hybrid systems are also smarter. They optimize the use of electric power at low speeds and seamlessly switch to gasoline when more performance is needed. For example, the Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid may only produce 121 horsepower on paper, but its electric motor provides a responsiveness that many drivers say feels "zippier" than similar gasoline-only SUVs.

❓ Hybrids are too expensive to maintain.

✅ FACT: Maintenance costs are manageable, and often lower in the long run.

While hybrids do have a more complex powertrain, they're actually designed to reduce wear on the parts that typically cost you the most. Because the electric motor takes over during idling or low-speed cruising, your engine and brakes don't work as hard — which means fewer oil changes, less brake pad replacement, and overall less wear and tear. Over time, this can lead to real savings in maintenance.

Hybrid battery replacement is a common concern, but here's the truth: most hybrid batteries last 8–10 years, and carmakers like Toyota, Honda, and Nissan offer extensive battery warranties of up to 8 years or 160,000 km. The cost of hybrid batteries has also decreased significantly, and local servicing support is now widely available. As more hybrid units hit Philippine roads, more dealerships are stocking parts and training mechanics, making maintenance less of a hassle than it once was.

❓ You need to plug hybrids into a wall socket.

✅ FACT: Most hybrids in the Philippines are self-charging, but plug-in charging is ideal for some models.

Most hybrid cars on Philippine roads today are self-charging. They don't need wall sockets or charging stations because they recharge through regenerative braking and the gas engine while you drive. This makes them incredibly convenient for everyday use. Just gas up like usual, and the system takes care of the battery.

However, if you're driving a plug-in hybrid (PHEV), like some newer imported models, plugging in regularly is key to maximizing your fuel savings and electric range. While PHEVs can still run without charging, doing so reduces their efficiency. Thankfully, EV charging infrastructure in the Philippines is growing fast. Malls, condos, and public garages are starting to offer charging stations, and you can now use apps to locate them, making regular charging more realistic than ever.

❓ Hybrids aren't built for long drives or provincial use.

✅ FACT: Hybrids perform just as well as regular cars, even on road trips.

Some drivers assume hybrids are only meant for short city commutes, but they're actually well-suited for provincial drives and highway cruising. Hybrid cars are designed to switch seamlessly between electric and gasoline power depending on the driving situation. On the highway, where speeds are consistent, the engine does most of the work — just like a regular car — while the electric motor assists when needed for overtaking or sudden acceleration.

You'll still get excellent fuel economy on long trips, especially if your hybrid includes features like adaptive cruise control and eco-driving modes. In fact, many fuel-savvy car owners report fuel savings of up to 50%, even with long daily routes from Cavite to Makati or Manila to Pampanga. Plus, hybrids tend to have quieter cabins and smoother rides, which makes them great for road trips.

❓ Hybrids break down in floods.

✅ FACT: They're built with waterproofing — but flooding is risky for any vehicle.

It's easy to worry about electric components in a country where flooding is common. But the truth is, hybrid vehicles from major brands are built with high standards of waterproofing and insulation to protect both the battery and the electrical system. In most cases, they're no more vulnerable to floods than traditional gasoline vehicles.

However, that doesn't mean you should drive through high water. Like all vehicles, hybrids are still susceptible to flood damage if water reaches engine level or enters the cabin. Ground clearance matters more here than powertrain, so check specs before buying, especially if you live in flood-prone areas. For example, the Corolla Cross Hybrid has 161mm of ground clearance, which is decent for city driving but may not be ideal for wading through deep floods in low-lying areas.

❓ Hybrids don't really help the environment.

✅ FACT: Every hybrid contributes to lower emissions and cleaner air.

Even if you're not an eco-warrior, there are clear benefits to driving a hybrid. Compared to gas-only cars, hybrids produce significantly less tailpipe emissions, which helps reduce air pollution, especially in dense, traffic-heavy cities like Metro Manila. According to Clean Air Asia, road transport contributes up to 65% of total air pollution in urban areas of the Philippines.

Every hybrid on the road helps bring those numbers down. On average, hybrids emit 20–35% less CO₂, depending on the driving style and model. That means if more Filipinos switch to hybrids, we'll see cleaner air, quieter streets, and even better public health outcomes in the long run.

Are there tax perks or coding exemptions for hybrids in PH?

Yes — and more are expected. Under the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act (EVIDA), hybrids may enjoy coding exemptions in select cities like Pasig and Makati. While full tax perks mainly apply to battery EVs, hybrids are still eligible for reduced excise taxes and easier import terms under government green mobility initiatives.

As more policies are finalized in the coming years, hybrids may soon gain more incentives, making now a smart time to invest before prices increase again.

So…Is a Hybrid Worth It in the Philippines?

If you spend a lot of time in traffic, want to cut fuel costs, or are just looking to future-proof your next car, a hybrid is worth serious consideration. Today's hybrid cars are practical, efficient, and increasingly well-supported here in the Philippines. With more models arriving from Toyota, Honda, Geely, and even BYD, there's a growing list of options at different price points and styles.

Whether you're a city commuter, a Grab driver, or a car enthusiast looking to save on gas, a hybrid offers real advantages without requiring a lifestyle overhaul. It's not just an eco-friendly move, it's a smart one for everyday Filipino drivers.