Any responsible new-car buyer can now help drive down harmful emissions that are contributing to the climate crisis.
But the decision-making process has never seemed so tough. Sure, we know we’re on a medium-term journey towards electrification, but it’s one that calls for a variety of technologies along the way.
As you know, zero-emissions EVs have now moved from the niche to the mainstream. Whereas technology leaders like BMW once offered a couple of groundbreaking electric models, now BMW offers a full range of EVs. Buyers like the fact that operating an EV is similar to driving any other modern car and that EV driving has a calmer, quieter, more relaxing character. The cars also showcase futuristic designs and benefit from lower maintenance costs due to fewer moving parts.
Batteries have become more energy-dense and owners are getting smarter about home charging during off-peak hours when electricity is most likely to be renewable. Plus, our nationwide fast-charging network is constantly improving.
Battery capacity is rated in kilowatts per hour. Typical efficiency is 6-8km of travel per kWh, although batteries discharge more slowly at urban speeds and when the air-con is switched off. The government’s Clean Car Discount scheme makes the numbers very attractive for EVs that retail at under $80,000 as these cars qualify for a maximum rebate of $8,625, payable to the buyer upon registration.
For some, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles represent the best of both worlds. PHEVs usually combine a plug-in battery with a petrol engine. They offer a solution that can help people into cleaner, more efficient cars rather than forcing them to hold off switching because they have concerns. New PHEVs that retail for under $80,000 qualify for a Clean Car rebate of $5,750.
The batteries in PHEVs offer a modest (but improving) electric-only range, typically 40-100km. These cars allow day-to-day electric-only running but also make great sense for those doing lots of longer trips. When the battery is depleted, the vehicle seamlessly switches to petrol power and you use the combustion engine until you can plug in again.
Depending on your driving, a PHEV could be a better choice than an EV. Unlike the very large battery packs in pure EVs, PHEV batteries can be used to their full potential more of the time – as long as you’re disciplined about frequent recharging. And there are no issues with range anxiety.
Self-charging hybrids, as popularised by the Toyota Prius, excel around town and in stop-start traffic. You don’t plug in a hybrid as the battery is mostly recharged by energy recovered from braking and deceleration. Many hybrids are also eligible for rebates under the government’s Clean Car programme with various discounts calculated on the CO2 outputs of individual models. In fact, there is support available for all fuel-efficient cars that consume up to around 5.5L/100km.
For this reason, the latest generation of ultra-efficient internal combustion (ICE) petrol cars remains highly relevant. Besides low emissions and outstanding economy, other ICE hallmarks include attractive price points, excellent performance from compact turbocharged engines and slick transmissions. Look no further than the BMW 1 Series and 2 Series ranges for many prime examples.
More info: nzta.govt.nz and rightcar.govt.nz
